Little Portion Gardens

 Winter 2011

 

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 Spring/Summer 2010

  

 

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Fall 2009

 

Beautiful Garden Areas September 2009

 

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An abundant amount of rain this summer and fall keep the gardens looking 
lush and provide a beautiful backdrop to this year's general gathering.

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JMT Ministries: Louisiana Ministry

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Poland Ministry

JMT leading Holy Is His Name with the Conventual Franciscan Friars in the Refectory
(Dining Room). There are over 100 in the house, including the seminarians from all
over the world. There is a vibrant, youthful spirit there, but vocations are slowly
going down. They are only 50% of what they were a few years ago. Not as bad as
the US, but Poland needs ministry too.

We had a great press conference today in Warsaw. We had a great showing of
religious and secular press from both newspapers and TV. We were told that the
animation and joy of the presentation was very different from what they expected
based on normal religious press conferences. We had a blast!!!

One of a few tv interviews, this one was with a general station representing all religions.
We had a great conversation regarding jesus complimenting, and completing all other faiths.

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Cell Group Meeting at the Monastery

 

October 2010 Texas/Florida Itinerant Ministry

 

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September 2009 Oklahoma/Colorado Itinerant Ministry

We had a great visit with Bishop Arthur Tafoya of Pueblo CO this afternoon.
We discussed the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, the new direction of my
itinerant ministry, and ministry in Latin America. The Spirit of God was with
us, and the friendship of ministry in Jesus united us. We look forward to
coming back to Pueblo in the future. Thank you, Bishop Tafoya, for your
welcome and blessing.

JMT playing for children before the concert.

JMT ministry for a homeless mission.

JMT with Student Music Group in Shawnee, OK

JMT giving a concert at St. Gregory's Abbey in Shawnee, OK

JMT giving a talk to high school students at Sr. Mary's in Oklahoma City

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Group photo of retreatants who attended John Michael Talbot's retreat,
"The Lessons of St. Francis".  Ten have expressed interest in the BSC
Domestic expression! 

Four celebrations were honored at same retreat.  From front:
Hal & Pamm Holdeman of Dallas, TX  - 30th Wedding Anniversary
Clarence & Mary Lou Krus of Nacogdaches, TX - 60th Wedding Anniversary
Joan & Bob Sorg, both BSCD members - 42nd Wedding Anniversary
Fr. Lambert Leykam, OFM, Crowley, TX (back left) - 60th Anniversary
      as a Franciscan Priest

 

Sr. Mary Catherine, our main vegetable gardener, displays some of the produce
donated to our local food bank, Loaves and Fishes.

  

John Michael with the retreatants at the recently held
Come to the Quiet retreat at our retreat center on MORE Mountain.        

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  5th Grade Vocations Day

 
Sr. Mary Rose and Sr. Juliana Laura attended the 5th Grade Vocations
Day hosted by Subiaco Abbey.  Fifth graders from many schools throughout
the diocese of Little Rock attended.

Sr. Juliana Laura (left) and Sr. Mary Rose (right) enjoy lunch and a respite
from talking!

At the conclusion of the Mass presided over by Bishop Anthony Taylor the
religious who attended the workshop presented each child with a cross
to commemorate the day.

The day was concluded with a celebration of the Mass presided by Bishop
Anthony Taylor.

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This week I have had the pleasure of presenting a series on Music,

teaching, and Christian Meditation at the Cathedral of the Incarnation

in Nashville. Tonight, Thursday, March 12, 2009  it was a true honor

to be joined by two good friends and extraordinary musicians, Phil Keaggy

and Michael Card. An added surprise was the presence of our mutual mentor,

Billy Ray Hearn, founder of Sparrow records and one of the founding fathers

of Christian Contemporary Music. It was a night to be remembered.

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot

 

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Arkansas was covered in prayer and music in a near-full chapel at Little Portion Retreat Center
during the February Canopy of Prayer lead by John Michael Talbot,Little Portion, Rev Phil Wilson,
First Christian, Rev David Kline, Valley View Baptist, Rev Rachel Love, First Assembly of God,
Rev Stan Adams, United Methodist, Rev Allan Thrasher, HI Community, Rev Marvin Peters,
and Rev Mike Mercer, Beaver Lake Fellowship. John Michael's message suggested all use the
next forty days -'Lent'- to duplicate Jesus' 40 days of prayer in the desert.

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Peace and Good in Christ!

We are halfway through our Ireland Tour, so I thought I should write an update. We are in the
quaint village of Turmenfeckin, the "mound of Feckin." Apparently, Feckin was a local saint back in
ancient Celtic Christian times. We are in the Waterside Inn. 

It is a very nice place above a typical village pub/restaurant. Everyone is so friendly. If we look
directly down outside the window in our room, we can see the gentle waters of a little stream
that eventually flows into the Irish Sea not far from here.

The church of the Immaculate Conception is right across the little bridge. The church is set on a
beautiful little hill that is right out of our rather mythical concept of an Irish village. It is lovely.
Tonight the concert promises to be well attended.

Yesterday we were in a retreat house right on the Irish Sea for an afternoon presentation
to some priests of the Diocese of Armagh. It was a combination of music and meditation
that attempted to bring prayer and mediation back into the busy life of the Irish parish
priest. From all accounts it went quite well.

On our day off around the Portadown concert we visited a new Olivetan Benedictine
monastery of six men. This had special significance in light of our monastery fire
rebuilding project. We received a full tour and explanation of the new impressive building.

The concerts have been wonderful! Starting in Belfast we moved on to Portadown and
Derry/Londonderry. The violence is still a painful memory for the older generations, but
the youth do not even remember the troubled times. Yes, issues still exist, but most
folks just want to get on with the normal things of life like raising kids in a peaceful
environment. Of course, it could all blow up with terrorism by a few at any time
but the prevalent environment is now one of peace and moving forward.

As in the States, the concerts seem to bring an experience of peace in the midst of our
hectic western society. I am always thankful to God that such simple scripture songs
minister so deeply to so many. And I am surprised that this seems so unique among
Christian music of any kind. Oh well, all I do is pray,
sing, and play. God does the rest.

In Jesus,
John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

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2008 Concert in Berryville, AR

John Michael gave a well-attended concert on Friday, October 3, 2008 at the First Assembly
of God church in Berryville,Arkansas kicking off Little Portion's 25th anniversary celebration.
Many thanks to Pastor Keith Butler for the use of their beautiful church.

Youth attending the concert began the second half with a surprise performance of All Life Long
written by John Michael and recorded on his 48th album, Monk Rock.

            

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  TRIDUUM AND EASTER SUNDAY 2011

The youth gathered to make pretzels for our seder meal.

Our girls dressed in their "middle east" dresses - western style!

We began our first Triduum in the new common center on Holy Thursday evening.

Abigail lent a hand to Maddie for the footwashing.

Good Friday prostration.

Good Friday reading of the Passion.

Veneration of the Cross.

JMT chanting the Reproaches.

