Play Day in the Nation's Capital

Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America An Oasis of Peace, Washington DC

 

We found that the monastery was indeed an oasis of peace and we chose a beautiful spring day to make the visit especially enjoyable.

 

The Insect and Butterfly Garden was inspired by Father James Edmiston, a Franciscan Friar and entomologist who studied flies with Wayne. He was our friend for many years and "Father Jim" and Wayne co-authored research papers. Jim died prematurely at the monastery shortly after returning from Russia where he had been on a church assignment for several years. His grave is in the monastery cemetery.

 

 

The Ascension Chapel

 

Saint Francis and the Turtle Doves

 

Plaques with Ave Maria in a multitude of languages are displayed under the covered walkway all the way around the garden. There are also many mosaics depicting events in the life of Christ.

 

We wondered if this angel is holding the US Capitol Building? No one could tell us.

 

This is one scene inside the very large chapel. We once attended a Mass where Father Jim officiated and his Funeral Mass was also in this chapel.