text and images britt-arnhild
In January 2007 I spent a week at Tautra, in the monastery there, finishing my book. The year before, French brother Jöel from the monastery of Citeuax in France had spent a few months at Tautra, and during his stay a dream was born. A small monastery at Munkeby, deep into the Norwegian countryside.
A small monastery at Munkeby is a reality now, and for a couple of years a group of four French brothers have been living, praying and working here.
Tuesday I wrote an email to Munkeby, yesterday Preben and I stopped there on our way back to Trondheim from our daytrip north. We met brother Jöel, brother Bruno, brother Arnaud and brother Cyril.
Our visit was a short one. We sat down in the chapel for a silent prayer, we talked with brother Jöel and he took us around. A short stay, but as I sat there, amazed by brother Jöel's very good Norwegian speaking, I felt peace. I felt at home. I felt surrounded in a good, comforting way.
The combined kitchen and eating room is modern and minimalistic. Very different from a kitchen were I spent some time last spring.
The old farmer's kitchen at Santa Maria in Tuscany was also a place for peace. A place for transformation. A place where I could let my direction change.
The presence of peace and prayers. The presence of God.
Several days at Santa Maria. A few minutes at Munkeby. God's kiss on my cheek.
I let my hand touch my cheek tonight. It is still warm and a little wet. My right index finger follows a few lines of love. God has something to tell me.
An image is forming in my mind.
My hands fold themselves.
Prayers.
Four brothers are breaking up from a safe monastery life in France. Following God's calling.
Blessings spread like rings in water.
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Dear friends.
I know this is a confusing post. I had planned to tell you the story of the French brothers and their new life in Norway. My heart wanted something else. The short time I stayed at Munkeby yesterday did something with me. I don't know yet what.
Life feels like a chest of treasures right now. I am still opening the lid, seeking out the secret rooms in the chest.
