Following on the joyful celebration of Br. Elijah’s reception of the habit earlier in the month, this last Sunday was yet another cause for celebration and gratitude to God as Br. John Blaschik pronounced his First Vows. Having completed his first three years of formation, Br. John now continues his preparation for Final Vows, three […]
Elijah come among us
On Sunday morning we had the happy occasion of witnessing Brother Gregory Wilson receive the Cistercian Habit and formally begin his two-year novitiate. In keeping with a long monastic tradition, Brother Gregory felt led to take a new name—that of the great Prophet Elijah. We thank God for bringing Brother Elijah to this important juncture […]
Spiritual Direction Institute, Charlottesville
In years past, we’ve posted information about the Spiritual Direction Institute. As we do so again this year, let me remind our readers that this is also a good resource for those looking for a spiritual director. But let me present the announcement I have from SDI: Have you been searching for a way to […]
Retreat House Availability, 3 to 7 February
Due to a group cancellation we now have 12 more rooms available Monday afternoon through Friday morning, 3 to 7 February. To make a reservation, please call Carol Hensley, Monday through Friday at 540-955-4383 or email her at information@hcava.org.
Reflection on today’s Gospel by visiting Trappist, Fr. Dominique-Savio Nelson of Guadalupe Abbey, Oregon.
In today’s Gospel pericope, Jesus calls Matthew to become his disciple. Jesus gazed at this man and said simply, “Follow me.” Did Jesus invite Matthew because the tax collector merited it? Was Jesus responding to some hidden longing in the sinner’s heart? Certainly not. Grace, by definition, comes unbidden and without explanation. In Caravaggio’s magnificent […]
A Word from our Cistercian Fathers
It shines equally on the good and the bad, and gives itself freely to both. O most beautiful Light, O radiance of light eternal, you were like that from the beginning, you were like that, O everlasting loveliness, in those everlasting days of yours, in the years of your eternity! You were like that, O Lord […]
New Year’s Day Liturgy: Mary Mother of God
Wednesday, January 1, 2020 9:45 AM Office of Terce 10:00 AM New Year’s day Mass celebrating Mary Mother of God PLEASE NOTE: The Gift Shop will be closed on New Year’s Day
Holy Mass Time Change
This year the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is being transferred to Monday, December 9. Accordingly, Monday’s Holy Mass will be celebrated at 10.00 a.m. (and not at 7.30). The monks will be following the basic Sunday schedule.
A Word from the Cistercian Fathers
‘God, you know my folly,’ and ‘Your eyes see all my guilt.’ Lord my God, you know, and you have made me know, and your eyes have seen and you have not hidden it from my eyes. For I know, in the light of your revelation, how much I lack in perfection and knowledge, and […]
Thanksgiving Thursday
Abbot Joseph and the Community wish you all a very blessed Thanksgiving and thank you for your kind good wishes for this special day of the year. Please be aware that Holy Mass on Thanksgiving Day will be celebrated at 10.00 a.m. and we will be following the basic Sunday Schedule. Also, note that the […]