June 2 was an historical day at the Monastery! The petition for transfer of sponsorship was mailed to the Vatican in Rome. Sister Beverly Raway (Prioress) and Amber Terch (Executive Administrative Assistant) brought the contents to the nearest DHL postal service provider in North Branch, MN. Sister Beverly Raway used the term “epic” in describing the accomplishment. This project has been a culmination of efforts that began more than 20 years ago with concentrated efforts over the past four years.
The petition is to ensure the Sisters’ sponsored ministries in healthcare and education adhere to Catholic identity and Benedictine charisms well into the future. As the availability of the Sisters to provide oversight to their sponsored ministries decreases, they are proposing to transfer sponsorship to an entity called Duluth Benedictine Ministries (overseen by the Sisters). This proposal goes to the Vatican for approval to ensure the preservation of the charism and spirit of the Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery well into the future. Stay tuned for progress updates.