Daylesford Abbey

News
DAY L E SF OR D
Bill and Kate Wunner with
Father John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
FOR THE FRIENDS OF DAYLESFORD ABBEY • FALL 2013 • VOL. 16 ISSUE NO. 1
In this issue:
Abbot’s Letter
Abbot Richard Antonucci, O. Praem.
Page 2
Transitions
Prior Steven Albero, O. Praem.
Page 3
Development Corner and Dinner Dance
Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
Pages 4-5
Ventures in Vocation Ministry
Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
Page 6
Battered Not Broken
Gerard Jordan, O. Praem.
Page 7
50th Year Celebrations
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Page 8
Abbey Associates
Rev. Joseph Serano, O. Praem.
Page 10
Spirituality Center Fall Program Guide
Linda Christopher
Page 12
Daylesford Abbey exists
to enrich the Church by our
Norbertine communio, nourished by
contemplation on God’s Word,
made visible in worship and service
within the local church.
DAY LESF OR D
Ne ws
FA L L 2 0 13 , Vo l u m e 16 , N u m b e r 1
CONTENTS
Abbot Richard Antonucci, O. Praem.
3 Transitions
Prior Steven Albero, O. Praem.
4 Development Corner
Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
5 Dinner Dance
Linda Christopher
6 Ventures in Vocation Ministry
Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
7 Blessed Not Broken
Gerard Jordan, O. Praem.
8 50th Year Celebrations
Looking Back, Looking Forward
10 Abbey Associates
Rev. Joseph Serano, O. Praem.
12 Spirituality Center Fall Program Guide
Linda Christopher
EDITORS
Joseph Serano, O. Praem.
Linda Christopher
LAYOUT and DESIGN
Normand J. Gouin
Stay Connected
Visit us online at:
www.daylesford.org
2 | Fall 2013

Utter Words, but to Live by Them
by Abbot Richard Antonucci, O. Praem.
Dear Friends of Daylesford,
I think it was John Kennedy who said, “As we express our gratitude, we must
never forget that the highest
appreciation is not to utter
words, but to live by them.”
As we approach November
13th which marks the end of
the celebration of our fiftieth anniversary as an independent Norbertine Foundation, these words ring
most true to me.
2 Abbot’s Letter
PUBLISHED THREE TIMES
ANNUALLY
For additional copies, write to
the Editors
or call Daylesford Abbey
610.647.2530
Fax: 610.651.0219
www.daylesford.org
The Highest Appreciation Is Not to
•
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God has been very good to our Norbertine
Community over these past fifty years …. from the
vision and courage of those first Norbertines who
came East from Wisconsin with the hope of founding an independent Norbertine Foundation to the
present day friends of the Abbey who bless us with
their love, friendship and support. Now, as Abbot, I
can say as never before, we would have never done
it without you!
For me personally, this is a fiftieth anniversary of being in the Order. Fr. Jim Rodia, my classmate, and I entered the community on August 17,
1963. At the time, Daylesford “Priory” was located
in Berwyn at the former Cassatt Mansion. Pictured
above I am standing in the doorway of the room I
lived in during that first year. Visiting it last April was
the first time in fifty years that I saw it and, believe
me, it held many, many memories. It didn’t take long
for me to go back fifty years to the time when I was a
young eighteen year-old novice, working, sleeping,
hoping, worrying and praying in that room. I simply
feel so fortunate to be a Norbertine today, fifty years
later in a vibrant Norbertine community surrounded
and upheld by thousands of friends of the Abbey.
Yes, God has been good indeed.•
Please leave a message at
610.647.2530 ext. 100
www.daylesford.org
Transitions
F
By Prior Steven Albero, O. Praem.
or the Norbertines of Daylesford Abbey, transition
is a way of life -- on the surface, not so different from what most baptized people throughout
the world experience. But, when you get beyond the
surface, with professed religious and those about to take
their vows of religious consecration, transition takes on
a deeper meaning. The words speak for themselves: “I,
… , offer and give myself to the Church of the Assumption and I promise a conversion of my ways, and life in
community, especially in poverty, consecrated celibacy and
obedience, according to the Gospel of Christ and the apostolic way of life, according to the rule of Saint Augustine
and the constitutions of the Order of Premontre; I promise
this before, …, the prelate of this canonry and before this
community.” Thus, the promise of conversion is a continual call to a transition that would enter into the Paschal
Mystery, the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In short,
our vows call us to a life in common that we might get beyond ourselves and respond to the needs of others, the community, the church, and indeed the world. In our tradition,
that ongoing movement is named “communuio”.
