An AI Composition
We had a lovely visit from Abbot Cuthbert and Dom Michael of Farnborough Abbey, which wrapped up on the 2nd. We sent them off the following day after a festive celebration together.
Spring seems to be arriving early—we spotted our first groundhog (or “whistle-pig,” as Father Martin liked to say) on the 6th, busy tidying up its burrow. The weather has been spring like too, with temperatures hitting the 70s from the 9th through the 11th.
Inside the chapel, the painting project continued much of the month. To reach the cupola—which sits 33 feet above the altar—we had to bring in special lifts. It’s a big improvement from our last paint job 20 years ago, when the scaffolding couldn’t quite reach those highest points!
Christopher, a vocational candidate from Ohio, visited us from the 18th to the 25th. Please pray for his discernment and for an increase in vocations to our community.
Breaking from our Lenten fast, we celebrated three major solemnities: Saint Joseph on the 19th, Saint Benedict on the 21st, and the Annunciation on the 25th (which also marked Brother Gabriel’s feast day).
Holy Week started on Palm Sunday, the 29th. Following tradition, we began Mass in the crypt and processed to the upper chapel while singing and carrying palms.
By the end of the month, the back road to Saint Gertrude’s was reopened, provided we don’t get any heavy snow or ice.
Wishing you a joyful Easter filled with God’s many blessings!
HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE:
Maundy Thursday, April 2: Mass of the Last Supper at 5:00 p.m.
Good Friday, April 3: Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 3:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday, April 5: Paschal Vigil including Mass will begin at 5:00 a.m. There is NO 9:00 a.m. Mass.
Easter Monday, April 6: We observe a Sunday schedule with Mass at 9:00 a.m.