The beginnings of Fall

We observed Contemplative Days this week in the company of over twenty guests. Silence and solitude are refreshing friends.

Br. Josép returned Thursday from a five day visit to his mom in Florida.

This Friday, Br. Robert James, our Superior, returned from his six week visit to our Brothers at St Benedict's Priory in Hermanus, South Africa. Br. Edwin Kriel, a novice at St Benedict's Priory accompanied him to the US. Edwin will be part of the West Park community for the next three months. He will receive continued formation with our postulants and novice. We all look forward to getting to know him better.

Monastery people. From top left, clockwise: Grace Church, Brooklyn, Bible Study Group with our postulant Anthony (on the left) in the refectory; Br. Edwin Kriel, in front of the icon cross (two pictures); Br. Robert Leo with Archbishop Justin Welby in Garrison, NY, a couple of weeks ago; Br. Timothy feeding a newly planted tree in our cemetery; Br. Marc studying on the enclosure porch.

During Contemplative Days, monks lighten their work load if they can and spend more time in study, prayer and activities that feed their souls. Our guests seem to appreciate the silence and "being alone together" as well.

Our postulant Jeffrey Costello has turned a previously unlovely corner of our garden into a little meditative corner. His cross evokes the rock art of Andy Goldsworthy. Each of our men in formation have adopted a garden patch that they are beautifying. More beauty is on the way.

Greenery inside and out. From top left, clockwise: the stone cross in the little garden in the care of postulant Jeffrey Costello (two pictures); the Clearwater sloop sailing past on the Hudson; an arrangement of garden flowers by Br. Robert Leo (Montauk daisies, roses, salvia - two pictures).

Our friend Ellen Metzger-O'Shea's art exhibit was fully installed last weekend and is on view through Thanksgiving. As promised, last week, you get a sneak peek. For the full effect, a visit is in order.

Ellen's art. A few pictures of the about twenty paintings on view.

May you enjoy the blessings of autumn (if you're in the Northern hemisphere).