An anonymous current Jesuit has said: “The Christian Gospel places us under the sign of the diminutive.” In the Gospel, we encounter the puny mustard seed that becomes a great tree, the smidgen of leaven permeating everywhere, the widow’s mite worth more than lavish alms, a few loaves and fish able to satisfy a crowd, the little pearl for which one sells all to buy, and above all, the tiny Babe of Bethlehem.

Holy Family Hermitage itself is “placed under the sign of the diminutive.” Therefore, those who judge by appearances may see us as insignificant. But for those with faith, we are one of Chesterton’s “tremendous trifles.” For the greatest realities are within hearts, especially in hearts bent on the love, worship and service of God.

Our golden jubilee celebration September 8 was big by our standards. Cloister was suspended by order of the Father Major, and about forty men and women were present for the Mass and luncheon. A highlight was Bishop Conlon’s blessing of a unique icon of Saint Romuald and Blessed Paul, scripted by Father Richard Cannuli, OSA.

We will be offering the icon image for downloading at a nominal charge of $10. Downloadable free of charge will be our Customary, revised according to last September’s General Chapter. Among revisions is an entry requiring the completion of at least fifteen years of solemn profession before perpetual reclusion can be conceded. Another new posting concerns two potential saints.

Through the help of benefactors, some major improvements spruced up the Hermitage for its fiftieth. These included the long overdue re-carpeting of the church, the painting of the cell garden walls, and replacement windows for the common building, guest house, and cells. May the Lord bless all who helped!

In conclusion, we offer a passage from Archbishop Alban Goodier (1869-1939). “Think well on’t.” (Bishop Challoner)

Accustom yourself gradually to let your metal prayer spread over all your daily external occupations. Speak, act, work quietly as though you were praying. Do everything without excitement, simply, in the spirit of grace. As soon as you perceive natural activity gliding in, recall yourself quietly in the presence of God. Hearken to what is prompted by the leading of grace, and say and do nothing but what the Spirit of God teaches. You will find yourself infinitely more quiet, your words will be fewer and more effectual, and your labors bear more fruit.

You should try, without any painful effort to dwell upon God as often as longing for recollection comes upon you, and not regret that you cannot cultivate it more. It will not do to wait for disengaged seasons when you can close your door and be alone. The moment in which we crave recollection is the moment in which to practice it. Turn your heart then and there to God, simply, familiarly, trustfully. The most interrupted seasons may thus be used; not merely when you are out driving, but when you are dressing, even when you are eating and others are talking. Useless and tiresome details in conversation will afford you similar opportunities. Instead of wearying you they will give you time for recollection. Thus, all things turn to good for those who love God.