Starets Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 This is a post I was hoping I would never have to write. On July 9 I was asked to leave. The seniors have decided that maybe a less isolated or larger community would be better for me. The cause is my PTSD. I have been in counselling for it for over a year now and have made great strides. My counsellor does not think it is a major problem anymore. In fact she thinks the problem is almost gone. The seniors do not think so. They have decided that I should move in order to have more counselling. They do like me, though, and apparently did not have anything negative to say about me. Naturally, I was devastated when I was told that. It was like being kicked in the head while having one's heart cut out and torn to shreds. My abbot was upset as well. I intend to remain in monastic life. Never have I felt happier or more fulfilled than in this life. My goddaughter said that if things did not work out here, I could move in with her in england and we would live as brother and sister, but she is married now. But it looks like I have found a new monastic home. I will most likely be transferring to St. Mary's Monastery in Petersham (pronounced Peter's Ham). the only snag is that their superior was just elected as Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey in Scotland, which is their mother house. So I cannot ask to be transferred until a new superior is chosen, which will be around September 20th. But Abbot Anselm is supportive of it. I intend to continue persevering. This will push back when I make my Solemn Profession but I still intend to make that. maybe it can be in the fall of 2013 instead of the summer. After all, New England is very pretty when the leaves are turning colour. *sigh Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HopefulBride Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Will keep you in prayer brother. May Our Lady keep you in her mantle during this hard time. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
faithcecelia Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 I am so sorry to hear this Staretz, from experience I know how painful it is - especially I think when they also say they believe in your vocation. If you want to talk or even 'sound off' please PM me - Im a good listener. Yiu will be especially in my prayers as you and those involved continue to discern your future. God bless you at this difficult time. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Archaeology cat Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Praying for you Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EWIE Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 [color=#800000][size=5][b]Prayers go with you, Brother.[/b][/size][/color] [color=#800000][size=5][b]The Lord writes straight with crooked lines.[/b][/size][/color] [color=#800000][size=5][b]Perhaps He has a better place prepared for you.[/b][/size][/color] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BG45 Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Prayers for you and for your vocation. May the Lord keep watch over you and help you during this period, and may He guide you as you hope to transfer after the new Superior is selected. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OnlySunshine Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 I'm sorry to hear this sad news, Brother. I can't imagine what it must feel like to be uprooted from a place that you thought would be until death. I pray that your transfer will bring you much needed peace. Prayers! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tinytherese Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Totally Franciscan Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 This breaks my heart; I am so very sorry. You have helped so many here at Phatmass. One wonders after so many years in your present monastery, this happens. It leaves me wondering why. It just does not make sense. However, it seems it is God's will, and he has better plans for you. Be assured that so many of us are with you on this journey in prayer and support. God bless you, Brother. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MargaretTeresa Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Prayers and hugz. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regina_coeli Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 I am so, so sorry! Prayers Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sarah147 Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 How life-changing and difficult this must be for you. Praise God that you can remain within the monasteries and get counselling. Prayers. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aya Sophia Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Prayers for you during this difficult time of transition. Hope, as you proceed, you can keep the eyes of your heart on the Lord and His love for you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CatherineM Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 I've struggled with PTSD for 20 years. I know what an irritating condition it can be. You will find the place you need to be. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BarbTherese Posted September 5, 2011 Share Posted September 5, 2011 Prayer Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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