November is here

To hear the beginning of the ringing of the Basilica tower bells for first vespers of the feast of All Saints play the short video above. We sang first vespers on Friday evening at 5:15 PM with the students and monks joining in the prayer. While this year the feast was not a holyday of obligation since it fell on a Saturday, we celebrated it as usual with ceremonies at both vespers and a solemn Mass at 10:30 AM on Saturday. Abbot Gregory was celebrant for the Mass.

The students had a Halloween party on Friday evening to which the monks were invited. I did not go myself as I was tired and wanted to go to bed early.

Father Hugh Tasch came through his colon surgery last Tuesday in fine shape and is due to return to the infirmary here at the Abbey, probably tomorrow (Monday). Father Norbert and I have been taking turns going to Savannah to take his place as chaplain for the Franciscan Sisters there.

Even though today is the 2nd of November, it is very warm and sunny. I think the temperature must be well up into the 70's and it was a nice afternoon to go for a good walk. I'm sure it will be changing soon.

This is an altar built and placed in the hallway outside the Basilica. It was built by the Hispanic students, a custom of theirs to honor the dead on this day -- All Souls Day.