July 4th in the Monastery

Just before our Annual Retreat began, photographer Toni Greaves visited for a few days to take some updated pictures for an exciting project she is working on. Toni especially wanted to take some shots of our annual July 4th trip to the roof to watch fireworks!

For days before the 4th we experienced severe thunderstorms that threatened to wash out the firework displays. When the weather finally cleared on the 3rd the sky was absolutely beautiful!

For the 4th of July we celebrate the founding of our country with recreation in the morning and two talking meals at dinner and supper. When the weather cooperates these meals are picnics on the cloister! This year we were able to have dinner on the cloister, but for supper we came inside to the community room. With New Jersey weather it is always a bit hit-or-miss. It might be too hot, too cold, too rainy, too sunny, or anything in between!

Sr. Mary Cecilia, aspirant Jen, and Sr. Mary Jacinta enjoy a 'talking meal' in the community room for supper on the 4th.During this visit Toni found herself on the opposite side of a camera. Some mischievous sisters were able to take her picture during supper almost without her realizing it.

Sr. Mary Daniel entertains Toni at supper with one of her famous stories.

After Compline most of the younger sisters headed up to the top roof to watch Summit's firework show (along with the shows of 12 other towns we can see from there!).

After all of the excitement of the day we were ready for our Annual Retreat to begin!