A major transition was celebrated this August here
at the Abbey. Our priest novice, David Driesch, professed
first vows as a religious. With this transition he entered one
step deeper into the life of the community and also realized
more responsibilities. Fr. David will be the Assistant Abbey
Manager, the Assistant Technology Director and work in the
Development Office.
This summer, Abbot Ronald Rossi and Fr. James
Rodia transition to new assignments as well. Fr. Jim
Fr. Ciferni, after many years ministering at the
Abbey, is transitioning for a move to DePere, Wisconsin.
He will be residing at Saint Joseph Priory, on the campus of
Saint Norbert College. He takes up responsibilities as the
Director of the Center for Norbertine Studies at St. Norbert
College.
Bro. Blase Corso transitions from finances and office work to a new phase of his ministry. He will be visiting
the Wellington Facility, providing spiritual visits to residents. Other days, Brother Blase will travel to St. Gabriel
Food Cupboard where he will help with the distribution of
food and the care of the pantry.
Because of some health issues, Fr. Maurice Avicolli no longer serves as pastor of Saint Edmond Parish in
South Philadelphia . In late May he returned from Sursum
Corda to live at the Abbey, where he will continue to remain
active in sacramental ministry at the Abbey and neighboring
parishes.
Last but not least, Bro. Jack Ginder will continue
to assist with caring for the older members of our community as well as now serve in the library. He will coordinate
his new responsibilities with Fr. Cortese, the librarian. •
changes residences from Sursum Corda and moves back to
the Abbey. He leaves parochial work in South Philadelphia
to take up a new ministry as Parochial Vicar at Saints Peter
and Paul Parish in West Chester. Abbot Rossi will begin
July 1 as Parochial Vicar at Saints Simon & Jude Parish,
also in West Chester, as he continues to reside at Daylesford
Abbey.
www.daylesford.org
Fall 2013 | 3
DEVELOPMENT CORNER
By Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
“Faith Shining into the Future.” What a fitting theme as Daylesford Abbey
celebrates fifty years of committed service to the local Church!
For the past fifty years since we first opened our doors on November 13, 1963, the Abbey has been the home for thousands
of men, women and young people seeking a deeper spiritual life. Our on-going spiritual and cultural programs welcome still
others to find and deepen their relationship with God, regardless of religious affiliation. As we celebrate this Golden Anniversary, we thank you for being part of this blessed community and for supporting us through the years with your time, talent and
treasure.
We invite you now to join with other members of the Daylesford Abbey community who have chosen to honor and recognize
this important milestone with a gift to our 50th Anniversary Fund. This special endowment has been established to ensure that
we may extend our ministry for the next fifty years and beyond. The Fund will help us continue to train new priests, honor our
older Professed Norbertines as we care for them in retirement, maintain our facilities and carry on our outreach to the needy.
We’ve set a $1.8 million goal for the 50th Anniversary Fund. A very generous anonymous donor has offered to match all
gifts. For every two dollars given to the 50th Anniversary Fund, we receive another dollar, up to $600,000. We are very grateful to announce that, with the matching funds, 150 members of the Daylesford community have pledged $1.5 million so far
(more than 80% of our goal).
Will you please join others in making a special anniversary gift to the Abbey? We invite you to join us in making a
3-year pledge, perhaps in memory or in honor of a loved one. If we can raise another $200,000 before November, we will
receive another $100,000 in matching funds from our anonymous benefactor and fulfill our goal.
Help us celebrate our past and ensure our future. We hope you will give prayerful consideration to making a special gift to the
Fund. Further information may be obtained by contacting Fr. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem. 610.647-2530, ext. 127 or [email protected]
Thank you again for your past dedication to the Abbey. Do plan to celebrate with us on Sunday, November 3, 2013, at the
special 50th Anniversary Mass celebrated by Archbishop Charles Chaput. We will continue to remember you and your
loved ones in our daily prayers as you join us in “Faith Shining Into the Future.”
Mass Cards Sampling of various Mass cards that are available for various occasions (now available on line
at www.daylesford.org or by calling our receptionist at (610) 647-2530 ext. 100.
4 | Fall 2013
www.daylesford.org
Who could say “No” to Father John Joe?
Tom and Linda Christopher with
Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O.Praem.
