Over
60 folks gather at the old Farm House as Glenmary
president Father Jerry Dorn begins the rededication
service. One of the four stained glass windows created
by local artist Charley Campbell can be seen above
the porch roof. These widows adorn the newly
created chapel space inside.
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| Father
Jerry, in his benediction, focuses on the sacredness
of the land and the bounty created in the lives
of all the young people who have spent time at the
Farm in prayer and in service. Many former volunteers
were present for the rededication. |
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The
group processes to the Staff House which has
been raised eight feet above ground to protect it
from any future floodwaters. The renovated interior
has three bedrooms for Farm managers and guests.
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| Father
Jerry incenses the foundation of the new Volunteer
House. The lower level, with bunks to sleep 40,
has special doors and windows to allow floodwaters
to pass through with minimal damage. The dining
hall is upstairs. |
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| The
procession heads back to the Farm House for Mass.
Father Jerry asked folks to process in silence to
focus on the blessedness of this occasion. He sprinkled
holy water as they walked, calling attention to
the sacredness of the earth. |
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| Father
Jerry celebrates Mass in the new Farm House chapel.
(The
loft has been removed to create a cathedral ceiling.)
Brother Jack Henn recalled the Farm's history,
including the generosity of local residents who
extend such warm hospitality. Father Dan Dorsey
looked ahead to the future. |
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The
kitchen in the new Volunteer House gleams as Farm
Manager Janel Aleson, Volunteer Coordinator Susan
Hellmann, and local parishioner Carol Campbell organize
for the potluck supper following Mass. Janel is
responsible for new curtains throughout.
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The
potluck supper in the new Volunteer House brought
together Glenmarians, former Farm volunteers and
residents of Lewis County, including clients from
Comprehend, one of the Farm's regular work sites.
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The
view from the wraparound porch at the new Volunteer
House. For an exterior
view of this new structure, click here. The
porch promises to become as popular a gathering
spot on warm summer evenings as the swimming
hole is for the more daring.
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