The coral bark maple stands in the kitchen courtyard and brightens our winter days. As we begin this Lenten season we rejoice in the signs of new life around us. The Lenten roses and the star magnolia near the retreat house are blooming. A special kind of quiet wraps itself around the monastery as we join with all of you in our Lenten journey to Easter. We remember especially in prayer all of our brothers and sisters who will be baptized and received into the Church at the Easter vigil this year. Like Pope Francis we ask you to pray for us. This is a season of mercy and reconciliation, of second chances and hope. We all have another chance to “ turn away from sin and live the gospel”. Peace to your heart.