We began our Easter Vigil outside under the covered porch
because of the rain.

Richard Ims chanted the Exaltation.

Fr. Lambert blessing the congregation.

I Am The Bread of Life was sung after Communion.

Mark basting hams for our Easter dinner.

Easter egg hunters unite!

An informal gathering before Easter dinner.

Our Founder and Foundress enjoying their meal with Fr. Lambert, Mark Shepler, and
friend of the community, Jeri Peters.

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Christmas 2010

Advent Retreat: We were privileged to have JMT as our retreat master this year.

Retreat in our new recreation room.

Baking muffins for our gift baskets.

Caroling at the local convalescent hospital.

Caroling down the hallways for those unable to come out of their rooms.

Lighting the Advent wreath at Compline.

Decorating Christmas cookies.

Decorating a tree in our new dining room.

Making chocolate snowmen pretzels.

Chinese Christmas with our local domestic members on cell group night.

Sr. Juliana gets a bag that will go with Cisco's purse organizer.

Caroline gets an exercise ball with pump.

JMT leading carols on Christmas eve.

Therese did a great job reading the Christmas story.

Our newest member, Claude, hands our the presents.

Beth loved her stuffed animal whom she dubbed "Chocolate".

Juan Pablo with his new bike helmet.

JMT with the gift from his KK.

Viola, Maddie, Therese and Rose dance at the end of our midnight Mass.

Christmas day we had a wonderful dinner with local friends.

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Rebuilding News - May 2010

 

We are settling into our new common center.  The kitchen, dining room,
and offices are moved in.

 

JMT's office

Our new spacious, stainless steel kitchen!

Dining room

 

This is our beautiful view from the porch in Spring.

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On April 10th, 2010 Bishop Anthony Taylor of Little Rock consecrated
and blessed the Church and New Monastery at Little Portion Hermitage. The
New Monastery replaces the Charity Chapel and Common Center of the
Hermitage that was destroyed by fire April 28th, 2008.
 

A simple, but beautiful building in the style of a Franciscan Mission, it uses
“green” technology that makes it environmentally friendly, and energy
efficient. For two years the integrated monastic community of 35 have

been worshiping and sharing common meals, and ministry in a make shift
facility originally designed to accommodate one family. The opening of the
New Monastery is a cause for great joy, and marks a new chapter in the
history of this integrated monastic community!
 

Over 125 monastic community members and guests, including Bishop
Anthony Taylor, Fr. Shaun Wesley of St. Elizabeth’s in Eureka Springs,
other monastics, religious, and clergy attended the celebration. The respected
green minded architects, Albert and Lisa Skiles, and contractor Dan Minkel
and families were special guests. Other honored guests included Dan O’Neill,

founder of the well respected humanitarian agency of Mercy Corps, and Phil
Perkins, John Michael Talbot’s long time producer and coworker in their
award winning sacred music.

 

The celebration was joyful and awesome. The music was typically spirited with
traditional monastic chant, and contemporary praise and worship. The Bishop’s
homily was most moving, as were all the symbols of the liturgy. John Michael Talbot,
founder, spiritual father, and General Minister, shared with gratitude about the
tragedy and joys of the last two years, and all who have made this new
beginning possible. A luncheon, and tour of the building followed the celebration.

 

The Brothers and Sisters of Charity is part of the New Monasticism Movement,
and was among the first integrated monastery founded in North America, and
the first with canonical approval in the Catholic Church in The United States.
They integrate religious, Christian, and monastic spiritualities, and celibate, single,
and family states of life from an orthodox and traditional Catholic monastic base.

                                            John Michael Talbot

The belltower permacrete is complete and the ground is graded for the plaza.

Southwest picture of the common center and chapel.

Chapter Room Ceiling with Cross Beams

Dining Room Fireplace Progress

Gift shop shelving at the entry near the porter's desk.

Cement plaza area poured.

Railing up dining room steps.

 January 27, 2010

 We have the front chapel doors installed and the stone facing is done!

Chapel entry taken from inside the chapel.  The room to the left is the
parlor and to the right is the vesting room.

Close up of stone work and statue niche in front of the chapel.

The glass rail in front of the loft is installed.

The detailing for the belltower is being installed.

 The stonework continues.  It will wrap around the dining room porch.

Kitchen stove

Baking station range.  The protective sheets covering the stainless
steel haven't been removed yet.

Work has begun on the water feature for the interior cloister garden.
The green hose is outlining the pond area.

January 16, 2010

 Detailing in chapel south wall.

Chapel interior after permacrete and painting is complete.  We hope to worship here soon and very soon!

New dining room upper windows have been completed and will get a fresh
coat of paint.

The doors and window are in and drywall in place in the new dining room.

The railing for the chapel loft is complete.  A glass panel will complete the rail.

The north side of the chapel has part of the roof up and the second coat
of permacrete has been applied.

The front of the chapel has a full coat of permacrete.

The chapel interior is getting its styrofoam mouldings applied and coated
with permacrete.

The chapter room is taking shape.

Interior walls.

The library allows lots of natural light because of the new skylights.

Pillars are added to the south side of the building outside the dining room.

Cloister walkway and roof are progressing nicely.

Fireplace between kitchen and dining room started.

Hearth installed.

Windows on the dining room fitted.

Styrofome embelishments around the door.

Chapel face gets its first coat of permacrete.

Wood for roof in place.

Porch view from front.

Top in place with tar paper.

Rock lining the cinderblock below the porch.

Roofing over dining room porch nearly ready to start.

Pillars with first coat of permacrete and decorative color in center.
Stones for chapel in foreground.

Roofing insulation.  A sheet of plywood followed by a layer of the pictured
foam and plywood are applied to the roof.

Shot looking from the cloister walk towards the chapel.

The belltower cupola has been placed.

South side of the common center upper portion has received it's
second coat of permacrete (this one is textured) and painted)

The chapel loft is 3/4 done - this is a view of the loft ceiling.

Front of common center receives its first coat of permacrete.

Chapel interior ceiling is complete and the belltower sheeting is nearly done.

November 6, 2009

Porch cover outside the dining room.

Front view of the porch cover over dining room.

The ceiling of the chapel is complete!

 The styrofoam at the bottom of the pillar gets a coat of permacrete.

Chapel ceiling - more than half done!

We had a freeze last night so the workers had to wait until later in
the day to get on the wood.  The side panel was put into place using
the Sky Trak.

The south side of the chapel.

Moldings from styrofoam are fitted around the lower third of the pillars.
They will be covered in permacrete.

Closer view of column forms.

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November 4, 2009

 

Chapel ceiling underway!

Interior view of chapel ceiling

 Common center, looking from greenhouse area

 First coat of permacrete is applied to the building and cinderblock.

Beginning for fireplace in dining room.

Front porch looking outward

Close up of permacrete.  Styrofoam insulation is showing at the bottom
(whiter area).

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October 28, 2009

The belltower is being fitted with sheeting.

