Mary Zenchoff

The In-Between Years Mary Zenchoff

Written with a sometimes naïve voice, often tempered by a wry twist of humor, this book tells the story of life in the convents of the 1950s and 1960s. Despite the rigid and repressive environment that prevailed in the religious orders of the Church at that time, the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience seemed reasonable--until food became a daily issue of forced abstinence and obedience became a matter of impossibility.

Thoughtful and introspective, constantly devoted to her faith in God and Jesus, and determined to live the life they planned for her, Mary wondered almost daily whether she had found that life.

Food was scarce; frequently, she and her companions literally did not have enough to keep hunger pangs away.

Work assignments often were not related to the background and training of the nuns given the assignments. Tasks usually demanded more time than hours existed in which to perform them.

Many other issues arose, only some of which could be resolved. Mothers Superior with personal characteristics similar to those of Attila the Hun did not make things easier or more pleasant.

Mary's departure from the convent grew out of a slow progression of discoveries and decisions over a number of years. She was always aware of the impact of her devotion to her religion and her faith on her daily activities. Mary finally understood that she could fulfill her commitment to God and Jesus and attain both their goals and her own in other environments. She left the convent, and The In-Between Years came to an end.