discernment
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…
Braving the Weather
I woke up this morning to find 9 inches of snow had fallen. Snow is always nice to look at, but not so nice if you have to travel. That was the case for me this morning. I was assigned to celebrate Mass at two different parish in the St. Joseph area (normally a 45…
Be Joyful
The monastic life requires sacrifice. But, in the midst of the things that a monk offers up in order to follow Christ in our Benedictine way of life, there are many blessings. Everyone is susceptible to a myopic viewpoint only seeing the frustrations of life, and then falling into a habit of complaining and being…
Employee Christmas Party
Each year the employees of Conception Abbey, Conception Seminary College, and the Printery House gather together for a Christmas Luncheon. It is an enjoyable time to relax with good food, refreshments, and great company, and look back on how God has blessed our community. We are grateful to our employees for their hard work and…