Prior Michael calls our attention to theosis, the theology of "divinization" popular in eastern Christianity. We speak such a language in the Mass as well, when we pray in light of God's humbling Himself in taking on our humanity, that we may "come to share in the divinity of Christ." This prayer in the Mass points to the Incarnation and leads us to consider the feast of Christmas.
While many have remarked on the "monastic" quality of the pandemic experience, it has in many ways been downright anti-monastic. Stressing community bonds and curbing our hospitality, finding the way to properly live out and express our faith has presented persistent challenges. We pause to reflect on the journey thus far, as we approach the Christmas season.
The monastic community wishes each of us a blessed Christmas season. In this "greeting card," each of the monks expresses his own special message to the extended community.