By Linda Christopher
D
uring the Fall of 2012 , Father John Joseph Novielli asked to see Tom and me in his office. We set a date and were
anxious to hear what he had to say. Simply, he asked us if we would be able to be the General Chairpersons for the
Dinner Dance 2013 that he was calling, a Gala. This Dinner Dance would be remembered as “The Night of the Great
Gala” and would be a wonderful celebration to culminate the 50th Anniversary of the Abbey. Of course we said yes because Tom and I remember all the times the Norbertines were present in our lives. Like so many others, Norbertines have
been with us in our celebrations of new life, married life and in the dying moments of our loved ones lives.
So off we went, crafting a plan to make this event special. Following the life of St. Therese the Little Flower, we adopted
“The Little Way” and asked people to help in some small way to make this event extraordinary.
If you are reading this article and can help make this event extraordinary by contributing in some small way, we invite you
to join us by contacting Jeanne Byrne in the Development Office 610-647-2530 ext. 118.
Silent Auction Items
Themed Gift Baskets ~ Sports Tickets ~ Theater Tickets
Vacation Homes ~ Restaurant Gift Cards ~ Hotel Overnights ~ Dinners at your Home
Commemorative Book
Unique to the 50th Year
Local parishes, colleges, religious communities, and all vendors who would like to support the Abbey
are asked to take an ad.
Underwriters Needed
An underwriter defrays the cost of some of the expenses: wine, band, flowers, etc.
Can you make a donation to be an underwriter?
Be A Dinner Dance Gala Attendee
The Night of the Great Gala will be held at Waynesborough Country Club
November 22, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.
Contribute to the Circle of Friends
The Abbot’s Circle: $400
The Prior's Circle: $300
Benefactor: $200
Patron: $100
Sponsor: $50
Friend: $25
Jeanne Byrne has been in the Development Office for 14 years and has overseen many programs
such as Annual Giving, the Golf Outing and many of the events surrounding the 50th Anniversary
of the Abbey. Jeanne is ready and waiting to take your call if you can assist with this year’s Dinner
Dance.
Phone: 610-647-2530 ext. 118 Email: [email protected]
www.daylesford.org
Fall 2013 | 5
Ventures in Vocation Ministry
By Rev. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem.
Profession of First Vows for Father David Driesch
On August 28, 2013 the Feast of St. Augustine whose Rule the Norbertines follow, Fr. Dave Driesch professed his first vows as a
Canon Regular of Daylesford Abbey. After completing a Canonical year of Novitiate where he prayed, studied and lived the common life with our community, Father Dave professed the vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience for three years to Abbot Richard
Antonucci. We are thrilled, for the first time in the history of our Abbey, to have a diocesan priest join our ranks. We offer him our
prayers and congratulations on this new chapter in his life. His assignment for this year will be to the internal ministries of the Abbey
and helping in pastoral service to the local parishes and convents.
Fr. William Trader – Novice Priest
Fr. Bill will also be joining the Abbey this year. He has served as Pastor of St. Monica’s Parish in Berwyn for the past 11 years and
has been a frequent visitor to the Abbey for prayer and meals. Fr. Bill has also served in parishes in Bucks, Philadelphia and Delaware counties as well as being Chaplain to Hallahan High School. In addition he served as Auditor for the Marriage Tribunal of the
Archdiocese and for more than 1/3 of his years in priesthood ministered to the African American Church. Fr. Trader said that “St.
Augustine speaks of a restless heart and hearing that passage at prayer at the Abbey for the past 10 years touched my soul. At 65 to
become a Novice, downsize my life and possessions, and to begin again is a real gift. Restlessness only is overcome by resting in
God. So I begin and believe the Lord is with me.” With open arms, we welcome Fr. Bill to our community.
Sam Fulginiti - Affiliate
Sam Fulginiti , 44, entered Daylesford Abbey as an Affiliate in September, 2011 and has spent the last two years residing in the Abbey
and discerning his call to the Norbertine vocation of priesthood. Sam grew up in the Turnersville area of South Jersey and attended
LaSalle University as an English/Psychology major. After graduation, he joined the family public relations/consultant business and
also began a Graduate degree program in Public Relations/Communications at Rowan University. Since moving into the Abbey, Sam
has once again gone back to the classroom to continue studies in Philosophy and Theology at Immaculata University.
Jeff Himes - Affiliate
Jeffrey Himes, 42, was admitted to the Affiliate Program in November, 2012 and began his Affiliate Residence Program here at Daylesford Abbey in January, 2013. During this period of discernment of his Norbertine vocation, Jeff resides at the Abbey, serves as an
Acolyte, takes meals and recreates and prays with the Community -- all while maintaining a full time job at a non-profit agency that
cares for older adults. He is also taking courses at Delaware County Community College in Philosophy and Theology in order to help
him advance in his studies and also assist in his discernment process. Originally from West Chester, Jeff is a former member of St.