The finishing touches are being put on the cupola.  There is still a hole
on top so it can be lifted up and set on top of the belltower.

The sheeting on the arches is nearly complete.

Beginning sheeting of the exterior of the library (behind cloister walk)

Upper support beam in the chapel is complete.

Stove hood arrived.

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mid-October 2009 

 

An exciting day at Little Portion.  The Sky Trak (orange machine on left)
lifts the tresses from the group to an upright position.

A crane lifts the truss up over the top of the chapel and sets it in place.

Next second truss being put into place (shown from inside the chapel).

Almost all trusses up into position.

All chapel trusses in place.

Sheeting for the cloister walk is nearly complete and the porches
have been covered.

The cloister walk ceiling taken at an intersection.

The dining room ceiling is complete.  Note the upper windows to allow
additional light.

Exterior shot of the dining room windows.

The east side of the building being prepared for permacrete.

The structure for the arches at the front of the building completed
and are being fit with sheeting.

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September 25, 2009

 

Arches being formed in the cloister walk

Steps up to dining room poured

Pine ceiling in dining room started

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 September 23, 2009

Overhead view of chapel (foreground), dining room (upper right side)
and cloister walk.

 

Belltower is lifted up on a crane and set on it's pad.

Chapel floor being poured

Chapel view from belltower

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September 22, 2009

The stairs to the dining room are being poured tomorrow.  The pyramid
shaped item on the porch is the top of the bell tower which we hope
will be placed tomorrow.

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September 21, 2009

 

We've been getting several inches of rain the last few weeks which
slowed the progress on the exterior and exposed interior areas.  Work
is being done on the inner walls structure and electric wiring.

Your can see the arches of the cloister walk taking shape.

The pad for the belltower has been poured and is being prepared

The chapel subfloor has been leveled and covered
with plastic.

The dining room rafters are set in place.

A lot of progress has been made on the east end of the building.

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September 8, 2009 

 

Today's shot taken on the Sky Trak.

 

Scaffolding has been removed.

 

Exterior from dining room towards chapel.  Posts have been placed
for the covered porch.

The cloister walk is taking shape.

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August 31, 2009

 

Scaffolding coming down.

 

Chapel interior (notice the cement pillars and windows at top.

August 25, 2009

 

A member of the construction crew waves as we anxiously await the
placement of the final block for the chapel front.

The final block is placed.

Thumbs up for the segment completed.

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August 22, 2009

 

Chapel and Common Center - northeast view 

 

Common Center - north view.  Notice the branch at the top of the chapel
peak.  It is a tradition of construction workers to  put a "tree" at the
buildings highest peak. 

 

Common Center - western side

 

Common Center - southern side

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August 18, 2009

 

Taken from the new dining room.  Far left by ladder is the chapter room,
left with scaffolding is the chapel, cloister garden is in the center, the
classroom is direcdtly behind the garden, library and archives is on one
side of the cloister garden and kitchen is to the right.

Pantry and kitchen in foreground, wellness rooms, and offices in rear.

Chapel is growing higher! 

Cloister walk with library in the rear.

 

The dining room cement floor has been poured.

The new dining room will overlook the prayer garden.

Interior view taken from the chapter room.

Overview of monastery from northwest angle.

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August 12, 2009

 

Trusses over the office area are lifted by a large TeRex.

 

Each truss is maneuvered into place.  The rear is JMT's office.

 

Truss nearly set.  This area is the wellness rooms.

 

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Interior work continues: wall struts are set in place. 

CHAPEL SHOWN FROM FRONT - NOTE THE NICHES PLACED FOR

STATUES.

CLOSE UP OF CHAPEL INNER AND OUTER WALLS 

 

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AUGUST 7, 2009: CHAPEL NORTH SIDE WALLS AND FRONT STARTED

 

CLOSE UP OF CHAPEL'S INNER WALLS (right)

 

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AUGUST 4, 2009: INNER WALL STEEL BEING SET

 

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JULY 24, 2009: THE BELLTOWER SKELETON ARRIVED TODAY 

NOTE THE ARCH OVER THE DINING ROOM (right) AND EDGE OF
BELLTOWER LAYING TO THE LEFT (dark metalic structure)

 

CLOSE UP OF THE FRONT PORCH AND DINING ROOM ENTRY

BUILDING SOUTH SIDE

 

BUILDING SOUTHEAST CORNER AND EAST SIDE

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This is a photo of the new monastery walls continuing to rise. This is very exciting for our community! Next week the chapel walls go up. That will be really exciting to see!! The subterranean work, slab, and floors have taken so long that we never thought we would actually see this. But here it comes! All praise to God!

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot

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NOW IT'S STARTING TO LOOK LIKE A BUILDING! 

SOUTHEST SEGMENT OF THE COMMON CENTER

JULY 14, 2009: SW EDGE OF THE COMMON CENTER GOING UP

 
CEMENT FLOORING HAS BEEN POURED AND STAINED.  THE CENTER
SECTION IS THE CLOISTER WALK.

VIEW FROM THE NEW SOON-TO-BE WELLNESS ROOM.

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June 30, 2009 

Peace and Good in Christ!

We had a great Building Meeting today in which we finalized the Chapel furnishings, monastic choir stalls, pews, ambo and altar. It promises to be most beautiful, but elegantly simple. We are having a Chapel consecration with Bishop Anthony Taylor of Little Rock with special friends and dignitaries on December 5, 2009. It promises to be a wonderful celebration! 

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

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                 Pouring cement in the new dining room area.

                                         Cement flooring being stained.

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New workshop adjacent to the poultry plant (right)

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Peace and Good in Christ!

On the feast of one of the Hermitage's patrons, St. Romuald , the founder of the Camaldolese Order of monks and hermits, and the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, we made the first pour of the concrete slab that will be the floor of the New Monastery. It is exciting!! It is as if we are being "grounded" in these two great realities of the need for solitude and silence, and the need for a heart of great love and compassion for all people. As Evagrius, the great writer of the spirituality of the desert, said, we must be "separated from all, and united to all." And we "renounce all to gain everything."

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot
Founder and Spiritual Father

The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

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MAY 29, 2009

Below are the latest photos of John Michael and
crew during our architect's last visit.

You can see the entire perimeter of the building footings, with the
cloister in the middle, and the metal pilings for the pilasters of the chapel walls.

After the subterranean duct and conduit work is finished the footings and
foundations will be completed, then the walls will begin to rise. We are planning
a Chapel Consecration on December 5, 2009, with the blessing of the entire
building in the Spring of 2010.

  

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ARCHITECTURAL RENDERINGS OF THE CHAPEL, MONASTERY AND FLOOR PLAN

CHAPEL (LEFT), OFFICES/CLASSROOMS (REAR), DINING ROOM/KITCHEN (RIGHT)

 RECONSTRUCTION DAY 1: CREW MEETS WITH JMT

CONTRACTOR DAN MINKEL, JOHN MICHAEL AND ARCHITECT ALBERT
SKILES REVIEW PLANS

 

 

 

Peace and Good in Christ! 

