Community Profile

Olivetan Benedictine Sisters, Holy Angels Convent Sister Mary Clare Bezner, O.S.B. Vocation Directress P.O. Box 130 Jonesboro, AR 72403-0130 870-273-6872 HACvocations@yahoo.com www.olivben.org

Community Information

No. in community (professed members) 41 Year founded 1887 Generalate/ motherhouse Jonesboro, AR Province/federation Represented in US (Arch)dioceses Little Rock, AR; Fort Worth, TX

About Us

Mission statement/description The sisters are a community of monastic women who seek God through prayer and work in the Olivetan Benedictine tradition. Accordingly, they proclaim Jesus Christ and the Gospel message through their service to each other in community, hospitality, health care, education and other apostolic works. Qualifications for entry A woman in good health who seeks union with God with all the love of her heart, through the Benedictine way of life in the Sacraments, community prayer, community life, and the vows of obedience, poverty, celibate chastity, stability and reformation of life. Formation program The time of formation consists of six months postulancy, 18 months novitiate and four years in temporary vows before perpetual profession. Formation consists of classes in Benedictine spirituality including prayer, Scripture and liturgy, the teachings of the Church, and Church history and the history of the community. There are college courses for those not yet finished with the professional preparation. Formation encompasses the total person allowing for growth in prayer, silence, community living and sharing with others through various community apostolates. “The goal is the formation of women who know who they are and who they are called to be, ever seeking God; who know their strengths and weaknesses; who know they are good because God has gifted them; who want to share, giving and receiving from others: who give life and hope; who truly love Benedictine monastic life.” (From their Constitution) Age range/limit 18-50 Consider belated vocations? Yes Belated/late vocations explanation Considered on an individual basis: If in good health, no outstanding debts, and approved by the Council and Prioress.