More than 350 monks, sisters, workers, guests and benefactors gathered this past Tuesday afternoon for the blessing and dedication of the new Saint John’s Abbey Woodshop.

The ceremony began with a formal recognition of those principally involved in bringing this project to fulfillment and a prayer that God bless the people who will work in this new space. The ceremony also included the enshrining of a statue of Saint Joseph, patron of wood workers, at the entrance of the facility.  The concluding prayer and sending forth by Abbot John Klassen, O.S.B., was received with a rousing “Thanks be to God!” and a chorus of jubilant toots on ceremonial wooden whistles given to all guests (Click on the YouTube video at the bottom of this post to view the full service).

After many years of preparation, Martin Pasi and his team of organ builders now join Abbey woodworkers and artisans in realizing their particular manual skills.  The initial task of the woodworkers will be to complete casework for the new woodshop and to build stands and cabinets for The Saint John’s Bible.  The organ builders will begin construction of a large organ for a church in Kansas City.

The new facility is positioned to welcome interest and participation in the gentle ways of handcraft and the life-giving rhythm of prayer and work. 

The work of many hands, hearts, and imaginations made this project a reality. We will be forever grateful for the responsibility that has now been entrusted to us.  Thanks to all who have helped bring this “pipe” dream to a successful completion. As the Psalmist prays, “May the Lord grant success to the work of our hands.”