Benefit Concert

Dear all,

I realise that it has been a while since you have all heard from me. I apologise for my silence :)

Anyway, I wanted to write a little bit about the benefit concert we just had here in St. Louis. It was truly a community event as each one of us had our roles, and it brought me so much joy to see each person's creativity and gifts shine. Theresa designed stunning fliers and programs, Jackie and Cheryl spent many creative hours putting together a beautiful video of our life here as postulants, Laura helped so much with everything from finding the right music for the video to delivering fliers, calming me down, moving the piano, making us laugh (she brings so much joy and laughter to our community), and helping with the set-up of the hall for the concert and reception. Also, all the postulants helped me so much in the weeks leading up to the concert by taking over some of my bookcenter and cleaning duties so that I could practice. Community life is so beautiful and I am always taught and inspired so much by the generosity and care of all the sisters and postulants here. I realise in all that I wrote above that I didn't mention Sr. Rebecca or the other sisters, when actually each sister had their own role in helping to prepare for this concert so it was truly a joint effort. I can say that it was a blessed evening. We had a wonderful, warm audience. It was such a gift to see so many of our friends there as well as some new people. They created such a joyful atmosphere and it helped to calm my nerves. It is always very nerve-wracking to play for people you know and care about because you want to give them the best that you can. It is kind of like choosing a birthday gift for a very close friend. You want so much to give them the perfect gift. So I was very nervous that evening, but it didn't take long for the audience to calm me down :) For me, I always pray before a concert that I may be solely an instrument for the Lord; that my heart and whole being may be open to give; to be His hands and His heart. I pray also for the audience that they may be open to receive His presence, His love, and whatever it is that the Lord wishes to give them. Music to me is a prayer. It can often reach deeper than words can, and it communicates often more than we know how to in words. It is a gift, and my mother and I were grateful to be able to share this gift with all who came.

Thanks for reading :) and know that we keep you all in our prayers,

Erin