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On Thursday the 25th of November, the monks of Norcia had much cause to give thanks to God. We celebrate our 10 year anniversary of our arrival in Norcia on the First Sunday of Advent. The community continues to grow. Two new postulants will arrive on January 1st, and two postulants will become novices shortly thereafter. Br Anthony began his philosophy studies towards the priesthood in October. Br John continues his philosophy studies at Conception College Seminary in the US. Although out building project is halted for financial reasons, we find no trouble keeping busy in our present quarters. Guests continue to flock to Norcia from Italy and abraod for a taste of beauty, tranquility and peace. God has blessed us in many ways.
One new blessing was that our Prior, Fr Cassian was nominated an official Consulter of the Congregation for Divine Worship. Along with his present duties of teaching at Sant’Anselmo once a week and participating in various liturgical associations around the world, the Prior now has an official role in assisting the Holy See with its work of guarding and nurturing the Sacred Liturgy.
As is now tradition, the monks celebrated these blessings with a Thanksgiving in the American style, with turkey, and all the usual side dishes. We transported cranberry’s and pumpkin pie mixes from the US, with the help of generous visitors so that the meal could be as typical as possible. For the monks, Thanksgiving is one of three occasions during the year (Easter and Christmas the others) when meat is eaten. Our English and Indonesian brothers along with all the Americans enjoy this feast of thanksgiving.
With the prayers of the monks for all of you I am yours.
In Christ,
Fr Benedict