Threshold Summer 2007

A Welcome in a Welcoming Space
by Joachim Holthaus, OSB

In a Benedictine monastery, certain events stand out as unique and memorable. One such occasion was the blessing of the new monastery entrance and the dedication of the renovated Dooley Center. There was joy on the faces of all, and pride as we shared the beauty of this latest addition to our home. The curved cream-colored stone wall is graced with our signage as it reaches out to welcome guests. Abbot Barnabas described it well when he said that “our fountain speaks of an ever flowing spirit, surrounded by brick and stone, greeting our friends.”

Our canopied threshold, the expansive northern windows, the stone, marble and statues speak of the welcome we extend to all who come to this sacred ground.
About 200 friends and family came to share our accomplishment. Benedictines from Clyde, Conception and St. Benedict’s Abbey, Sisters of Charity and Sisters of Joseph also enjoyed the tours directed by our sisters. Sister Anne spoke of the importance St. Benedict gave to the care of the sick. She also praised the labor of the last three prioresses in establishing Dooley Center to extend the care given to our monastic elders.

Blue and white balloons festooned our refectory and corridors as guests joined in the blessing and gathered for refreshments. As our visitors began to leave, they received a souvenir of remembrance: a CD recording of Gregorian chant sung by the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, or the community’s history, the book by Sister Faith Schuster, The Meaning of the Mountain. Younger guests received balloons and Sister Marie Louise Krenner’s book, The Twin Who Tagged Along, a story of St. Scholastica.

Some photos of the day

Melanie Schmiedeler is greeted by Sister Mary David McFarland.

Benedictine Sisters from Clyde, Mo, admire the new front area

Sister Alice Smitherman (left) leads a tour group.

Inside the front entrance on a "work day"