Recently the CIB (Communion of International Benedictines) met for five days in Montserrat, Spain. All nineteen regions of the globe, approximately 13,000 Benedictines, were represented. The meeting made further progress for the CIB to become a canonical body. The emphasis of the CIB continues to be on communion with one another that encourages and fosters unity, collaboration and support.
A heart-rending moment of genuine communion occurred near the end of the meeting. Through Zoom, Mother Klara from Zhytomyr, Ukraine updated the delegates and shared the continuing devastating impact of the war in her country. Her monastery is located near the top of a hill and not far from much of the fighting. It is a dangerous place to live. So many deaths: soldiers, civilians and children. Sirens go off constantly. Early on, the sisters learned how to distinguish the siren’s signal from either a major threat or one that is only a warning. The community could have moved to a safer area in Ukraine. Her community has intentionally chosen to remain with the people. Most don’t have the option of moving. Bonds with the local people have increased. The sisters’ interactions with the people are constant, giving emotional support especially to the sorrowing, praying together, and providing basic necessities as they are able.
During the Zoom meeting, I was struck with the calmness in Mother Klara’s voice and the hope she both possesses and expresses. She relates learning much about real hope that is exemplified in Pope Leo XIV’s words: “True hope lies not in avoiding pain but in persevering with belief in new life, even in unjust suffering.” She does not see the war ending anytime soon (maybe even lasting years) and the amount of human suffering and death just continues. Mother Klara, her community and the people of Ukraine are a testimony to other words of Pope Leo: “Christian hope is an anchor, grounding believers in the promises of Christ, providing a lasting foundation amidst worldly challenges.” Her hope challenges my need to grow in hope. It makes me realize hope and optimism are not the same. Real hope is rooted in Christ who gave his life for all.
Each flag represents a Ukrainian soldier that has died in the war.
Mother Klara visiting the grave of a Ukrainian soldier.