Liturgy (continued)

Flower arranging is, of course, intimately connected with our prayer, as the feasts and seasons are reflected in the arrangements. Originally flower arranging (ikebana) was an act of Buddhist worship, an offering of flowers done by monks. For us, the cutting and trimming of excess branches and leaves to arrive at simple beauty is a reminder of our life of penance. Placing the flowers in the chapel renews the offering of ourselves to God.

God's Providence has seen to it that we have a choir in keeping with Japanese color and design. Originally, the choir was high-ceilinged, holding choir stalls for twenty-six Sisters. But when we were down to five Sisters, and it was getting too hard to heat the chapel in the winter, we had it redesigned, thanks to help from benefactors, to suit our needs. We have Mass here, too, except when large numbers come for a special occasion. We have twelve of the former stalls in the choir, and hopefully would be able to fit in six more when necessary. The coloring, and use of wood, gives an impression of a tea ceremony room, conducive to quiet and recollection.