Oasis (Fr. Prior)
In our rich Western society where everything is available at any time, provided you are ready to pay for it, there seems to be a growing thirst for authenticity. It is at least what comes out from the portion of humanity we monks can observe in our numerous summer visitors. These seem to enjoy direct contact with animals and nature, a peaceful walk through the woodland, resting for a while on a bench in the garden, sitting in silence in the pilgrim chapel or the church and listening quietly to the inner voice, meeting a (hopefully) smiling monk who passes by. Nothing very complicated, really, but it seems to be a luxury to find places where God and man, nature and culture, people of all ages and backgrounds relate harmoniously.
