Construction of the Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph continues in Fairfield, Adams County, as volunteers are hand-building the Vestry, which will contain the recreation and work rooms for the Discalced Carmelite Nuns.
Nine Discalced Carmelites moved from the at-capacity Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in Elysburg to the Fairfield Carmel last July. The blueprints for the monastery farmstead require authentic materials and craftsmanship for a chapel, a refectory, a novitiate, a building for the professed, a caretaker’s home, chaplain’s quarters and a guest cottage.
Bishop Ronald Gainer visited the Carmel on June 17, where he met with the nuns and volunteers who are completing the stone work. He blessed two large rocks at the base of what will be the workhouse, and secured them with mortar. He also placed a small stone, which the Mother Superior brought from the Holy Land.
The recreation and work building will be 3,750 square feet, and built of reclaimed wood and stone masonry. It will take approximately 12 months to complete.
For information about the Discalced Carmelite nuns, the progress of the monastery in Fairfield, and volunteer efforts, visit www.fairfieldcarmelites.org.
By Jen Reed, The Catholic Witness