Elizabeth Parish in Upper Uwchlan, Chester County, where he was active in many parish activities before moving into the Abbey. He
has a sales/marketing background in the recording business and has worked and lived in California, New York City, and Florida.
Please pray for these men in Formation. You are welcome to join us each Monday at 4:00 p.m.
for Adoration and Vespers praying for Vocations to our Community.
Father David Driesch, O.Praem.
6 | Fall 2013
Father Bill Trader
Sam Fulginiti
Jeff Himes
www.daylesford.org
Battered Not Broken
H
By Gerard Jordan, O. Praem.
ope has been described as a fragile gift that reveals the possibilities that can exist in
tomorrow’s world. Thus, this grace-filled longing has the power to transform us and our
situation. Hope can visit our lives and energize us, if we accept it as grace -- as I saw in
my recent visit to Haiti.
Some say that the people of Haiti are a broken people. But, after even my short time with
them, I would say they are not broken, only battered. Moreover, I now realize that the citizens of this tiny republic had ministered to
me, more than I had ministered to them. How? They introduced me to a hope such as I had never before experienced. There was a
sacredness to their hope that moved me deeply.
In January 2010, Haiti was hit by the most powerful earthquake to strike the country in 200 years. We know that 250,000
people were killed. But missing from the news accounts were, for example, the stories of the 200,000 people who fled Port au Prince
by boat but drowned after their boats capsized from being overloaded. In silence, I stood at the foot of their mass grave. Again, most
of us realize some 300,000 survivors were injured and more than one million people were made homeless. What is not well known is
that these same people continue to live on less than $1 a day, still under the tents that were supposed to be temporary shelters.
Yet, beyond what my “American” eyes and mind can only describe as abject poverty and squalor, on the streets, I saw genuine joy ignited by hope. Many start their day with the Eucharistic celebration, never hesitating to smile or sing. They said they smile
because they have hope and know that “Our God has not abandoned us.” This immediate and jubilant response comes in their thick
creole tongue that translates to “Our God lives with and inside of us to keep us.” Then there were the “new citizens”, children who
number more than 500,000, newly born since the catastrophe. I watched young and old living in the anticipation of something better,
what theology calls the “virtue of hope”.
Yes, enormous problems perdure. More than a million people work industriously in the rice fields and the banana plantations. But, this year, the harvests will be below average because of Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Nonetheless, their optimism does not
fade. Having prayed over the experience, I now see that they are blessed with the same kind of hope that my grandparents had at the
end of the war, my mother sang about during the civil rights movement and my sister clung to after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
The Church in Haiti has a deep inner strength. Even with no rain and no jobs, the people allow God to live in their hearts.
In Christ, with Christ and through Christ, they carry on. With their “fragile gift” they are an extraordinary people, battered but not
broken!
www.daylesford.org
Fall 2013 | 7
The Abbey
Celebrates
50 Years
Looking Back and Looking Forward
Visiting the first home
of the Norbertines
the Cassatt House
now serving as the
Upper Main Line YMCA.
Cassatt House visit
Abbot Richard recalling the past.
Abbot Richard
in his old room.
Then and Now
Father Ted Antry and
Father Joseph Laenen
Father John Joseph Novielli
Father Andrew Ciferni
8 | Fall 2013
www.daylesford.org
Faith the Cornerstone...Faith Shining into the Future
Alumni Weekend - May 3-4, 2013
Stefan Kling, O. Praem.
Sunday, May 5-6, 2013
Official Kick-Off for the 50th Anniversary
May 26, 2013
Celebrating World Organ Day
The Spirituality of Bee Keeping
Abbot Richard with bee keeper Warren Garham
www.daylesford.org
Father David Lawlor
bee keeper
Fall 2013 | 9
Daylesford Abbey Associates
Associate Update
By Rev. Joseph Serano, O. Praem.
Abbey Advisors 2012-2013 (left to right)
Top: Don McGuigan, Dave Hammond,
Tom Christopher, Terry Rosfelder
Bottom: Nancy Santamaria (Formation Director),
Eileen Hotte and Claire Bouchard
New Associates May 2013
Deacon Joseph Houser, Yvonne Houser
and Susan Smith
Since its beginnings in the time of Saint Norbert, our Order has always included lay women and men. Over time, we came to speak
of the First (priests & brothers), Second (sisters) and Third Order
(laity). In fact, when I was in high school in South Philadelphia, we
had a small but faithful group of mostly women who comprised the
“Third Order”. In the aftermath of Vatican II, many Norbertine Abbeys have switched to the designation “Associates” -- and that’s the
name we chose at Daylesford Abbey. Indeed, we are blessed to have
some 65 women and men who have answered a call to be Abbey
Associates.
