Tower Topics
Snow: Part Deux
A quick glimpse of campus this morning after the snow finished falling sometime last night. Our workers did a good job having the sidewalks cleared so that we can carry on business as usual. The snow is not terribly deep, but the wind enabled drifts to collect in various areas.
New Year’s Day
The monks’ Christmas celebrations continued as we opened the New Year with the Universal Church by honoring the feast of Mary, Mother of God. New Year’s Eve in the monastery was fairly quiet, and I doubt that any of the monks stayed up until midnight to welcome in the New Year. The Prior, Fr. Daniel,…
Goodbye 2013
The monks spent the past 24 hours on a Day of Recollection. For me, the end of the calendar year is a time to reflect upon the blessings of 2013, and there were many. I am grateful for the friends and family who have shown me such great kindness and support throughout the year. I will…
Family Visits
Happy Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph! During these days of Christmas, many of the families of the monks have been visiting the Abbey and staying in our guesthouses. Do the monks get to visit their families often? Friends and family members are welcome to visit at almost any time during…
Christmas Vespers
Many people are interested in hearing the monks chant the Divine Office. I recorded Solemn Vespers II on Christmas Day.
Feast of St. Stephen
Today is the Feast of St. Stephen, which is Br. Etienne’s Namesday. “Etienne” is French name for “Stephen.” It was a big month for Br. Etienne (and his beard), as he made solemn vows on December 15th, and now celebrates the feast of his heavenly patron. I asked Br. Etienne to respond to several questions…
Shepherds at the Crib
A long Abbey tradition of playing this piece after Compline on Christmas Day. Enjoy! Merry Christmas.
Christmas Blessings
May the Joy of Christ dwell in your heart this holy season and throughout the year! The monks had beautiful Christmas celebrations, beginning with First Vespers, followed by a banquet in the monastery refectory. A fun monastery tradition is that we ring all five bells in the tower for fifteen minutes before Christmas Vigils at…
Deck the Halls
Outside, the snow covers the rolling hills. If you were hoping for a white Christmas, you got it. Inside, the monks are preparing for the Nativity of the Lord. Much preparation from many hands goes into putting together a beautiful and festive Christmas celebration. It takes help from musicians (the organists and choir), monks to…