Good news! We are finally starting the actual building of our new monastery after the tragic fire of April 28th, 2008. We are very excited to see the structure actually rising from the ashes. It will be a beautiful, but simple building for our growing community. 

Most of the expenses of the building have been covered by our insurance and the generous donations of our friends and domestic community members. But we still need your help.  

I know you have been most generous in the past, and we know that these are difficult economic times for all of us. Some ask why these costs are so high. Actually, they are very conservative.  Our architects and contractors are donating about 1/3 of their services.    

Would you consider donating to help finish this critically important structure for the glory of God, for the smooth function of our community life and for the edification of our guests and visitors? We could use your help with the following projects. They are listed in order of priority: 

Completion of basic structure and landscaping: $300,000

Chapel Choir Stalls for monastic community, and pews for visitors: $40,000 

Dining Room tables and seating with lower cost woods: $5,000 

Chapter (Community Meeting) Room tables and seating (Better Quality): $8,000 

Office Furniture (Used and refurbishes): $7,500 

Parlor and Community Recreation Room Furniture: $10,000 

Wellness Room for our sick and infirm: $ 10,000 

Thank you for prayerfully considering  these  needs. You are truly a dear friend. You are valued deeply and prayed for daily from the monastery. These items are very important to our integrated monastic community life and ministries.  

In Jesus, 

John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

BACK TO WHAT'S NEW HOMEPAGE

Youth at Little Portion Hermitage went blueberry picking for the community.

Rosie and Maddie didn't pick much but they had fun trying.

A bumper crop was picked!

The youth at Little Portion made a handpainted Happy Pentecost sign and decorated
for the occassion.

After decorating they were ready to celebrate the Vigil of Pentecost with Fr. Shaun,
pastor of St. Elizabeth of Portugal and St. Anne's Catholic Church presiding.

A big thank you to Fr. Shaun for his time and talent!  After the beautiful mass,
the community celebrated the Church's birthday.

The youth at Little Portion worked on Saturday to bake muffins and create thank you
notes for the crew working on our new building.

Katherine Colbert proclaiming the first reading.

Br. Andrew and Mark lead the gospel narrative.

Veneration of the cross.

Youth with Fr. Tony before Easter Vigil begins.

Easter Vigil Fire

Richard Ims chanting.

Fr. Tony blessing the water.

Easter dance

Egg hunt

Waiting for dinner with Solomon

The Sheplers enjoy Easter dinner and a visit with their son, Eric. 

Maddie shows the gingerbread men the kids made with Miss Sheila.

Hannah read the Christmas story to the community.

Rosie was on hand to help blow out the candle on Jesus's birthday cake.

ADVENT/CHRISTMAS SEASON 2008

The children at Little Portion Hermitage and visiting grandchildren of the
Shepler family worked together to create our 2008 Advent calendar.

Marisol Lloveras, Rachel, Therese and Hannah help make
tortillas for our annual Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration.

After our dinner the children gathered to play Build the Snowman.

Afterwards the children played a combination of games
involving the roll of dice and ending with a scavenger hunt.

Sr. Mary Rose and the children after the prize has
been found - a bag of candy for each child.

At our Posada, Mary and Joseph were able to get some
soup but alas, there was no room at the inn.

Fr. Bob wore a new chasuble for Gaudete Sunday made
for him by our domestic sister, Denise Bernt.

We were "iced in" on the evening we planned to carol in Berryville
but were able to go to the convalescent center in Eureka Springs.

We sang carols in the residents' dining room then down the halls for
those unable to attend.  At the end of the evening, Fr. Brian Christi
played a Scottish song on the violin while the children danced.

Due to size constraints we celebrated Christmas Eve up at the Little Portion Retreat and Training
Center.  As usual, JMT and Viola attract children like magnets!

After dinner we gathered to sing Christmas carols.

In no time Viola had the children up and dancing to the high spirited carols.

The children acted out "Away In A Manger"

Beth Lloveras read the Christmas Story to the community.  After the
reading the community exchanged gifts, then celebrated midnight mass at 10 PM.

John Michael explaining the significance of the altar -- it was the original brought from
Alverna, was in the original Portiuncula chapel, was used to celebrate our 25th
anniversary of Little Portion by Bishop Anthony Taylor, and is now being used for the
first Mass in the still-under-construction Charity Chapel.

Cisco led the children in our opening song, the first sung in Charity Chapel, "Malo,
Malo, Thanks Be To God".

Richard Ims proclaimed our first reading.

John Michael led our first chant, the responsorial psalm.  The accoustics are great!

Jina Ims proclaimed the second reading.

Fr. Lambert read the day's gospel.

Glory to God in the Highest!!

Fr. Bob Dombrowski prayed often for the rebuilding of Charity Chapel.  We used the
chalice presented to us by the Knights of Columbus in memorial of Fr. Bob.

Preparation of the gifts.  At the end of our Mass we sang "Our God Reigns" followed
by "Lift High the Banners of Love".  Of course we were too busy dancing to take
pictures.

We concluded our celebration with a wonderful Thanksgiving meal together and
then shared what we were grateful for this year.  It was a wonderful day.

The community gathered in our new dining room to celebrate the feast of St. Francis
on Sunday, October 4, 2009.  This was our first meal in the new building and we
look forward to the day we can move here permanently.

JMT reading to the community about St. Francis from the Omnibus

The community enjoyed an economical meal of chicken sausage, rolls, potato salad,
and from donated cabbage, cole slaw and fumi salad.

John Michael and Viola Talbot

Colbert family with Beth Lloveras tucked in for good measure.

Hannah playfully gives JMT's beard a tug. Left to right, Rosie Lloveras, Hannah Colbert,
Caroline Colbert, JMT, Beth Lloveras, Rachel Colbert, Therese Lloveras and Maddie
Colbert.

Left to right: Mark Shepler, JMT, Jack Herbert, Sharon Herbert & Caroline Shepler.

Rosie Lloveras rings the bell to signify the end of the meal.

August 14-16, 2009
Hesed Retreat facilitated by Michael Card
Little Portion Retreat Center
Eureka Springs, AR  72632

SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS

Bill & Chrissy Jones, Gainsville, TX  -  12th Wedding Anniversary
(Karen &) Robin Noad, Norman OK – 50th Birthday
Michael Card, author/lecturer/composer/musician – retreat facilitator
Bob & Joyce Van Bruggen, Louisville, KY – 1st Wedding Anniversary
Fr. Lambert – 60th Anniversary as a Priest
Sandy & Cordell Schulten, Fenton, MO – 31st Wedding Anniversary

THEY'RE BA-AAAAAACK - DEACON ZACH AND THE YOUTH GROUP RETURN TO LITTLE
PORTION FOR THE 5TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR!

Many thanks to the St. Peter's Youth Group in Omaha for all their hard work

Another wave of youth from Team Effort are visiting the monastery this summer
to help us with a variety of chores.  Much thanks goes to the many youth who
will be helping us over the next 8 weeks!!

