On the Road Again
July 2005
Hello everyone,
I hope you’re having an enjoyable summer.
I returned late last Thursday night from a two week silent retreat that was filled with prayer, often hard fought prayer. It was the retreat we go on before we commit to taking the next step in this monastic life and for me that step was initial vows—a 3 year commitment.
Upon returning to the monastery, I realized that my time here had come to an end and it was time for me to go on to other things. It’s time for me to leave the monastery. I feel free to go and so I am. Throughout the retreat, I continued to hear God saying, “Let go,” and trust him. That’s what I’m doing. It’s been a great and formative three years and now it’s time to go on.
Tomorrow morning I will return my habit to the community. I will move into our Guesthouse this week and depart SSJE by Monday, August 1.
What next? I have no specific plans. I know I will take some time to “play” before making my next career move.... So if you have a job for me or know of someone who does, I’d be glad to hear from you. I’ll be updating my resume this week and looking at some career counseling/training options.
And I’ll still be praying for you and ask your prayers for me during this exciting time in my life.
Your friend,
Rufus Van Horn
