The Plural is Cacti

In our library, greenhouse, hallways and scattered throughout the Mount are quite a number of cactus plants. During most of the year they are moved to the back rows, collecting dust, hidden behind the prettier greens and showier African Violets. They're never chosen for chapel environment when we want to add a little nature to our prayer setting.

But during Lent they are dragged out, cleaned up and brought to center stage...and here they are beautiful! This one is in our new gathering space, right outside the chapel. It is about 40" tall, and when added to the height of the pot it's in, it greets you eye to eye when you walk up to it.


Photo by Susan Freitag, OSB

"The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad,
the desert shall rejoice and blossom;
like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly,
and rejoice with joy and singing."
Isaiah 35

Lent is the season for the desert and the season for our cactus plants. Here's a website of stunning flowering cacti. Enjoy!