Laurie Smith, right, from Havre de Grace, Maryland, recently began a six-month commitment in the Benedicta Riepp live-in monastic experience program. Prioress Sister Stephanie Schmidt, pictured, and the community welcomed her with a blessing and acceptance ritual followed by a shared meal in the community dining room. “I felt such a welcome,” Laurie said. “I feel like I belong here.”

During her time living at the monastery, which she has the option of extending to twelve months, Laurie will participate in nearly all aspects of monastic life: prayer, shared responsibilities (translate: collaborate on a dish team), social activities, reflection, and ministry. She will have one day a week fully dedicated to prayer and reflection and will have a formation program geared to the immersion experience.

Laurie, who is an ordained interfaith minister and a spiritual director, will be assisting in the development of spirituality programs at the monastery. She will also dedicate one day a week to helping with programs at St. Benedict Education Center and another day with the Listening Hearts, a Monasteries of the Heart experience for women in Erie.

There is no one specific job description for an “interfaith minister,” Laurie explained. “Most of us do what we are passionate about.” And for Laurie, her time at the monastery is designed to help her do that. “I am passionate about creation and the natural world, about art and creativity and spirituality,” she said.

“We are grateful for women like Laurie who want to share their lives with us. Some of our experience and wisdom rubs off on them and some of theirs changes us,” said Sister Stephanie Schmidt, prioress.