Monks "On the Road" Not all training for the
monastic life takes place in a classroom, in the
church or even within the monastery. Monks also
need time away to reflect, “cut loose” and discover
new aspects of this beautiful world and the good
people God has placed here. To this end, Fr.
John Martin Shimkus led a three-day excursion “Up
North” for our monks in formation, Brs. Paul Culver
and Nicholas Hejka.
Though late in the travel season, the northern part of our wonderful state proved to be a joyful adventure for our brothers as it is for many travelers throughout the year. From their temporary home base at St. Augustine Retreat Center near Petoskey, the monastic sojourners visited and prayed at the well-known Cross in the Woods in Indian River. They also traveled over the Mackinac Bridge to St. Ignace where they became acquainted with the mission and ministry of Fr. Jacques Marquette who is buried along the main road of that town. A visit to the Museum of Ojibway Culture also provided a better understanding of native cultures as well as the trials and contributions of native peoples.
The mid-fall foliage seemed especially bright and vibrant this year and provided a stunning background as our brothers traveled down the road. This short journey - complete with time at Bronner’s in Frankenmuth - also provided an opportunity for the monks to pray and “play” in a relaxed setting. The memories of time together will form part of the enduring bond that helps form and strengthen our monastic family here on the Hill!
Though late in the travel season, the northern part of our wonderful state proved to be a joyful adventure for our brothers as it is for many travelers throughout the year. From their temporary home base at St. Augustine Retreat Center near Petoskey, the monastic sojourners visited and prayed at the well-known Cross in the Woods in Indian River. They also traveled over the Mackinac Bridge to St. Ignace where they became acquainted with the mission and ministry of Fr. Jacques Marquette who is buried along the main road of that town. A visit to the Museum of Ojibway Culture also provided a better understanding of native cultures as well as the trials and contributions of native peoples.
The mid-fall foliage seemed especially bright and vibrant this year and provided a stunning background as our brothers traveled down the road. This short journey - complete with time at Bronner’s in Frankenmuth - also provided an opportunity for the monks to pray and “play” in a relaxed setting. The memories of time together will form part of the enduring bond that helps form and strengthen our monastic family here on the Hill!