Page 95 - San Angelo

The monks are primarily self suffcient and keep an herb and vegetable garden, goats, and chickens. Additionally, most of the buildings in the Hermitage are constructed with rocks uncovered during the building and excavation process. But the sturdy frame and simple pattern of rocks and mortar are the unsuspecting shell of reverent beauty on the inside.

The doors of the church where mass is held are cemented with chunks of vibrant glass depicting the burning alter in 1st Kings when Elijah was on Mount Carmel. If the light is right, the sun will ignite the glass and spill mixtures of vermillion, saffron, and a sea of blue and green onto the aisle and pews. The walls of the church are lined with stained glass representations of the sacraments, emblazoned with iron, crimson, and cobalt. The enveloping aesthetical beauty and symbolism of the elements in the church inspire veneration and peace. For the past 20 years, Father Fabian, Brother John David, Brother Martin Mary, Brother Joseph Mary, and Brother Albert Mary, have observed a life of silence, solitude and penance, but readily invite the public to visit for prayer, participate in Mass, and see their store. Father Fabian explained, “We very much live a communal life like a regular household. Everyone has tasks and responsibilities. Each monk cooks, cleans, sews, works, and participates in mass and daily prayer time. ” As part of their daily routine, the men produce various breads, jellies, and sweets that can be purchased at the Hermitage or at their online store (www.carmelitehermits.org). The Hermitage store has gifts ranging from the delectable to the delicate including crosses, religiously inspired household items, and homemade food.. Kristin Huber of San Angelo reminisces that her family donated a rug to the Hermitage for a fundraiser and received a box of fudge as a thank you. “It was incredible and a really nice gesture,” Huber mused. Philanthropy and prayer offerings are not the only relations the monks share with the surrounding communities.