Dennis Frandrup, OSB, guides guests on trolley during Oblate and Family Day, 2008

Lots of laughter and smiley faces gave evidence of the enjoyment experienced by all on Sunday, May 18—Oblate and Family Day celebrated at Saint Benedict’s Monastery. Guests arrived in time to attend the Eucharist, with a box lunch following in the Monastery Dining Room.

Although the weather was rather cool, many guests went on trolley rides around campus. Sisters served as tour guides on these jaunts. The Art and Heritage Place and Whitby Gift Shop welcomed many visitors, too. Mary Schaffer presented a well-attended talk entitled, “Uncommon Sense” at 2 p.m. in the Monastery Dining Room. This presentation illuminated the current Haehn Museum exhibit, Insight and Access into the Divine: Experiencing the Holy through the Visual, and how symbolism is part of the liturgy.

However, the longest activity was the polka band, consisting of four musicians—Sister Margaret Maus, Gilly Maus, Joyce Maus and Don Saehr. The band played in the landscaped center area in front of the Gathering Place, an ideal spot for those wanting to dance while onlookers sat on the circular wall. The two-step was a favorite, as well as the “chicken dance”. The Sisters were especially grateful to the band for their gift of music, so enjoyed by everyone.

Registration figures show that approximately 210 guests came to Family/Oblate Day—a combination of Sisters’ relatives and friends  (177), along with 33 Oblates. A special “Thank you!” to everyone who visited Saint Benedict’s Monastery during the day.