On February 14, Valentine's Day, I moved in here at New
Camaldoli Hermitage. Just before Vespers, at 5:45 p.m. that day, I
received the smock I wear as a postulant. It is much like a monk's habit,
except it ends at my hips, whereas a monk's habit goes down a little below his
ankles.
The monks and I gathered in a circle. The prior
sprinkled first the smock, and then me, with holy water. He welcomed me
into the community. Then I went around the circle and embraced each of
the monks. Thus I was inducted into the community here at the
hermitage.
On that day, I began formally living this monastic
lifestyle, prominently focusing on my relationship with God. On
Valentine's Day, I declared my love for the Lord our God.
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