November 21 - Election of a Prioress

Just prior to our annual retreat, our community celebrated the election of Sr. Claire Marie of Jesus as our prioress for the next three years. Originally from Alberta, Sr. Claire entered the Order of Preachers in France before returning to help found Queen of Peace Monastery in her home country. Please pray for Sr. Claire and for our community as we begin this new prioral term under the guidance and loving care of the Holy Spirit!

 
 

There’s no snow on the ground yet, but during our annual retreat, the snow started creeping down the slopes of the Tantalus range. Not pictured, but also beautiful, are the stars that we begin to see this time of year. Being in a remote valley, there is very little light pollution, and usually a few sisters can be found outdoors before Matins, stargazing.

 
 

Pilchuk Creek is roaring as the fall rains get underway.

 
 

And, indoors, every corner of the monastery seems to have a project tucked away.

 

As we come to the end of the liturgical year and prepare for the season of Advent, may God fill you will every joy in believing, and may His peace dwell in your hearts. God bless!

 
Sr. Marie Thomas Lawrie
September 29 - Simple Profession of Sr. Marie Thomas of the Divine Word

On the Feast of the Archangels, September 29, Sister Marie Thomas of the Divine Word made her First Profession of Vows (aka Simple Vows) and placed herself more intimately under God’s Will, “in praise of His glory”, with all the angels of heaven!

Sister is originally from Northern British Columbia, and many friends and family were able to join us for this wonderful day. The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Dean Henderson, chaplain and friend from sister’s alma mater.

Here are a few photos from the celebration! Please pray for sister as she continues to follow Jesus in the footsteps of St. Dominic for the next three years.

 
 
Sr. Marie Thomas Lawrie
September 10 - This Mountain Life Documentary

Our monastery is very blessed to be part of a new documentary called "This Mountain Life", made by local filmmakers Grant and Jenny, and focusing on the lives of people who live in the mountains of British Columbia. We got a sneak peek at the film a few weeks ago, and were blown away by the quality of cinematography and respect for the stories of each of the characters. You can find out more about the film here; or, really, just get a glimpse for yourself:

 
 

If you’re in Western Canada, you can check out upcoming screenings at the Vancouver International Film Festival screening on October 2 and 4, and the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival screening on November 3.

Please join us in praying for all those who seek God’s face in the mountains, that we might “climb the mountain of the Lord” together and always be ready to support our brothers and sisters on the trek.

The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
    the world, and those who live in it;
for he has founded it on the seas,
    and established it on the rivers.

Who shall climb the mountain of the Lord?
    And who shall stand in his holy place?
Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
    who do not lift up their souls to what is false,
    and do not swear deceitfully.

They will receive blessing from the Lord,
    and vindication from the God of their salvation.
Such is the company of those who seek him,
    who seek the face of the God of Jacob.

- Psalm 24

Sr. Marie Thomas Lawrie