The cloistered monastic life, the life of a Benedictine nun to which God called me, has permitted me a stronger dedication to God in seclusion and silence, prayer and work, sacrifice and love for God and my neighbour, and that fills the heart ineffably.

Such a life of renunciation, particularly at a time when media exposure is so common, is not intelligible to everyone, and will perhaps appear terrifying, but the reality is quite different. This is a joyful life. Prayer and work are so intertwined that the days rush by with indescribable speed, and it is the love of God that sweetens and gives meaning to them.

The Word of God speaks out to the open heart, and it speaks loudest in silence and through the silence it is transmitted around the world.  God called upon me to be a witness, to be able to amplify His word. God is the one that gave me the openness to recognise this call, gave me the enthusiasm to decide on this life and that every day supports me with His grace, strength and persistence.

Along with this call and this support, I think God for having given me the experience of the beauty and fulfilment of the cloistered life.  I am happy and wish to share this joy in life given me with all whom I shall meet through these lines.

I am immersed in the history of this Benedictine Monastery of St Nicholas in Trogir, the edifice of which has since 956 been a signpost to draw and elevate the views of the passers-by, reminding them that they were created for the heavens, and at the same time quietly testifies that “it is very nice to be a Benedictine nun”.

Sr. M. Alojzija Dorvak, OSB