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The Family Meal

“A family united in prayer before a meal, honoring God as their Heavenly Father and source of all blessings, is a truly beautiful sight. When the head of the household gives thanks to God for the food, it brings a sacred spirit to the table.” ~ St. John Kronstadt 



The dining table is the most sacred icon in the Orthodox faith. There was once a traveling monk spending a few days at a parish. After liturgy, the parishioners bustled about to prepare coffee hour, when someone spotted a broken light. In an instant, a kind fellow climbed up onto a small table to replace the lightbulb. The monk gasped. “Oh no! Please don’t step on the table. Tables are sacred. They are icons of the holy altar.”

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When Was the Schism?

When was the Schism between Eastern and Western Christianity? St. Nectarios of Aegina rejected the date 1054, insisting: “no Ecumenical Council had been convened, nor a major Synod, nor was the Pope excommunicated, nor was it confirmed that all the Patriarchs had agreed.” He proposed the year 1449. It most certainly was not at 1054. The following article was written by Seraphim Popov:

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Farm Hand Wanted – Summer Position

Spend your summer in a place of quiet, peace, and prayer.
We are looking for a temporary farm hand to help tend to our livestock, weed, clear brush, learn animal husbandry and help us build our dream of an agrarian Orthodox community in Northern Texas. No farm experience is needed — just willingness to work hard. This is an unpaid position. We can provide a free place to stay in one of our tiny homes, regular warm meals, and a great community experience. A farm hand needs to be 18+ years old and have a blessing from a priest. Let us know if you are interested or have questions.

There are also tiny homes available for long-term staying. People who live on the farm for an extended time are required to work 10 hours per week and pay a small rent. We know a lot of people in town and can find you paying work in the local community.

Reach out if you have any questions!

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Spiritual Retreat at the Ave Maria Farm

Ave Maria Farm Retreat
Spiritual Retreat and Community Garden Planting
March 9-14

We are gearing up for our third Spring Retreat and Community Garden Planting at the Ave Maria Farm. If you are interested in attending please reach out by email: Father Kavanaugh@gmail.com

This will be an opportunity for prayer, fellowship, and hard work as we plant our community garden — putting St. Benedict’s philosophy to practice: Ora et Labora! Please feel welcome to participate in whatever manner you are comfortable and reach out if you have questions. Here is the itinerary and a few matters to help you prepare and have a great time.

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