Tuesday, 21st February 2023
The Abbot's Summer Table
Hospitality, according to St Benedict, is paramount. The Summer Abbot's Table has once again fulfilled its mission to provide guests with not just a sumptuous meal, but also a warmed heart. "It was honestly the best dining experience I have ever had", said one satisfied guest, "and the service and hospitality were second to none".
The six-course meal, stretching deliciously across several hours of a balmy summer's eve in the air-conditioned interior of the New Norcia Hostel, is the mastermind of Abbot John Herbert, who enjoyed a previous career as a chef in his hometown Melbourne before turning to the monastic life. Does he still enjoy cooking? The broad smile spreading across his face suggests he does. Indeed, a lovely diversion it must be from the many administrative tasks occupying the daily life of a busy abbot.
But when asked what his favourite thing about the evenings is, it's not the planning, preparing or cooking the fine meal, enjoyable as those are. It's the hospitality. The spirit of community felt by both the guests and the staff and volunteers who work together to create a memorable event.
"Apart from the opportunity to do something creative", said Abbot John, "the real joy of the Abbot’s Table for me is working with such a dedicated team – each contributing their skill – with positive enthusiasm and with a genuine desire to serve. This is reflected both in the ambience of the evening, and in the extraordinary and much appreciated feedback – above all, our guests are awe-struck by the unique spirit of hospitality, a key component of Benedictine spirituality".
