January 20, 2002

• A visit to the Sao Bento monastery is good for the eyes, the stomach and mainly for the heart.

  
  

  It´s almost a quarter to noon. On Sao Bento Plaza, there is much heat, buses and motorbikes noise, and people walking in a frenetic pace. It seems impossible, but next to this same agitated scene, there is a calm place.

  
  

  

  Everyday, at 11:45 sharp, the monks of Sao Bento Monastery get together in the Basilica of Nossa Senhora da Assunção (popularly known as São Bento Monastery) to celebrate the Meridian Hour.

  
  

  One who visits the place at that time, hardly believes in what one sees. Right after the bells ring, silence is only broken  by the prayers sung in Latin. After making one of the many daily tasks, the monks leave in silence.

  
  

  The tranquility is only one of the pleasant features of the place. And, even if one is not a very religious person, one may find good reasons to visit it. The Monastery is also stage of many cultural events throughout the year.

  
  

  Some visitors get a little bothered by the lack of illumination. But during the early masses, mainly on sunny days, the place seems ethereal. The altar gains a golden colour…torches of light coming from outside cross the entire ambient.

  
  

  Sometimes I like going there after lunch time. I sit, and I observe the liturgical scenes painted on the ceiling and walls. After being there for some time, I pay a visit to the Monastery little store. Among the religious books, images, and medals, there are some sorts of bread and cakes made by the monks. They go very well with some coffee and tea later in the afternoon….

  
  

  

  Have a nice week, you all!!

  
  

  

  • 8:50 pm
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