The vegetable garden

Daily life in the Convent Each morning after a prayer and a wash we dress quickly and hurry to the chapel where the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament is waiting for us. At a sign from Mother Abbess we begin the first part of the Divine Office. The day is given to us by God, so we ask Him to bless it that it may be entirely bright and holy. We join the whole creation in praising the Creator. The theme of joy and praise is strong in these morning prayers, echoing throughout the hymns, psalms and readings. After breakfast, we prepare for Holy Mass with half an hour's silent prayer as this is the focal point of the day, for every time we celebrate Mass all the suffering and agony of mankind is present. Through that offering love, forgiveness and hope are in some way being given, not just to this community, but like the pebble cast into the pond, the ripples go on and on outwards. It is our earthly way of being involved in the great heavenly liturgy which is going on all the time. Morning Prayer and Terce follow, after which we go off to our appointed tasks remembering the words. "Go in the peace of Christ", which the priest bids us at the close of Mass. Now ordinary work begins, correspondence, cleaning, laundry and cooking for the community, the chaplain and any guests who may be staying with us. The sisters are kept busy between door and telephone bells and the Bursar  sees to the business affairs of the house and deals with unseen emergencies. A Day Retreat and Conference Centre has recently been opened in  the grounds of the convent so we are kept busy organising the centre. By 12 o'clock we are ready to send our next shaft of praise back up to heaven. Work is set aside as we gather to sing Midday Prayer. Then comes a short pause as we review the day so far and appraise our part in it by examining our consciences. The main meal of the day follows, and we eat without speaking to each other while a spiritual book is being read. After dinner there is time to write letters or do odd jobs for oneself. Many take the opportunity to go out and work in the large garden where we grow our own fruit, vegetables and flowers. After 4 o'clock we return to the Chapel for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, meditation and the Rosary, followed by Vespers or Even Song when we thank God for all His blessings. After a light meal we gather for an hour's recreation which is a happy time of relaxation  together until 7.15, when the bell rings for night prayer. We ask God for protection and forgiveness at the end of the day. At 7.30 the Great Silence begins. Final tasks of the day are completed and at 9.30 all must be in their cells with lights are out by 10.30. There is a certain pattern to each day yet they all differ from each other. Adoration of the Eucharist is of utmost importance, especially on Sundays, for "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and exult in it".  Another week in our life with God is beginning, so we rejoice.