Brother Bruno made two more trips to bring sheep to auction on the 3rd and 10th. Because our guardians, the donkey and Maremmas, did such a great job this year, he delivered about 80 sheep total.
Speaking of our guardians, we received a 4th Maremma from Virginia, Olaf, into the pack on the 12th. Our older dogs need to train a younger to take their duties before they are too old to do so. Olaf is two and a half years old and has adapted to his new environment remarkably quickly.
The breeding season ended on the 23rd when the rams and ewes were separated from each other.
After the candlelight 1st Vespers of Christmas on the 24th Father Don blessed this year’s version of the Christmas Creche. As usual the ceremony was well attended with more participants than a typical Sunday Mass. Also as usual we ended with the hymn Silent Night and the greeting of peace to one another.
Our Christmas was white this year. Immediately after the very festive dinner Brother Joseph returned to California to help care for his sister. Prayers are appreciated.
On the 26th ten Servants of the Word arrived from Michigan on retreat although they always generously donate their time and skills with projects around the monastery while here.
The final three days of December we enjoyed a respite from winter with temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s and returned to seeing green again till the next snowstorm arrives.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
