A beautiful YES to God!

Happy Feast of the Annunciation! On this day that we celebrate the "yes" of the Mother of God to the reception of Divine Life within her, we are thrilled to announce another "yes" to God!

A young woman has said "yes" to the Bridegroom's invitation to life in our community! Jessie Houck will become a dokimos (postulant) with our community on May 22. Jessie is 24 years old and is the daughter of Rick Houck and Cathy McArdle of Manchester, Ohio. She is very active in various ministries at her home parish of St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church in Akron, Ohio. Jessie received an accounting degree at The University of Akron in 2008. She has been an accountant for three years at BCG & Company, an accounting firm in Akron. From the beginning, Jessie has been a faithful cohort in our “Christ the Bridegroom adventure” and didn’t even allow a terrible blizzard to stop her from coming to help at our very first work day!

The dokimos (postulant) is one who seeks a trial period of living the monastic life. Jessie will begin to experience the daily life of prayer, poverty, chastity, obedience, hospitality and community life. Her attire will consist of simple black clothes, a black scarf and cross. Through regular prayer, silence and reflection, she will continue to discern Christ’s loving will in her life. Jessie is especially enthusiastic about her relationship with Christ and with those around her. She is very prayerful, thoughtful and playful. We thank and praise God for the gift she is. It is a courageous and awesome leap of faith. Please keep Jessie in your prayers as she continues to be drawn into the joy and mystery of the Bridegroom’s yearning.

The Virgin answered the angel: It seems that you are speaking the truth to me, for you have come as a messenger bringing joy to all. Since the Holy Spirit has purified my soul and body, let it be done to me as you say; may God dwell within me. With you I cry out to Him: All you works of the Lord, bless the Lord! (Ode 8, Matins for the Feast of the Annunciation)