Sharing some good news
Greetings lovely one!
As I process yet another blow by lawmakers who seem determined to further marginalize the most vulnerable of us and somehow continue to work on a few big projects behind the scenes, I thought I’d hold off on sending a love letter for this month. But I didn’t want to leave ya’ll without sharing some news about something near and dear to my heart.
Some years back, I was introduced to The Mystic Soul Project, a QTBIPOC-led organization that is now in its sunsetting season. I had the chance to embark on a journey with a group of fellow pilgrims to Spain, where we dove deeper into our spiritual experiences with contemplative practices, building our knowledge of mysticism and some of the Spanish mystics, most notably St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.
We shared a sense of beloved community and supported each other in our vulnerabilities. Many of us are still connected in some way, shape, or form today. Though I did not experience any life-altering epiphanies while away, I fondly remember spending time immersed in quiet companionship with Carmelite nuns of the past and experiencing peace in that convent setting. It wasn't my first time being drawn to the idea of becoming a Sister, as I had fleeting thoughts since I watched the movie Sister Act, but as I wasn't raised as a Catholic or involved in any other organized religion that offered that possibility, I dismissed those thoughts as unrealistic and moved on. Or so I thought…
That pilgrimage seems to have sparked something within me, and the thought of becoming a Sister refused to dissipate. Eventually, with life unfolding in various beautiful and unexpected ways, I decided to sit with the idea and take it more seriously.
Fast forward a few years of deep discernment, mentorship, and spiritual direction, and I'm beyond excited to share that I recently offered my vows to devote my life entirely to a sacred dedication to the Holy One. I know I couldn't share my entire life story with you right now, but this is a significant part of my journey that I'm thrilled to share.
As someone who holds onto my Quaker faith and remains open to interspiritual bridge building, I joined the Sisters For Christian Community. This ecumenical community allows me to walk alongside other dedicated women who feel called to engage in a relationship with God in a specific way. These women have become my Sisters, my friends, and my community. As a result, I am now known as Sister Lynette Davis, SFCC. Quakers aren’t big on titles so you can still call me Lyn, I will answer to both.
Being a part of this international community grants me the freedom to live out my commitment in the world itself, as the world is our monastery. I am still very much me - a passionate mental health advocate, a writer, and a blerd who enjoys rock music just as much as I love 90's R&B. However, I am also deeply in love with the Lord while embracing my imperfections as a human being.
I sincerely appreciate your prayers and support as I continue along this new chapter of my life's journey. I am more than willing to offer a deep listening space for those who may also feel a similar calling to this lifestyle or to ministry and are wondering where it might lead them. Feel free to explore more here: Sacred Pause Today (I will be taking on new directees in late August/early September.)
*In the manner of Friends (Quakers) we didn't take photos during my hybrid ceremony but family and F/friends on Zoom took screenshots, here’s one of them.
Peace and blessings,
Sr. Lynette