Becoming an Associate entails a year of “Norbertine Formation”,
with regular sessions to probe more deeply into the lives and teachings of our dual founders, Norbert and Augustine, along with a series
of classes around the components of the Abbey’s mission statement
with special emphasis on the role of personal and communal prayer.
Often these sessions are led by professed members of the Abbey. For
the past three years, I have been happy to share some thoughts on
the Council’s Constitution on the Church, concentrating on Chapter
Five which is entitled “The Universal Call to Holiness”.
Each year, we have a commitment ceremony in the midst of Evening Prayer. Here, Associates make a public statement of their intentions, sign their name to the listing of Associates and receive from
the Abbot a “ministry” for the upcoming year. It might entail a liturgical role (e.g. as acolyte or lector) or a ministry to the needy around
us (e.g. through Outreach) to give but two examples. For some of
our less mobile members, it might simply be an assignment to “pray
for the community and all who ask for our prayerful support”.
New Advisor May 2013
Frances Rhodes
10 | Fall 2013
The leadership of the Associates is in the hands of a group of eight:
Frank Kenney serves as Director along with seven other Associate
Advisors (including an appointed member of the professed community, currently myself). This group meets regularly to plan our four
yearly Chapters (meetings), Advent and Lenten Days of Recollection as well as a yearly overnight retreat. Three of the Advisors also
serve on the Abbot’s Mission Advisory Board. If you would like to
consider joining us, please sign up to come to one of our after Mass
Communion Brunches on September 15 or February 9.
www.daylesford.org
Saying Goodbye to Cam Biggie
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Forever in Our Hearts
On Sunday, June 23rd, the Abbey worshipping community bid farewell to a woman who has
prayed with us for almost fifty years. Cam and her late husband Jim were the founders of the
Annual Dinner Dance. Cam herself began our Annual Art Show which she oversaw for close
to forty years. As an Associate, she will continue to be a part of our lives. We bid her many
blessings as she moves to be with her family in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
In Loving Memory
Rev. Thomas O. Meulemans, O. Praem.,
a Norbertine priest of Daylesford Abbey
passed into eternal life on Tuesday,
December 04, 2012
Rev. Charles T. Urban, O. Praem.,
a Norbertine of Daylesford Abbey
passed into eternal life on Friday,
March 9, 2012 www.daylesford.org
Rev. William R. Craig , O. Praem., a
Norbertine priest of Daylesford Abbey
passed into eternal life on Wednesday,
March 20, 2013
Fall 2013 | 11
SPIR ITUA LIT Y CENTER
FALL PROGR AM GUIDE • 2013
Letter From the Director...
Linda Christopher
In November of 2012, the Spirituality Center focused on programs that
would celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Daylesford Abbey. Hopefully,
these programs provided insights into the Norbertine way of life and
charism. As we end this momentous year for the Norbertine community this November, you will have the opportunity to learn about
St. Augustine, his rule, his sermons and sayings and you might enjoy
watching a newly released film entitled Restless Heart.
Additionally, you might explore two planks of the Abbey mission statement: contemplation and hospitality. A program on Martha and Mary,
a Day of Retreat for Men and the quiet of two Taizé Prayer Services
will provide the venue to explore these two integral parts of the mission. There will be offerings planned by the Peace and Social Justice
Committee throughout the fall and a workshop on Meditation will be
Two Breakfast Talks
Using Augustine and Aquinas
to Explore Political Theory
Presenter: John Burke, Ph.D.
Date: September 26 (Thursday)
Time: 8:45 a.m. (Daily Mass at 8:00 a.m.)
Offering: $10 per person
(includes light morning refreshments)
This reflection will discuss how the writings of Augustine and
Aquinas lead to quite different political theories. Whereas Augustine
is clearly skeptical about whether a truly just realm can be achieved
in this world, Aquinas is much more confident that a just government
and society can be undertaken based on Christian moral principles.
After comparing and contrasting their positions, the presentation will
suggest contemporary updates on this debate in the work of Reinhold
Niebuhr, John Paul II, and liberation theology.
held in September.
