Nancy Shively

I was a Franciscan for quite awhile even before I unknowingly arrived on the doorstep of the monastery for what I thought was going to be a one time retreat experience.

God had other ideas and as Jeremiah said to God, “I’ve been duped and I let myself be duped!” So that week in the summer of 1993 God swept me off my feet very much to my shock and surprise. I felt something special here that spoke to my heart’s desire and I didn’t even know I was missing something – but I was.

Now I can say that being called to be a Poor Clare has been the greatest gift and making that transition was both the hardest thing I’ve ever done and the best!

Being able to make my relationship with God the priority of my day, to live with others who have the same priorities and values and to live simply are all important to me.

I am grateful. And humbled. And sincerely trying to become fully who God has called me to be. God is a God of surprises and I try to be open to receiving all that God wants to give me each day.