Listen to the sound of the birds in the background.
Can you hear the birds, smell the lilacs? Is there a bee buzzing in the background? One lovely day in September I visited the abbey just to take a walk. The monks are very kind and practice the gift of hospitality as clergy and laypeople stop by to visit the gift shop or walk the pathways throughout the grounds. Located near Charleston, SC, the weather is warm most of the year, and very hot during summer. The South Carolina rainstorms keep the grass green and lush. Flowers steadfastly bloom throughout the year. In a place like Mepkin Abbey, people draw very close to God. It can't be helped. There are very few distractions to interfere with the voice of the Spirit. If you are strong believer, you rejoice in the silence and solitude. If you are borderline and just not sure, the environment gives God's Spirit a chance to work into your heart with His love and grace. There is a chapel for the monks to pray, sing, and voice their liturgy. It is beautiful and yet one more way to be drawn close to God. Everyone should have the chance to get up at 3:00 a.m., meet the monks in the chapel and listen to their prayers and music. It will change your soul . It will enrich your spirit.