Above: Youth working in the garden

Community members gather on the feast of St. Isadore the Farmer
to pray and bless the livestock and gardens.

Blessing of the flower, herb and vegetable gardens.

Blessing the chickens and goats.

Peace and Good in Christ!Our beloved friend and community Chaplain, Fr. Bob Dombrowski, passed away April 22, 2009 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. 
 Fr. Bob has been a domestic member the Brothers and Sisters of Charity for 12 years, and moved to Little Portion Retreat Center in 2003. Before that he was an Army Chaplain, and served all over the world. He was also a parish priest in the Diocese of Ft. Wayne/South Bend Indiana. Since that time he served as Chaplain of The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage and Little Portion Retreat Center.As a confessor and spiritual director he was "no nonsense," yet most compassionate and human in bringing God's Word. After his army chaplaincy he was accustomed to getting to the core of the issue and giving good spiritual advice very quickly. This also worked well in ministry to a monastic community.  He was similar as a preacher. His down-to-earth upbringing as the son of a Polish baker in Chicago always kept his preaching rooted in daily reality. Yet he was unafraid to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly and without compromise. He was a very good preacher. This was always inspirational to his congregation.Fr. Bob was very well read, and knew the history and teachings of the Church very well. He was always up to speed on the events and current teachings of the popes and bishops. He was also a gifted writer, and kept up a column that was published in several diocesan papers.On a personal level, he was a dear friend. He was also my confessor and spiritual director. I have spent many an hour talking about God and daily life with Fr. Bob. I will miss him dearly. But I am grateful that his battle with illness was not seriously prolonged and painful. He is at peace with his Lord. The funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 27, 2009 at 10 am at St. Elizabeth's Parish Center in Eureka Springs.  Interment at Little Portion will be followed by a light luncheon, also at Little Portion.In Jesus,John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

Fr. Brian Christ presided at the Thanksgiving Mass.

 

We are most grateful for the many friends and benefactors who helped to bring this wonderful meal to our table.

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All Saints' Day 2008



Cisco and Marisol Lloveras and Faith Ims carving pumpkins.



Beth Lloveras carving her pumpkin with assistance from Sr. Mary Catherine 
and Mark Shepler.



Hannah Colbert with her pumpkin.



Jack Herbert and Fr. Brian Christi, visiting us from the Companions 
of the Cross, lend a hand to Caroline Colbert.



The finished product with our pumpkin carvers. 



Next Fr. Brian Christi giving a talk on the history of All Saints' Day.



Hands behind their backs, the youth bob for apples hanging from
a string. Carrie (far left) uses the tree to stabilize her apple
while Beth (far right) works with Rachel Colbert to still her apple.



Rose Lloveras takes a whack at the pinata. 



Carrie Colbert deals the fatal blow (see below).



...and the youth run to round it up!



A chili dinner with candy or carmel apples and smores completed
our celebration. Maddie Colbert enjoying her candy apple.

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 25th Anniversary, Ground Breaking, and Annual Gathering of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity Chapter of "Tents"

There Was Great Love!

Peace and Good in Christ!

It is almost a week since we celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Little Portion Hermitage in Arkansas, the Groundbreaking for the new building, and the Annual Gathering at Little Portion Hermitage on October 3rd and 4th this year. We are now on a concert tour of Ireland, and all is going great.

After the great fire of April 28, 2008, an outpouring of love descended upon the Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage from all sides. It continued through our Silver 25th Anniversary Celebration of the foundation of Little Portion Hermitage. Domestic community members, local churches and businesses, family and friends smothered us with the love of God with gifts,
donations for the new building, letters, visits, and prayers. There Was Great Love!

Only 70 domestics were able to come to the Gathering this year, as compared to the usual 150-250, but There Was Great Love! 

Local churches covered us with prayers, and gifts of food to help us in the initial days after the fire. There Was Great Love!

Businesses provided decorations, seating, and food. There Was Great Love!

This Silver 25th Anniversary Celebration and Ground Breaking goes down as a Red Letter date for the Brothers and Sisters of Charity. Along with our founding, reform, and 10th Anniversary, this day will stand out as a day we always remember in the corporate memory of the community.

SPECIFICS

The week began with domestics, family, and friends arriving early to help with the many preparations for this very full agenda. The grounds were manicured, a huge tent was set up, and outdoor stages were arranged. We were surrounded by great love from everyone. There Was Great Love!

Left to right: Martin Pratka and Martin Hurley


Sharon Pratka decorating one of the candelabras
on loan to us from local businesses

The 25th started with a concert at the Berryville Arkansas First Assembly of God Church with our friends Pastor Keith Butler and his wife, Carol. I was overwhelmed at the outpouring of love during this concert. The audience was filled with faithful community members and friends from the local area that filled the church with the love of God. The kids did a wonderfully funny and inspiring rendition of Walk with Jesus from Monk Rock. I was also presented with two beautiful quilt banners of all 51 of my recordings. There Was Great Love!

Monk Rock Kids performing, "All Life Long"




Two surprise quilt banners bearing my 51 albums and made by
domestic member Denise Berndt, BSCD were presented at the concert.


Pastor Keith and Carol Butler, and Viola and me
at Berryville First Assembly of God Church

October 4th began with rain that threatened to put a damper on all the festivities. But the great tent served to house Morning Prayer, Temporary Professions, the reception of one Novice, and my teaching, or faith sharing about the terrible fire of April 28th and the great hopefulness with which we are now moving forward. There Was Great Love!

Fr. John Mittlestadt, OFM, BSCD joined John Michael Talbot
before giving us his blessing on the Feast Day of St. Francis.

During a beautiful Tea open to the public the local radio station interviewed me and visiting dignitaries and community members.

Of special significance is my good friend Steve Grant from KY3 in Springfield, MO.  

Steve Grant being interviewed by Linda Boyer of KTHS Radio.

Afterward there was a reading of moving proclamations from Bryan King, our State Representative (pictured below with Fr. Bob Dombrowski our chaplain and me), our local mayors from Berryville and Eureka Springs, and Senator Randy Laverty. It was most touching to hear such appreciation from our local community.

Representative Bryan King reading proclamation

Next came the actual blessing and ground breaking for the new building. I opened by emphasizing that this is not "our "building. It is everyone's building. And most especially it is God's building. I welcomed all and invited everyone to come to the beautiful and peaceful grounds of the monastery to pray, rest, and contemplate. I also welcomed their prayer requests at any time. Fr. Bob blessed the ground, and joined by the General Council and our architects, Albert and Lisa Skiles, Viola and I stepped together onto the silver shovel to formally break open the earth

for this new building. Photos clicked from every side in great abundance. There Was Great Love!