Embrace the wisdom of St. Augustine as he reminds us, “You have
made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they
rest in You.” This fall, find time to awaken your spirit and support the
good work of the Spirituality Center.
Book Discussion
The Good Pope by Greg Tobin
Facilitator: Father David Driesch
Dates: October 24, 31, November 7, 14 (Thursdays)
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Offering: $40 per person
The recent celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the death of Pope
John XXIII has sparked a renewed interest in the early days of Vatican
Council II and his involvement with the council. In this biography,
Greg Tobin transports us back in time to witness the humility, sanctity,
and the spiritual celebrity of the Good Pope who would forever change
the Catholic Church. In commenting about this book, Fr. James
Martin, SJ, says “You cannot understand contemporary Catholicism
without understanding Pope John XXII.” The story of Good Pope John
is always worth telling. Come join in our discussion about the life of
Pope John and his vision of aggiornamento.
12 | Fall 2013
Connecting with God, Self, and Community in
a Hyper-Connected World: Reflections on Life in
the Information Age from Thomas Merton’s Writings
on Communication and Technology
Presenter: Nick Rademacher, Ph.D.
Date: November 6 (Wednesday)
Time: 8:45 a.m. (Daily Mass at 8:00 a.m.)
Offering: $10 per person (includes light morning refreshments)
Thomas Merton, writing in the middle twentieth-century, already
recognized that the proliferation of technology was, paradoxically,
making it increasingly difficult for people—both individually and in
community—to live in right relationship with God, self and others.
Such a breakdown in right relationship in each of these related areas
fostered social injustice. According to Merton, the healing of this
brokenness was possible only through prayer and genuine dialogue.
The purpose of this talk is to explore Merton’s writing on technology
and communication as a way to formulate an authentic presence—a
presence that connects us to God, one another, and ourselves—in the
midst of today’s accelerating information-overload.
To Register: (610) 647-2530 ext. 133 or e-mail:
[email protected]
www.daylesford.org
www.daylesford.org
Fall Programs

Meditation Workshop
Spiritual Suppers
The Sacred Ground of Presence
Meditation Practices for Daily Life
Presenter: Dr. Katherine Hammond Holtz, Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist
Date: September 28 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Offering: $50 per person, $10 (students)
Registration: All registrations are needed by September 20 and participants will need to complete a series of questions before attending
the program. Contact Kathryn Roper for a registration form at
610-647-2530 ext. 100
Lunch: Please bring your lunch as “eating meditation” will be a part
of the program.
Other Items to Bring: Please bring a light blanket for lying down and
a meditation cushion if you have one. Chairs will also be available.
Come and discover the benefits of meditation. Meditation creates a
deep and rich connection with the sacredness of each moment of life.
Meditation involves real contact with your breath, yourself, others,
and your surroundings. This kind of real presence in meditation leads
to an overall sense of well-being that allows life to be grounding and
restorative, no matter what circumstances you are facing. Meditation
opens the heart to awareness, healing, and transformation and makes
us more aware of God’s presence in our lives.
When meditation is practiced regularly, it leads to greater energy and
enthusiasm for life, the ability to respond more effectively to stressful
situations, improved concentration, and lasting decreases in psychological and physical symptoms.
This day together will include an orientation to what meditation is
with instruction and hands-on experience in sitting and walking
meditation, lying down meditation (deep relaxation), eating meditation, and meditative movement. Ages 18 and up are invited to attend
this gentle restorative day.
Taizé Prayer Services
Presenters: Clare Gavin and Dr. Edward Latham
Dates: October 21 and December 2 (Mondays)
Time: 7:00 pm.
In French, “Taisez-vous” means “quiet yourself.” Come and enjoy
the music, the silence, and the prayer as we gather in the Abbey
Church. An evening of reflection in the tradition of Taizé is a simple
and beautiful way to experience the real presence of Christ. This
prayer service provides a rare opportunity to find a quiet space in a
very busy world. Take time to join us as Clare Gavin and Dr. Ted
Latham lead the meditative, repeating chants that characterize the
Taizé style and are meant to lead a community into prayerful sung
reflection through their graceful simplicity.
www.daylesford.org
Three Tuesdays with Father Joseph Serano
An October Series Devoted to Just
Peacemaking: Peace and Social Justice
Dates: October 8, 15, 29 (Tuesdays)
Time: 5:40 p.m. (Dinner); 6:30 p.m. (Presentation)
Offering: Three sessions: $60 per person (includes dinner);
Three sessions: $35 per person (presentation only); Pay as
you go $25 per person (includes dinner) $15 (presentation only)
This is the first of “four modules” on the way Catholics understand
the call to Peace and Justice. It concentrates on the reality of war
and violence and the need for a spirituality of nonviolent peacemaking. Like the modules to come, there will be three sessions. Each
of these three Tuesdays will look at the data, the church’s teachings
and the possibilities for change. (The Oct 15th session will be built
around a short film on the life of Franz Jaggerstatter, an Austrian
Catholic who refused to participate in Hitler’s wars.) While Fr.
