"Roland told us the story of the beginnings of their community. He and his brothers went on a preparatory retreat to a more established monastery nearby, the Trappist community of Nunraw in the Scottish Borders. It was a three-day preparation in which a wise old monk would guide them into the essentials of community life together. On the first day, the old monk shuffled into the room, sat down, and said to them, 'Today I have just one thing to say to you. "God loves you." Now go away and think about that.' So off they went in their discipline of silence for the day, walking the monastic gardens and reflecting in their individual cells on the great mystery of God's love for us.

"On the second morning, the old monk again shuffled into the room, sat down, and said, 'Today I have just one thing to say to you. "You can love God." Now go away and think about that.' So off they wandered for their second day of silence, pondering the great truth that God not only loves us but also longs for our love. Not only are we the recipients of love. We are the beloved partners in an eternal love affair.

"On the third morning, Roland wondered what could possibly be added to the essential teachings of the first two days. God loves us, and we can love God. Was there anything to add to this completeness? The old monk again shuffled into the room, sat down, and said to them, 'Today I have just one thing to say to you. "You are to love one another." Now go away and live this truth as a community.' The pearl of great price, living together in love."