A New Tradition of Cookies & Carols
Join the Sisters for a new Holiday Tradition, Cookies & Carols at St. Paul’s Monastery
The Sisters have added a new event to their annual week of Christmas at the Monastery fundraising. Join them in creating a simple act of kindness in the form of cookies. While you donate your time, you get to spend a festive afternoon caroling. Thursday, December 12th, from 12:00 to 3:00pm.
A Bit of History:
The Sisters of St. Paul’s Monastery have a rich history of baking and sharing their culinary talents. According to Sister Lucia Schwickerath, OSB, bread was their specialty. Large ovens, still standing in the former Monastery on the Maplewood campus across Benet Road, were fired up days in advance to produce hundreds of loaves for Fall sales. Tea rings, braided bread with dried fruit and icing, were the gift of choice, often going to those who served on Monastery committees.
Sister Lois Hauwiller, OSB, recalls the tireless work of the “Cook Sisters,” who worked around the clock to meet demand. This dedicated team included Sisters Lois, Adella, Aiden, Monica, Richardine, Michaeline, Mary Edgar, Ambrosita, Bernadine, Rose, Roberta, and Monita.
What to Expect at Cookies & Carols:
- Cookie Decorating: After lunch on Thursday December 12, we will supply cookies and icing. You bring your creativity.
- Joyful Carol Singing: As you decorate, join the Sisters in song. Michelle Plombon will accompany us on piano.
- Community and Connection: Foster new connections with fellow attendees and catch up with the Sisters.
- Service: Cookies & Carols is not only a delightful afternoon. The decorated cookies will be delivered to Tubman, located in the former Monastery building. In their own words, “Tubman helps people of all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds who have experienced relationship violence, sexual exploitation, homelessness, mental and chemical health challenges, and other trauma.”
Cookies & Carols promises to be a new heartwarming tradition with a historic connection. Tubman occupies the same building where the Sisters once did their holiday baking. By participating in this joyful event, you participate in a beautiful cycle of giving with the Sisters.