Serano will have a prepared presentation each session, there will be
ample room for comments and questions.
Two Part Series on St. Augustine
I: The Sermons and Sayings of St. Augustine
Date: November 5 (Tuesday)
Time: 5:45 p.m. (Dinner); 6:30 p.m. (Presentation)
Facilitator: Father David Driesch
Offering: Two sessions: $40 per person (includes dinner);
Two sessions: $25 per person (presentation only); Pay as
you go $25 per person (includes dinner) $15 (presentation
only)
St. Augustine is known for his several books but many people are
not aware of his sermons and sayings that were written down and
have survived since the fourth and fifth century. This talk will
focus on some of the more popular themes of St. Augustine’s sermons. To this very day, his insights are still relevant for us and can
guide us to a better relationship with God and one another.
II: Augustine’s Rule and the Contemporary Christian
Date: November 12 (Tuesday)
Time: 5:45 p.m. (Dinner); 6:30 p.m. (Presentation)
Facilitator: Abbot Richard Antonucci
St. Augustine’s synthesis of the gospel and how it can be lived is
found in his Rule or Way of Life. Though written for those committed to sharing a common life, its insights are also of practical
use for anyone wanting to walk in the way of Christian discipleship.
Fall 2013 | 13
Advent Overnight Retreat
Women’s Day
of Retreat:
“Preparing for the Lord’s Coming”
Dates: December 13-14 (Friday to Saturday)
Presenter: Father Joseph Serano
Offering: $140 per person, $190 per person (staying for
Saturday dinner and second overnight)
Beginning with dinner on Friday evening and continuing through
Evening Prayer on Saturday, this overnight retreat will be led by
Father Joseph Serano,O.Praem. His three conferences will build
around the three biblical figures highlighted in the Advent Sunday
readings: the prophet Isaiah, John the Baptist and Mary, the Mother
of the Lord. There will be ample time for personal quiet, an opportunity for the sacrament of Reconciliation as well as an invitation
to group sharing. Retreatants will join the Norbertine community for
prayer and meals. Those who wish may also stay for Saturday dinner
and the overnight, joining us for Mass on Sunday.
Martha, Mary, and Me
Presenters: Clare Gavin and Peggy
Walsh
Date: November 9
(Saturday)
Offering: $35.00 per person
For twenty centuries we have been aware
of the stereotypes connected to Martha and Mary. In that familiar story Jesus spoke of the “better part”.
Through music, words and reflection you are invited to go deeper
with the “better part”, to a place of compassion for the “server” and the
“listener”, while acknowledging and embracing each of them for yourself in a way that we hope is liberating.
The Two Tables of First Friday
First Friday Annointing Masses followed by Lunch
Blessing of the Christmas Tree
Date: December 22 (after the 10:30 a.m. Mass)
This year, we invite you to bring two dozen of your Christmas
cookies to share with the Abbey Community and bring your recipe
to share with others unless of course the recipe is a family secret!
There also will be ornaments to buy and take home or to decorate the
Abbey tree. Christmas songs will be sung to get us into the spirit of
joy around the tree.
The symbolism of the Christmas tree today. . . The fir tree
is an evergreen--it does not die or fade away or lose its needles in
the winter. In this sense it has come to represent the immortality of
the resurrected Christ. The lights in the Christmas tree also have a
deeper meaning. Originally the lights used were candles. The candles too were meant to symbolize Christ, specifically his self-giving
love and gift of life to us. The candle provides light and warmth as it
consumes its own substance, the wax. So, too, did Jesus give of his
own substance--his life--so that we might find divine light. And when
we have found divine light for ourselves, we too are enabled through
the power of the Holy Spirit to give of ourselves to others. After all,
Christmas is the feast of love, where we share gifts with each other
as Christ shared the gift of life with us.
Men’s Day of Retreat
The Wind Beneath My Wings
Presenter: Father Francis Danielski
Date: November 2 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Offering: $35.00 per person
A Retreat Day based on the book, “Tell My Sons: A Father’s Last
Letters”. This day will be a journey into the relationship between
fathers and sons. Giving thanks for the good times in this season and
making amends for the not so good times. The book is based on a
true story.
