paxabbey at The Abbey of Our Lady of Exile, Mount St Benedict, Tunapuna, Port of Spain 00014 TT - MAINTENANCE AT THE MOUNT
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MAINTENANCE AT THE MOUNT |
The buildings and grounds of the Abbey constructed and developed over the years have certainly stood the test of time. We owe thanks to the late Br Gabriel who was the one really responsible for the beautiful architecture and the very strong solid buildings that comprise the Abbey today. Maintaining the Abbey is very costly but thanks to the generosity of the pilgrims and the kindness of many benefactors we are able to keep the appearance of the Abbey at a fairly reasonable standard. Recently we undertook refurbishment of the bell tower at the front of the Abbey, repairs to the back entrance wall and gate, and some painting of the main buildings and retreat house, the reconstruction of a new drain at the back of the buildings and also some curbs along the road way. In addition, there is the ongoing maintenance of our water supply, electricity, buildings and grounds. Next year we hope to resurface the roadway leading up to the Abbey since this is urgently needed, and the construction of a few retaining walls due to landslides. Br Tony, who looks after the maintenance, and the entire Community at the Mount greatly appreciate the dedication of the workers who maintain the Abbey on a daily basis. To all our contractors, to Mr Holder, who looks after plumbing and electrical, and to Mr Monroe, who sees to the repairs and construction, we say “Thank You!” We acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Mr. Selwyn Vidale, a Civil Engineer, who for many years has generously given professional advice for the overall maintenance of the Abbey. Our maintenance program is on-going so that we can continue to extend to all who come here daily, a place of prayer, beauty and quiet in the serene atmosphere of “PAX IN VIRTUTE”. Coming back to the resurfacing of the road and the construction of retaining walls, we have received so far estimates amounting to about TT$2,500,000.00 (US$1.00 = TT$6.00), an amount we could not possibly carry by ourselves. We request, therefore, your financial assistance. Donations may be made to the Incorporated Trustees of Mount St Benedict, mentioning the “Road Fund”. If you would like to send your donation by mail, the address is as follows: The Abbey, Mount St Benedict, St John's Road, Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. Recently Br. Tony conducted a series of burglar proofing work in and around the grounds of the monastery and the retreat house. We once again thank him for his efficiency and hard work. Pax in virtute!