“Time flies when you’re having fun,” as they say, and most people could probably add: “and even when your not having fun”!
Yesterday the monks of Christ in the Desert celebrated the 61st anniversary of the founding of our Monastery. On June 24th, 1964, Benedictine Fathers Aelred Wall, Placid Cormey and Basil DePinto inaugurated monastic life in the Chama Canyon wilderness, where monks have been ever since. I arrived in the Spring of 1977, nearly fifty years ago, and when the monastery was just 13 years old. Tempus fugit.
Yesterday was the Solemnity of the Nativity (Birth) of Saint John the Baptist, who is the principal patron saint of our monastery. As the “Forerunner of the Lord,” Saint John the Baptist dwelt in the Judean desert and is a special patron of all desert-dwellers, especially monks and nuns.
Today’s photo was taken shortly after Mass on June 24th, when we received a very generous rainfall, something always welcome in this corner of earth. Looking out the large window in the church, it almost looks like it is snowing, but it was cloudy and raining. As a result, the valley here is greener than ever.
This Friday we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred of Jesus, on Saturday, the memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and on Sunday, the Solemnity of Saint Peter and Paul. All of these are great days of rejoicing as we enter the Summer season.
Be assured of our daily prayers and please keep us in yours. Thank you.
Abbot Christian and the monks
