I just got a phone call from the Vina Monastery which is about an hour's drive from me. My parish priest suggested I ask there for a spiritual director. Father Paul phoned and said I could come once a month starting next Tuesday -- and now I am scared (I know, sounds silly, doesn't it?)

I have prayed for a good spiritual director, so let's hope he is able to help me with my vocation discernment. I am afraid he is going to tell me I am too old or not good enough or something....

tell me I am being silly please!

I know I just need to trust God and put my fate in His hands. I do so want to be a nun, so I really hope that this spiritual director is good for me!

Don't worry. I think everyone is nervous the first time!
It will probably take a few meetings for you to feel comfortable with each other and to know where the Lord is leading you both for your vocation and in regards spiritual direction.
Keep your mind and heart open to God's will and especially pray for your spiritual director. You have a reciprical obligation--he to help you and you to help him by your prayer!

God bless you! We'll be praying for an overflowing torrent of the Holy Spirit!
Sr. Mary Catharine, op

I agree with SMC... it'll take a bit for you two to figure out a rhythm (personality, conversation style, etc). But Iyou've been praying for him, and that's just great news! Now you have everyone on here praying for you too!

Oh no, but don't worry about that. It's God's call and God's grace that matters in discerning a vocation. I'm a complete slob without God's grace! I feel I ought to be the least likely person to have a religious vocation. I was probably late for school the vast majority of days than I was ever on time (on the days I was even there, that is ).

Sometimes I read the lives of many religious saints, and I become rather depressed when I read so many of them were incredibly virtuous and holy from the beginning - that they did this and that sacrifice and etc. That's totally not me!

But then you realize just how much you have to depend on God's grace alone! So nevermind about being good enough - just God's call, and trying to do His will.

"tell me I am being silly please!"

Never silly friend, just a bit anxious. My limited experience with spiritual directors has been all to the good. Even the difficult times have ended up a blessing. And no one has ever "told me" not to pay attention to the way my heart is being led.

so Peace.
Piamaria

Thank all of your phatmassers for your prayers and support. I am an "oldie" amongst all you young people (according to the age poll) but I really appreciate the loving support that is here for anyone discerning a vocation. I will pray for each of you as well.