|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Work |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
In order to be as self-supporting as possible, the Brothers produce saleable wares as well as tending their own sheep, goats, chickens and rabbits which provide food for the table as well as an extra source of income when some can be sold. The following details some of the work currently undertaken by the Brothers. Tending the AnimalsAnimals are kept close to the community centre at night but are released into other paddocks further afield for grazing during the day. The grazing assists in keeping the foliage on the floor of the paddocks low as a fire-prevention measure. The animals' feed is supplemented by the Brothers, particularly in times of drought.
Gathering WoodThe only electricity on the property is that provided by a few solar panels. The main meal each day is cooked on a large wood-burning stove (an excellent heater in the winter!) and water for baths or showers is heated by a wood fire. Each hermitage has its own wood fire for heating during winter. A large stock of wood is therefore necessary and readily available in the paddocks on the property. Some trees die and fall of their own accord, others are struck by lightning. Whatever the cause, the tree trunks are sawn into useable blocks and collected for the wood piles.
Gardening
The Brothers attempt to be as self-sufficient as possible and grow whatever vegetables and fruit they are able to. Some of their own fruit is made into jams etc for sale.
Construction
All buildings on the property have been constructed by the Brothers, particularly Brother Geoffrey who has done some marvellous stonework in the construction of the Brothers' hermitages, the Goat Shed, the Guest Cottage, the pillars on which the Refectory stands and the Bell Tower. All stone used has been gathered on the property. The Community Building has been completely lined with pine wood and the Refectory, with its beautiful wooden floor, stands out over the cliff looking down to Plumbago Creek. The floor of the Prayer Room is sandstone which was sourced from the quarry at Helidon which supplies all stone for the building of St John's Cathedral in Brisbane. In the Prayer Room, the prayer book shelves (each Brother has one), the lectern, the cross and the candle holder have been carved by Brother Geoffrey from timber found on the property.
Making Holding CrossesThe making of a Holding Cross is a loving work of art. Every cross is carved individually and is blessed before it is sent to a recipient.
|
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me. |
Lord Jesus, your heart burns with love for me: inflame my heart with love for you. |
Jesus |
God is love |
When words fail or it is difficult to pray, just hold the cross as an act of prayer and of love for God.
© 2004-2017 Little Brothers of Francis Last updated: 6 February, 2017 |