To Register: (610) 647-2530 ext. 133 or e-mail:
[email protected]
www.daylesford.org
14 | Fall 2013
Dates: September 6, October 4, November 1, December 6,
January 3, February 7, March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6
Mass Time: 11:00 a.m. Offering: $10 for lunch.
Contemplative Cinema Series

Restless Heart
Date: September 29 (Sunday) Brunch and Sunday Matinee
Facilitator: Father Theodore Antry
Offering: $20 (with brunch); $15 (program only)
The title, of course, comes from the classic line on the first page
of “The Confessions” of St. Augustine . The newly released movie,
Restless Heart, follows Augustine through this restlessness. We watch
him as a youth, pursuing mastery of the art of rhetoric, convinced that
the fame and power which would flow from it would eventually satisfy
him. When that failed, he turned to physical pleasure. From there he
drifted through several Gnostic philosophies, including Manichaeism,
a Christian heresy. And again, nothing satisfied. Even after pouring
himself into fame, power, money, pleasure, and cults he was still left
searching for something more. It wasn’t until he encountered Christ
and his Church that he realized how empty his indulgences were. Only
then were all his longings and all his seeking fulfilled.
Blessing of the Animals
Date: October 5 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Mary Garden (off of the Spirituality Center parking lot)
Registration: Please let us know if you will join us so we have treats
on hand for your furry and not so furry friends: 610-647-2530 ext. 133.
In celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi celebrated each year
on October 4, we invite you and your pet to the Mary Garden located
near the entrance of the Spirituality Center. There will be a special
blessing of the animals by one of the Norbertine priests. Please be
certain that you bring disposal bags to clean up after your furry friend
– this will keep the Abbey grounds looking wonderful! Treats will be
distributed and all animals MUST be on a leash or crated.
www.daylesford.org
Art Show 2013
/
Come Meet This Year’s Artists!
/
Get Your Christmas Shopping Done Early!
October 4 through October 13
Opening Reception
Friday, October 4, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
(Complimentary Wine and Cheese)
The Art Show Hours beginning October 5 will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
and the show will remain open until Sunday, October 13.
Consider Joining the Women and Men
of Daylesford Abbey
Vision Statement
The vision of the Abbey’s Lay Women and Men
entails coming together to be spiritually nourished, to enjoy
community, to faith share and to assist the Norbertine Priests
and Brothers of Daylesford Abbey to carry out their mission.
• Be spiritually fed and enlightened…
Communion Brunches
Spirituality Center Programs and Retreats
• Be a part of the many fun-filled events…
Annual Bus Trip to Broadway
Beef and Beer
Cabaret Dinner Theater
Support for the Art Show, Golf Outing and Dinner Dance
• Be part of a wonderful community!
Mail:
REGISTRATION AT THE CENTER
Attention:
Email:
Daylesford Abbey
220 So. Valley Rd. Paoli, PA 19301
Linda Christopher
[email protected]
Let us add you to the mailing and eBulletin lists!
Women and Men of Daylesford Abbey!
[email protected]
Ph. 610-647-2530 ext. 150
Private Retreat Information
Time to Rest in the Arms of God
Contact Linda Christopher for more information
610-647-2530 ext. 135
To register online, visit www.daylesford.org, click on
Calendar, and select the event of your choice.
Phone:
610.647.2530 ext.133
Fax:
610.651.0219
Register early and please do not let the cost prevent you
from attending. Partial Scholarships are available.
For more detailed information,
please contact Linda Christopher.
Group Discounts: For 10 or more persons,
please apply a 10% discount for any program or retreat.
www.daylesford.org
Fall 2013 | 15
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Y L E S F O R D
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220 South Valley Road, Paoli, PA 19301
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The Bell Tower throughout the seasons . . .
The bells were cast at the Elijsbouts Foundry in the Netherlands and purchased in April 1966.
The largest bell weighs 827 lbs. and has the inscription:
MARY HAS BEEN TAKEN UP INTO HEAVEN
The medium bell weighs 496 lbs. and has the inscription:
ST. JOSEPH, PATRON OF THE DYING, PRAY FOR US.
The smallest bell weighs 254 lbs. and has the inscription:
HOLY FATHER, NORBERT, BE OUR LIGHT.
The Bell Tower was designed in the
shape of a negative cross by Father
Hubert Beaudoin, O. Praem.