Events
Help Us Rebuild Our Aquaponics Facility!
Help Rebuild Our Aquaponics Facility!
After significant tornado damage from Hurricane Milton to the greenhouse aquaculture system at Holy Name Monastery in St. Leo, Florida, a decision was reached by the Benedictine Sisters and Phil Reasons of Aquasol International to dismantle the ruined structure and rebuild anew. Damage includes broken pipes, twisted metal beams, splintered wooden sideboards, and shredded plastic coverings. The 60+ large tilapia suffered trauma, would not eat and so had to be harvested and shared with various organizations.
The plan to rebuild took considerable assessment of many factors and we believe this is God’s work that needs to continue. We will eliminate the aquaponic component which is the tilapia rearing tanks and focus on hydroponically grown plants in the new greenhouse. The outside portions of the farm and fruit tree section are intact so will continue to produce as before the storm.
Months before the hurricanes, the second-hand golf cart which was used to carry supplies around the area gave up the ghost. In addition to the greenhouse construction, a golf cart would be a substantial contribution (approx. $3000) to the monastery and greatly appreciated.
To all who have supported us during these past 10 years, we gratefully accept any contributions you are able to make to this rebuild so we can sustain ourselves and customers with nutritious vegetables.
Below is the breakdown of materials, labor, total by Aquasol International.
Dismantle existing greenhouse $2,500
Install new greenhouse bows and purlins $20,000
Remove aquaculture system $1,000
Repair damaged equipment $1,500
Golf Cart Needed $3,000
Total $28,000
Please make checks payable to: Benedictine Sisters of Florida for greenhouse rebuild
Continue ReadingThe Experience
“The Benedictine Hospitality experience was so great and deeply felt. As always, God’s presence in this beautiful and heavenly place makes me feel blessed and cared for. Hope I can come back for the 3rd time!” Fe A. Francisco
We receive communications like the above from so many guests after their visit to Holy Name Monastery.
For most it is no ordinary experience. Reasons for those who reach-out to us vary from the joy and celebration of faith to the crushing blow of losing a loved one. Whatever the reason, closeness to and a better understanding of God is the desire. In the quiet, in walks on the property, reflection in the chapel, time to just be — the experience is often life changing.
Our prayer is to help guests experience what they are in need of so that when they leave this place, they feel a renewal and a confidence that they are not alone. God is present in their lives.
As a supporter of our mission, you know such work has great value and you know funds raised are preciously and respectfully stewarded by the Sisters. We ask that you share this message with your social network. Give friends, family and colleagues the opportunity to know the joy of helping to change lives. As an Ambassador for our cause, you can further help seekers, the needy, the elderly and those looking for direction in our chaotic world.
Even $5.00 donations on Giving Tuesday makes a difference and collectively can help ensure that our 2024 goal of $40,000 is successful.
Giving Tuesday is December 3rd
How to Participate in GivingTuesday:
By Mail:
- Send a check payable to Benedictine Sisters of Florida postmarked by Dec 3rd
- PO Box 2450, St. Leo, FL 33574-2450
Online:
- Go to our website: benedictinesistersoffl.org
- Click on the “Donate Now” button at the top of the page
- Fill-in the form and designate your donation for “Giving Tuesday”
We have a $40,000 match!
We have a pledge from one of our donors!
If we raise our goal of $40,000 on Giving Tuesday, he will match it dollar for dollar.
Your gift online during the 24-hour giving challenge or by mail will be worth double! So the $40,000 become $80,000 – WOW!!
Giving Tuesday is December 3rd. To donate just hit the Donate Now button at the top of the screen and be part of making the $80,000 happen!
Continue ReadingJust 60 days away from Giving Tuesday 2024!
Prayer for an Election Year
Prayer for An Election Year
Adapted from Center for Mission Election Prayers
O God of mercy, we ask You to bless our
nation in this time of great transition.
Inspire us, still our anxiety and guide us as we
participate in the upcoming elections.
We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice.
We rejoice that we are citizens of Your kingdom.
We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters, one and equal in dignity.
With gratitude for the right to vote we ask for discernment to choose leaders who hear your Word, live you love and will lead us in the ways of Your truth. In Jesus’ name we pray.
AMEN
