Sister Colman Odell, O.C.S.O.

First profession: Oct. 2, 1963

Sister Colman Odell

Jacqueline Odell, 88, is a native of Pennsylvania and a graduate of Penn State.  She taught for many years in Pennsylvania and, then, Florida.  Jacqueline became a Catholic as an adult, and entered the monastic life in her 30s, becoming “Colman” after a priest important in her life. Over the years, she has had many jobs at the monastery, including cook, candy worker, novitiate teacher and archivist, and always has been an eager student of many subjects in monastic life.   Sister Colman is still very active and regularly works as portress, answering the phone and welcoming guests. She remains an avid reader, devoted to Harry Potter, among others.

Reflection for the Fourth Monday of Lent

Live as children of light,
for light produces every kind of goodness
and righteousness and truth.
Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. (EPH 5:9-10)

Sister Colman’s eagerness to learn and serve to makes her a wonderful example of someone who lives as a child of light.  As you journey through this Lenten week, pray for the grace “to learn what is pleasing to the Lord” (Eph 5:10) and be a light to those you meet.