Left to right: Caroline Shepler, Lisa Skiles, Sr. Mary Rose, 
Clay and Madeleine Colbert, Albert Skiles, Viola and John Michael Talbot


Viola leads the way on the ground breaking 


Lisa and Albert Skiles 

We then returned to the tent to receive Albert and Lisa Skiles' excellent presentation of the new building plans and they were welcomed as family by all. Their talents are obvious, and their help is greatly appreciated. They have donated much of their time to help us get rebuilding. The new building promises to be simple, beautiful, and environmentally "green." There Was Great Love!

Albert Skiles showing features of the new design

The weather cleared for a truly spectacular outdoor Mass, celebrated by Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB, from Subiaco Abbey in Arkansas and our Visitator from Bishop Anthony Taylor of Little Rock. Abbot Jerome spoke to us of withstanding the "test of time," after 25 years, which was most heartening for theolder members of the community. 

We received four permanent professions from cherished domestic members, and baptized the newest addition to one of our family monastic expression families, Juan Pablo Lloveras, who was only four days old at the time! There Was Great Love! 

Permanently Professed members left to right, Sharon Berry, 
Clare Walker, Debbie Moss and Joe Moss.


Left to right: Deacon Manny Robles, Abbot Jerome Kodell, 
Mark and Caroline Shepler, Godparents (standing), 
Francisco and son Juan Pablo and Marisol Lloveras.

Finally, there was a huge banquet in the great tent after the Liturgy. During the meal letters of blessing and congratulations were read from The Abbot Primate of the Benedictine family, Abbot Primate Notker Wolfe, OSB, Andrew McDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Little Rock and our founding bishop, and Dan O'Neill of Mercy Corps.  

The meal featured our own Monastery Farm free-range chickens, and tasty side dishes from the Green Grill. Beautiful decorations and seating were donated by local businesses and ministries such as The Inn of the Ozarks,Wal-Mart, Nelson’s Funeral Home, Donna Lee Florist, and The Great Passion play donated beautiful decorations and seating.

Left to right: John Michael Talbot, Abbot Jerome Kodell,
Fr. Robert Dombrowski and John Puleo, BSCD.

Family, friends, and community members did the behind the scene work, and the Shepherd's Field Choir

jumped right in to help with serving the meals to the banqueters. There Was Great Love!

After the General Gathering Viola, John Cotton, and I were off to Ireland for a seven-concert tour. We left utterly

exhausted, but the benefits far outweighed the sacrifice. We were well surrounded by the love of God through

community, family, and friends. There Was Great Love!

In Jesus,

John Michael Talbot
Founder, and Spiritual Father

The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage 

---

 

At approximately 12:00am on Tuesday, April 29, fire struck at Little Portion Hermitage in Arkansas' Ozark Mountains. The fire began in our Charity Chapel, and quickly spread through a covered walkway to the Common Center, a building housing the main dining and meeting rooms, offices and library. Both structures are a total loss.  We are covered for part of the rebuilding by our trust fund but it falls significantly short of what we need to rebuild.  Our immediate need is for a new chapel, kitchen and dining room and later office space, library and an infirmary.

---

This is where we are with the clean up project as of Friday, July 25th. The foundation has been torn down and all that remains is for the rubble to be cleared away. We've been having a lot of rain for this time of year which slows the clearing process. However, we are certain that patient endurance will obtain everything in God's time. We are substantially short of the cost to rebuild. Please keep us in your prayers as you are in ours.

Fire Debris Clean Up Begins

Clean up of the fire debris is underway at Little Portion as of Tuesday, 
July 8, 2008-- thanks be to God!

---

We are just now getting to work after excavating the burn site. Jesus, the teaching Christ, stands alone as the sentinel over the only reminder of the old buildings and gardens, and a Savior to lead us on during these most painful months.

Jimmy Jones Excavation completed removal of the debris and we are now ready to begin planning the new building. A HUGE thank you to Jimmy Jones for donating so much time and labor to help us get ready to move forward.

---

Some of Little Portion's remaining outbuildings are being moved because they are located on part of the new building site. The buildings include the community garages, root cellar and shop. Salvagable materials are being recycled.



The original wood shed Portiuncula Chapel was moved to make space for two new outbuildings which will be used as a shop and for storage, and chickens.



The site is being prepared for the two outbuildings.



This is the new site for the original Portiuncula chapel. It is northeast of family hermitage #6. Minor repairs to the building were made to make it servicable once again.

---

Fire Update

Peace and Good in Christ!

I have not written a Little Portion Fire update for a long time. But it was not due to lack of work.

We have been reviewing architect's preliminary plans. These were reviewed by our Board of Directors, and our General Council. We will see several more detailed renderings next week. After that is a community meeting to get everyone's input. We hope that they will be pleased.

Next job is to break ground, and get started. But there many decisions to be made: Poured or concrete block, or some form of real rock. This is the ultimate dream, but we have to trust in God.

Right now we have the money to begin, and nearly finish, but we will need more. Much more. We think that we still need several hundred thousand dollars. Why so much? Simple, we want to build a monastery that will last a lifetime to really live in, and withstand another fire. So it will be masonry unless God shows us another way. Plus, we want to stand with the monastic communities of long ago. Something both ancient and new.

That's it for now. Other reports will come as more developments arise.

---

The rebuilding process continues to take shape as we put together a great team of architects, engineers, and contractor. On Friday, November 7, 2008, Viola and John Michael Talbot met with Albert and Lisa Skiles, architects, and Dan Minkel to concretize plans for the initial pouring of the slab for the new building. They went over the plans in great detail, and have been greatly encouraged with the efficiency and enthusiasm of the team. The spirit is most positive, and we all expect to build a beautiful, and most functional home for the monastic community. 

Left to right: Albert Skiles, John Michael Talbot and Lisa Skiles



Left to right: Engineer Dan Minkel and Albert Skiles



Left to right: Viola Talbot and Lisa Skiles



This is the most recent rendering for Little Portion Hermitage.

BACK TO HOMEPAGE 

 

New skylights were installed thanks to donations made through Friends 
of the Hermitage.

An HVAC Technician is seen installing a new heat pump for us. The heat pumps for our original family and guest hermitages at Little Portion were made possible by using funds donated to ourFriends of the Hermitage Appeal. The old ones were 25 years old!

The new visiting area outside Charity Chapel was recently completed featuring a flagstone pathway (complete with a heart-tau), brick retaining wall, updated landscaping with perennials, and a teak wood bench.

