Dear Friends in Christ,

Christ is in our midst!

We write to you with hearts full of thanksgiving as we witness the abundant blessings unfolding around our monastery this season. This year, by God’s grace and through much labor, our gardens have become a reflection of His beauty, order, and providence.

On the South side of the house, we’ve planted a new wildflower garden in the center of the lawn. The first blossoms—bachelor’s buttons and poppies—are now opening, bringing vibrant color and gentle movement to the space. Along the berm on Williams Road, wildflowers from previous years have returned in rich hues of red, yellow, orange, and pink. Their presence greets us each time we come home, reminding us of the continual renewal God works in both nature and the soul. The sweet williams in particular are a delight to behold—small signs of joy standing steadfast in the breeze.

We’ve been working steadily on the slope against the house, adding new plantings to the existing daffodils, hostas, and St. John's wort. Bit by bit, we’ve cleared away the weeds and laid down mulch, doing the quiet work that, like prayer, is hidden but fruitful. We’ve also planted several trees and beloved pussy willows this year—among them crabapple, chestnut, and wild plum—all of which we pray will grow strong and offer shade, nourishment, and beauty in the years to come.

In our greenhouse, the tomato plants are flourishing with remarkable vigor. Their rich green leaves are full and healthy, and the first fruits are already ripening on the vine. We have even enjoyed harvesting a few early tomatoes—bursting with flavor and warm from the sun—a small foretaste of the abundant harvest to come. This early gift is a reminder that God’s blessings often arrive quietly, before we expect them, bearing witness to His goodness.

With greater diligence, we’ve been tending our grounds as a whole. The mowed lawns and carefully trimmed edges are not just outward signs of care, but expressions of reverence for the land that has been entrusted to us. As monastics, we strive to live in harmony with creation, always remembering that the garden, too, is a place of communion and sanctification.

Our bees are thriving, buzzing among the blossoms and faithfully gathering nectar. We expect another bountiful harvest of honey this year—a sweet gift from God and His creation. The gentle hum of the hives seems to echo the ceaseless prayer that undergirds our daily life here.

The rest of the gardens and orchards are likewise doing well. Our young fruit trees are growing steadily, not yet bearing fruit, but showing promise. The garlic is ready for use, and the onions are strong and healthy. Beets, chard, potatoes, cucumbers, and squash are all maturing beautifully.

We were especially blessed with a tremendous harvest of strawberries this year—so much so that we have not been able to preserve them all. They have filled our tables and our hands with more than we need, a true reminder of God’s overflowing generosity. The rhubarb harvest was equally rich, bringing forth many pies and jars of preserves. Now, the red raspberries and black currants are beginning to ripen, and the harvest is already underway.

In all of this, we see the mercy of God and the fruits of labor offered in love. Every flower, every fruit, every task is a chance to offer glory to the Creator and to sanctify the time and space He has given us.

Thank you, as always, for your prayers, your kindness, and your support. May our Lord continue to bless and keep you, and may His peace reign in your hearts.

With love in Christ,

The Sisters of Iveron Mother of God Monastery