The splendor of truth shines forth in all the works of the Creator and, in a special way, in man, created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gen 1:26). Truth enlightens man’s intelligence and shapes his freedom, leading him to know and love the Lord. Hence the Psalmist prays: “Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord” (Ps 4:6).

by St. John Paul II, Veritatis Splendor, #1

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Blessed Epiphany!  Like the three kings that traveled from afar to adore the King, Our Lord Jesus, let us offer the gift of our hearts to Him with humility, awe and deep gratitude.  God became human and dwelt among us in order for us to know how to truly love one another.  This surrender to God in love is the Way to true peace in our hearts and in all the world.

The Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration at Our Lady of Solitude Monastery in Tonopah last month on December 12th were graced with a special event: the Perpetual Profession of Vows of Sister John-Mark Maria Schaefer, PCPA.  On the Patronal Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Sister John-Mark Maria professed Vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience until death.  As a Bride of Christ, she surrendered herself completely to be configured to her Spouse Who became poor, chaste and obedient, perfectly obedient to the will of God the Father.  By God’s providence, just two years ago, Mother Marie Andre Campbell, PCPA recommended me to read a book for spiritual reading.  I recommend to all of you as well:

Book of the Month

Into Your Hands, Father:  Abandoning Ourselves to the God Who Loves Us

by Fr. Wilfrid Stinissen, OCD

“To content oneself with doing one’s “daily duties” is an immature Christianity.  Each moment comes with its own “duty” or, rather, its own task:  an invitation from God to do something definite.  De Caussade says one should be like a hand on a clock that is always moving and at every second takes up exactly the space it should occupy.  There is not a moment in life when we can say:  this is an instant God has forgotten, an empty moment.” (Stinissen, 50)

The Mass and Liturgy for the Final Profession of Vows of Sister John-Mark was glorious!  I would like to share some photos of this unforgettable and grace-filled Vows ceremony:

What a wonderful day it was for all, especially for Sister John-Mark!  Thanks be to God!

On March 4, 2017, the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration are having a Desert Nun Run!  You do not want to miss this great event.  (Click on the link above for more information).

The Nun Run is an annual fundraising event to support Our Lady of Solitude Monastery and the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in the Diocese of Phoenix. This race is for the novice runner and the competitive racer alike. It is a family-friendly event.

The Nun Run is their biggest annual fundraiser… and the most successful, thanks to YOU! Your participation is greatly appreciated! Your support moves them one step closer to realizing their dream of building a cloistered monastery in the heart of the Arizona desert.

Merry Little Christmas and Happy New Year!

Your Sister in Christ,

Sister Anthony Mary Diago, RSM