Sister Judith Marie Martin, OSB
I converted to Catholicism in 1970 and entered religious life in 1985. My journey to religious life began in 1982 with greater participation in various ministries within the Church. Desire for greater knowledge of God led to the Pastoral Ministry Program in 1983. By 1984 I knew that a single lifestyle and participating in Church ministries were not providing the immersion into Christ's life that was pulling me. The thought of admitting to a nun my own pull toward religious life was intimidating - 'How could I possibly place myself next to those faith-filled, dedicated and committed women?'

I realized that 'I' could not. By trusting God's invitation to guide me and faithfulness to be with me, I risked my life as I knew it and pursued Christ in this wholehearted step. I then learned that each nun made the same step as I - openness to God's call and risk the next step. The result is fulfillment.

Why the Benedictines? My 'goal' was to get to know God more deeply and intimately. How I would serve God was not my motivation, yet I knew that service would necessarily be a part of my life. I knew I needed to be immersed in a group of like-minded persons, all seeking God through the living experience of Community. This is the core of Benedictine life and has been for over 1500 years.

Within community today I do a number of activities. I am the sub-prioress, the community treasurer, and take responsibility for the monastery grounds. My hobbies are sketching, and creating walking sticks for both practical uses and as decoration.