Bratwurst roasting on an open fire
Four nuns munching on s’mores …

Wait, that’s not the way the song goes — unless you spent this 4th of July with us at St. Joseph’s Monastery! Our community enjoyed our traditional Independence Day “Gaudeamus” (free day) together, filled with all sorts of sisterly fun and tasty food.

In the morning, Sister Frances Marie organized a series of fun lawn games, including a water-balloon toss to help us beat the heat! Meanwhile, Sister Cecilia Maria and Christie were grilling up a storm for our delicious noon meal.

The afternoon saw a group of Sisters toasting marshmallows and … garlic?? That’s right, Sister Cecilia Maria showed us how to make delicious roasted garlic to spread on fire-toasted bread. Add a touch of olive oil and some salt, and you’ve got a savory treat to balance the sweetness of s’mores!