The funds will also help discerning women explore whether or not they are called to Benedictine life. Mary Kay Henry, Director of Development, says that a successful appeal is vital in order to inform people about the existence of the Monastery and the viability of monastic life. We hear over and over that we are the best kept secret in Idaho , says Sr. We want to increase our visibility through personal contact with inquiring women at parishes and career fairs, by advertising regionally and nationally, and by utilizing basic marketing techniques. Janet Barnard, Vocation Director, believes that increased personal contact and publicity will draw more women to the Monastery to explore religious life.
Many women don t regard religious life as an option because they don t have contact with sisters.
Mid-life single women do not know that religious life may be a viable option for them. This is a new endeavor for St. Gertrude s, said Sr. We are transforming our ideas about religious vocations and how to find those who are seeking us out. Times of transformation are evident throughout St. Gertrude s long history. The sisters arrival in Cottonwood in 1907 brought continual intercessory prayer, resources, labor, education, health care and spiritual direction to the newly formed state of Idaho.