Having had a dryer than normal Winter 2024-25, we were happy to have gotten recently some consecutive nighttime snowfalls of an inch or two. Each time the snow was completely melted by midday, but it provided at least some moisture to our land. Sometimes we even say that snow is our version of Spring rains!
We are now having gusty winds, which of course dries the land even more. Warmer temperatures are also part of the mix, so we are definitely in transition from Winter to Spring.
We are getting a steady number of guests making private retreats now, and as mentioned before, we are limiting the number of retreatants to ten at a time, to enhance the contemplative experience of the those on retreat and to balance the workload of the monks. So far, so good, it seems to be. Day visitors and pilgrims are also appearing as well with the warmer weather.
On March 19th we celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Foster-father of Jesus and husband of the Virgin Mary. He is a special patron of the home, family life and a happy death. May he intercede for us all.
Abbot Christian and the monks
