The Chapter House holds a precious place in the hearts of the monks, nestled in the center of the monastery. A monastery Chapter House serves many functions. It derives its name from the monastery’s chapter, the group of senior monks that govern the monastery and meet in the Chapter House to discuss important matters. It is the site where the most important events in a monk’s life take place, such as his clothing in the holy habit of Carmel and where he vows his life to God and the Blessed Virgin Mary in obedience, chastity, and poverty.
After shaping each of the several thousand stones that would make up this edifice, the monks set to work, building the walls stone upon stone. Gradually the multitude of stones laid out next to the Chapter House found their final home in its walls. Winter held off just long enough and the final stone was set here in the first weeks of October. Praise God for His goodness in bringing this great work to completion!
