Some make-overs by monks

Yes, I know, it's not what you think. . . the brothers are not getting facials or footbaths. But there are some changes in the summer breezes around campus. There are new brick entrance signs flanking the long drive, and I suspect Br. Kevin's hand is in the landscaping there.

There is a quiet campaign going on to fund new protective glass over the priceless stained glass windows....these will secure this rare treasure as well as letting more light through to enjoy the vivid colors inside the sanctuary.

And, the University website has a new look. It is always a little bit of a challenge to find your usual favorite web spots when the placements and groupings have changed, but I think this website has done a good job at it.

The Oblates retreat, open to all, is scheduled for August 1-3, with our venerable retreat master Father Charles Buckley. The book this year is by Frederick Buechner, "Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy, and Fairy Tale". It is a short book, 98 pages, and can purchase online through the chain bookstores. Hope to see you there!

Abbot Lawrence is also leading a summer retreat, July 11-13, on Pope Benedict XVI's Teaching on Love, his first encyclical.

Both retreats begin Friday evening session at 8 p.m. with registration beginning at 6 p.m. A private dorm room with linens and a shared bathroom, along with meals Saturday through Sunday breakfast in the monastery refectory, are included with the very reasonable price of $80. A gift offering to the retreat master is available to participate in. The campus indoor pool and gym are available during its Saturday hours. Also the well-reputed Mabee-Gerrer Museum is open.

This is a great way to recharge spiritually and rest physically, in the company of other adults of all ages wishing to learn and reflect under the wisdom of Benedictine values, in a beautiful rural campus setting.

Have a peace-able summer and I will post again after the retreat.