SACRED STEPS BLESSING

A beautiful new stone pathway created by Mark Shepler, BSC was completed just prior to the beginning of this year's Annual Gathering at Little Portion in October, 2006. The photo below shows our Chaplain, Fr. Bob Dombrowski bestowing a special blessing over the steps during the Gathering. Also shown are Mark Shepler, BSC and John Michael Talbot, BSC General Minister.
Even though beautiful as well as functional, the stone walkway leading from the Priests' parking spaces through the bed of hostas up to Charity Chapel is no ordinary set of steps. This is the story of the Sacred Steps: Fr. Martin Wolter, OFM was Spiritual Grandfather and Chaplain for the Brothers and Sisters of Charity for many years. When he arrived to celebrate Mass, he would always park in the parking space reserved for him nearest Charity 
Chapel. But instead of going around the car to the existing walkway to enter the Chapel, Fr. Martin would take a shortcut and tiptoe through the hastas. On several occasions, he was gently reminded to use the walkways rather than disturb the hastas. Each time, he heartily agreed.
But time, it seems, is of the essence when arriving for a Mass-- and old habits are hard to break. For years Fr. Martin continued through the hosta bed until eventually he wore a path there.
Following Fr. Martin's death, Fr. Bob Dombrowski assumed Chaplain duties and did likewise. After all, by then there was a path, right? The community realized that the path might just as well be made official, so Mark lovingly cut and laid the stone for the walkway through the hosta bed.
Both Fr. Bob and John Michael feel Fr. Martin's presence each time they walk on the pathway.

PORTIUNCULA'S BELL TOWER COMPLETED

Visitors to our monastery, including all those attending this year's annual General Gathering, will see something new in front of our Portiuncula Chapel: a graceful work of art that doubles as a bell tower. They'll also hear something new: the deep, calming sound of the bell.
Inspired by temple bells in the far east, our new bell was actually made from an old oxygen tank cut open at one end, then painted non-glossy black. Clay Colbert, family monastic resident of Little Portion Hermitage, built the artistic curved wooden tower.
The bell, christened the prayer bell, is rung whenever one passes the bell tower. The ringer then pauses to say a little prayer.

Meet the Lloveras's who arrived at Little Portion in September.  
Left to right Marisol with family's newest addition, Juan Pablo, Rose,
and Cisco. Not pictured are their two eldest daughters, 
Beth and Therese.



Juan Pablo was baptised during our mass at the general gathering 
on Saturday, October 4, 2008. Abbot Jerome Kodell presided.

Our winter has been quite mild compared to many areas and we are awed
by the beauty of nature.

From all of us at Little Portion, may your Lent be filled with God's Spirit 
and Grace. You are in our prayers.

UPDATE: Chris and Katie discerned that they were not called to 
monastic life and have moved back to Pennsylvania. We pray God's 
blessings upon them and their children as they continue their journey.


Meet our new family! From left to right, Chris, Cecelia, Ian, 
Joseph, Rachel, Katie and Augustine.

Br. Andrew Augustine and volunteer Joyce Park, BSCD work together 
making chicken sausage. Be sure to give it a try - it's great!



Wearing their new traditional ankle length tunics for the first time at this year's Easter Vigil are 
(left to right) Sr. Mary Rose, Sr. Juliana Laura, Sr. Mary Catherine and Sr. Carolyn. 
The habits are modeled after the habit worn for a few years by Viola Talbot, our community's 
Spiritual Mother and Vicar General Minister. The scapular is received by the monastic celibate 
Sisters during their permanent profession ceremony.

Joan Currier is sewing up a storm at Little Portion Monastery. Joan is 
making new habits for the sisters, the monastics... even some new 
ones for baby Madeleine. Watch for the "unveiling" of the 
sisters' new habits at the Easter Vigil.

Though she's checking them off a l-o-n-g list, it seems more 
requests for sewing come in each day.  
Joan is really living up to her nickname: "Sister Sew 'n' Sew!"

---

2008 Arkansas Canopy of Prayers

On Tuesday, March 11th, Little Portion Hermitage sponsored a day of prayer as part of the
366 days of prayer being prayed throughout Arkansas for eight intentions: family, Church,
military, government, Education/youth, media, marketplace and for Arkansas. Many
churches throughout the State are hosting one day at their local church. Once 365
churches accept the call, Arkansas will be covered with prayer for all of 2008.

Each Church organizes a day of prayer anyway they like. Little Portion hosted a one-hour
interdenominational prayer program in addition to opening our doors at noon for prayer.
The formal ceremony began with the solemn lighting of candles at 5 PM, followed by
Vespers and a meditation/reconciliation service instead of the usual intercessions. JMT
shared his reflections on each of the above categories.

Those attending were invited to hammer a nail into the cross to signify our prayer intention
and sacrifice to God. As visitors left they were invited to take a heart-shaped stone with a
prayer intention written on it to remind us to continue praying.

We ended with a time of fellowship over coffee and hot cross buns in the common center.
What a joyful event it is when we can pray with our non-Catholic brothers and sisters!

 

---

Veneration of the Cross

John Michael Talbot, Founder of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, venerating the Cross
He shares two thoughts regarding Holy Week and Easter:

The "holy" in "Holy Week" has special significance. "Holy," means "set apart." Holy Week
is time for us to set aside special times and places to do more intensely the positive things
we do daily as disciples of Jesus. To be a "disciple" means to embrace the "discipline" of a
teacher or master. For a Christian Jesus is our Teacher of teachers, and Master of masters.
For most of us this means more intentional time and space for prayer and meditation on
Jesus and the Church. In addition to personal spirituality in the privacy of our own home it
might also mean going more often to church for Mass or Communion or the Sacrament
of Reconciliation, and the "communion" of "community" with those of one mind and
heart regarding faith and morality. We can also mention simple acts of kindness that do
not have to be noticed or rewarded by anyone but God. On a personal note I was deeply
touched during Lent when one of our consecrated sisters brought meals to my hermitage
during a time of illness. I was also blessed by a discipline embraced by several monastics
of not saying anything negative about anyone. Both of these penances touched me
deeply.

I have also been struck in recent weeks by the much talked about report that eight out of
ten Americans call themselves "Christians." That is much higher than I would have thought,
and is revealing concerning everything from inter-faith issues such as meditation and
mysticism to moral issues such as pro life and simple living. But the report goes on to say
that most of these have not stayed with the religion of their upbringing, and now tend to
"shop around" with various churches whenever one gets too familiar, or "old." This latter
point is a bit disconcerting. It is a challenge to the church, and a challenge to our culture.
How is it that so many call themselves not just religious or "churched," but "Christians,"
yet are so unhappy with the stability offered in the institutions of traditional family and
church? On one level this report gives us great hope that we will find enough common
ground with those of western culture to bring the deeper messages of faith, morality,
and mysticism. On another level it means that we Americans tend to only "buy" that
which is easy, simple, and quickly replaceable. Is it any wonder that deeper levels of
spirituality are seldom reached by those of our own culture?

This is a challenge to those of us who stay with one church or spouse for life. It
challenges us to live our stability in a more life giving way. This way must
authentically change us within before it can change anyone or anything without.
This is called being a "witness" for Christ. But such "witnessing" can be most off putting
if done only for display. It must be genuine and humble if it is to have a positive effect.

