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Work |
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In order to be as self-supporting as possible, the Brothers produce saleable wares as well as tending their own sheep, goats, chickens and rabbits which provide food for the table as well as an extra source of income when some can be sold. The following details some of the work currently undertaken by the Brothers. Tending the AnimalsAnimals are kept close to the community centre at night but are released into other paddocks further afield for grazing during the day. The grazing assists in keeping the foliage on the floor of the paddocks low as a fire-prevention measure. The animals' feed is supplemented by the Brothers, particularly in times of drought.
Gathering WoodThe only electricity on the property is that provided by a few solar panels. The main meal each day is cooked on a large wood-burning stove (an excellent heater in the winter!) and water for baths or showers is heated by a wood fire. Each hermitage has its own wood fire for heating during winter. A large stock of wood is therefore necessary and readily available in the paddocks on the property. Some trees die and fall of their own accord, others are struck by lightning. Whatever the cause, the tree trunks are sawn into useable blocks and collected for the wood piles.
Gardening
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Building the Community Building |
Guest Cottage under construction |
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Guest Cottage |
Guest Cottage - inside |
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Community Building (with Prayer Room) |
Bathhouse with fire to heat water |
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Hermitage |
Hermitage |
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| Refectory nearing completion | Refectory |
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Preparation Room (entrance to Prayer Room) |
Prayer Room |
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Prayer Room |
Prayer Room |
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Hayrack |
Goat Dairy |
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The Library - the most recent project |
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The making of a Holding Cross is a loving work of art. Every cross is carved individually and is blessed before it is sent to a recipient.
What
is a Holding Cross?A Holding Cross fits nearly into the palm of the hand and the fingers wrap comfortably around it. The constant presence of the cross in your hand or where you can touch it is both an invitation to prayer and a reminder of God's continued presence with us wherever we are or whatever situation we are in.
When sick or faced with difficulties, just touch the cross to be reminded of the cross of Christ and Him crucified. You can use whatever short prayer speaks to your heart and helps you to pray, like the following centring prayers:
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Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me. |
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Lord Jesus, your heart burns with love for me: inflame my heart with love for you. |
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Jesus |
| God is love |
When words fail or it is difficult to pray, just hold the cross as an act of prayer and of love for God.
| © 2004-2008 Little Brothers of Francis Last updated: 31 August, 2008 |