Madison native Susan Pearson says it’s great to be back home after living in Florida and Massachusetts for 20 years. After getting settled from her move last fall, Susan began looking for a job and a volunteer opportunity.
Holy Wisdom Monastery immediately came to her mind because of a visit she made here years ago. “An article in the Capital Times on the completion of the new building prompted a friend and me to explore the monastery and hike the trails. The serenity and beauty stayed with me and that’s why I applied for the volunteer monastery receptionist opportunity on the monastery website,” said Susan.
Shortly after beginning her volunteer shift on Fridays, Susan was hired as a page designer for Capital Newspapers, working with editors at newspapers throughout the state and across the country. She requested a schedule, however, that allows her to continue to volunteer on Fridays when she staffs the monastery reception desk, answering guest questions, updating mailing lists, helping with Sunday Assembly bulletins and other tasks.
During Susan’s second week of volunteering, preparations for a memorial service were occurring. Susan learned that the service was for the wife of her favorite high school English teacher who inspired her to attend college.
Susan enjoys witnessing the looks of joy and wonder when guests come for their first visit. She says the warm conversations with the sisters and guests during lunch provide an opportunity to reflect on gratitude and attitude.
Interested in volunteering at Holy Wisdom? Visit benedictinewomen.org/support/volunteer/ to complete a volunteer interest form.
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