So I encourage you to set aside some extra time for prayer, church sacraments,
and care for everyone we meet. Let's embrace a Christian spirituality that takes us so
deep that we no longer feel the need for the easy, and quickly replaceable
spirituality that has become so prominent in America today. Then we can get to the
root of the problems of our culture that sees every- thing from marriage to monasteries
in an easy, and quickly replaceable mindset. Then can we find the stability of Jesus who
never leaves us so easily or quickly when we fall into the various troubles of life. Then
we can have a stability within that no one can take away. This stability can then bring
a deep and abiding peace to our troubled and insecure world.

---

John Michael and Viola Talbot just returned from SCRC in Anaheim, CA. SCRC is an acronym for
Southern California Renewal Communities. JMT's teaching session was on the Jesus Prayer, and
he gave an overview of the words to this ancient prayer, and led the crowd in cleaving that
prayer to their breathing.

JMT has been appearing there about every other year since he sang after the release
of The Lord's Supper in 1978. This year was special because it co-incided with JMT's
50th release.

On Saturday morning John Michael sang for the General Assembly with Francis McNutt,
who spoke on healing. The music JMT played was from the new release, "Living Water,"
as well as from past projects, emphasizing healing in Jesus in order to tie in to Francis'
teaching. Our JMT/Brothers and Sisters of Charity booth was flooded with requests
regarding both John Michael's music, and our community. The booth was manned by
Viola and several Domestic volunteers including two that drove to be there from
Arizona. Many thanks to Jeannette Humes for the beautiful decorations and many
years of service.

---

John Michael Talbot, Founder of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion
Hermitage was honored by friends, family, community members and work associates
at a surprise event in Nashville to celebrate his 50th record, Living Water.

Dusty Wells (Sr. Director of Field & Telesales/Word Distribution, presents JMT with a
sculpture of Jesus as servant.

John Michael was presented with a plaque commemorating catalog sales of more than
one million units. Left to right: Rick Horne (CFO, Exective VP of EMI CMG), Greg Bays
(Sr. VIP/Sales & Marketing, EMI CMG), John Michael, Phil Perkins (Producer) and Billy
Ray Hearn (Executive Producer).

John Michael was also presented with a Ramirez guitar patterned after the guitar
used by Segovia. Shown from left to right: Peter York (President, EMI CMG Label
Group) Al Perkins, JMT, Phil Keaggy, Tom Booth and Michael Card.

Shown left to right: John Styll (President, Gospel Music Association), JMT, Viola Talbot,
Phil Perkins (Producer) and Billy Ray Hearn (Executive Producer).

---

John Michael and the Brothers and Sisters of Charity participated with the Eureka Springs
Ministerial Alliance to celebrate the National Day of Prayer. A crowd of some 500 gathered
at the Berryville Fairgrounds to hear music and join in prayer. The local school band, two
local chorales, some great singers, a bluegrass group, and many local pastors and civic
leaders were among the featured performers and presenters. It was wonderful to see
such local talent celebrate the faith of those present, and those represented. John
Michael concluded the evening with his prayer songs and a candlelight service. It
seemed a wonderful evening of faith, song, and message for all.

---

Rachel Colbert shows her picture depicting the unity in the body of believers for National Prayer Day. Rachel
received a ribbon in the special art category.

           Loving Tribute, Funeral Helf for Brother Timothy McMillan, BSC

Berryville, AR -- The earthly life and passing into eternal life of Brother Timothy Gerard McMillan, age 51, was marked by a funeral Mass at Little Portion Hermitage at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 7, 2007.  Brother Tim was a beloved monastic member of the Brothers and Sisters of Charity since coming to the community in 1992.

 Br. Andrew Augustin prays for Br. Tim at an all night Vigil held for Br. Tim

Father Robert Dombrowski, Chaplain, concelebrated Holy Eucharist with Fr. John Mittelstadt, OFM, who traveled from New Mexico to attend the funeral.  Domestic members, guests, and Friends of the Community joined their voices with monastic members in prayer, praise and remembrance.  Jim McMillan, Tim's brother, traveled from Pflugerville, TX.

BSC Founder and General Minister John Michael Talbot paid tribute to Brother Tim, sang Psalm 23 during the service, and closed with "Come Home Little Children".

Lectors proclaiming God's Word included Br. Tim's longtime friends, Sr. Mary Catherine Breidt and Family Monastic member, Caroline Shepler, both of whom worked with Br. Tim in Nicaragua as well as at Little Portion Hermitage in more recent years.  Sister Carolyn Enders read condolences from Diocesan Administrator Msgr. J. Gaston Herbert.  Clay Colbert, BSC, Family Monastic member and the community's Pro-Vicar, read a letter from one of the commity's beloved spiritual founders, former Diocese of Little Rock Bishop Andrew J. McDonald.  In his letter, Bishop McDonald wrote: "St. Francis had his wolf of Gubbio; Brother Tim had Eli."  Eli was the monstery's faithful dog, a Golden Retriever who died on Saturday, February 3, 2007 -- the same day as Brother Tim.

Burial followed at the Little Portion cemetery.  Little Portion community members eached placed a flower on Brother Tim's casket as they said their goodbyes to his earthly remains.

Tim lived a tough life, and struggled with various addictions before his conversion to Christ.  I will always remember him giving his testimony to the monastic community, quietly weeping as he spoke of how Jesus literally saved his life.  He often reminded us not to get too caught up in the lesser things of life that so often rob us of our peace, joy, and love.

Brother Tim was a man of few words but was direct: he let you know what was on his mind.  This was used by God many times when he would say just a few words at a community meeting, but would impart much wisdom.

He was a great teacher, and I always thought that if his health had been better he would have made a great monastic priest.  He often taught religion classes for young people.  He also took the youth on several field trips, including the sacred pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Denver.  Children and teens loved Br. Tim.  His quiet, down to earth way was attractive to those who sought something solid and real.

In recent years, Br. Tim became an avid flintknapper -- a maker of arrowheads and other objects in the fashion of the Native Americans. He used this gift to create from flint crosses or various designs, as well as likenesses of our community symbol, the heart tau.  These were highly prized, and much sought after.

He will be sadly missed.  But through our sadness we also see Br. Tim attaining his hope of glory in Jesus Christ.  I am completely confident in his joy with the Lord, and this confirms me in my own vocation and walk with Christ here on earth.

I will close with a story told to us at our community's reading of the Office of the Dead last Saturday by Fr. Bob, our Chaplain.  Only a short time after learning of Br. Tim's passing, Fr. Bob received word that Eli, one of our faithful monastery dogs, had died the same day.  Fr. Bob told us he could imagine in his mind Br. Tim walking up the path to heaven and Eli running after him and barking, as if to say, "Wait for me, Br. Tim.  I'm coming too!"

Along with our faithful dog Eli, we also say, "Br. Tim, wait for me," for he is already experiencing first hand the fullness of what we all seek while sojourning here on earth.  If this life on earth is just a twinkling of God's eye, it will not be long before we are all reunited with Jesus and everyone we love in Eternity.

Br. Tim, we pray that Jesus will embrace you fully.  We will miss you.

In Jesus,
John Michael Talbot
Founder, Spritual Father, and General Minister
The Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage

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