Fr. Dan shared this scene from the Holy Peace Chapel on June 12.

"If I were to describe Mt. Irenaeus in one word, it would be home. I first went up to the Mountain my freshman year at the invitation of Br. Kevin Kriso, ofm. I must admit I was a bit nervous. I not only was going by myself, but there were three other students who were also attending and I didn't know any of them. 

I had heard so many wonderful stories from upperclassmen and St. Bonaventure faculty and staff on how wonderful the Mountain is. When I first walked the grounds and entered the Main House, all my fears and anxieties of what was to take place soon went away. I was immediately overcome with happiness and peace; a sense of God. Being new to college, this was a feeling that I have only when I am with my friends, family and loved ones - at home.

Since that remarkable evening, the Mountain and the friars have always been a huge part of my time at St. Bonaventure. Through the ministry of the Mountain I have met with hundreds of alumni on the road, students from SBU and students from other area colleges.

The Mountain is not only a place of solace, but it is a place of prominence and importance in our SBU community. As I move on from St. Bonaventure, it's hard to imagine my life without the Mountain and the friars, but because this ministry has penetrated my heart, the Mountain community will always be a part of my life. Thank you not only to the friars, but also to our benefactors, volunteers and community members. Because of your support, future Bonnies everywhere can experience this wonderful sanctuary and embark on their journey of becoming."

- Josh Maxey 

For another student reflection, visit our website.

Mt. Irenaeus - celebrating 30 years and more of welcoming people to a hilltop in Allegany County - welcomes you to join us here this summer.

We have been blessed with individuals, families and various church groups over the years joining us here. With you and others in mind, we have planned a series of Wednesdays for peaceful "Re-Creation" with dates and times noted below.
 
Every Sunday we also celebrate a Eucharist, open to everyone, at 11 a.m. with a dish-to-pass brunch following. You are also welcome to join us on most days for any of our prayer times or to take a walk in the  woods, visit our Chapel (open to women and men of all traditions), or find your own way around our labyrinth in a grove of trees near our Chapel.
 
We hope through this invitation to spark some interest, to open to "the Light that has overcome, cast out all darkness." This is Peace, Shalom, Salaam, Paz - practiced in many traditions and here for you in the quiet and homey comfort of Mt. Irenaeus. 

For all dates noted below, evening prayer begins at 5:15 p.m., with a dish-to-pass supper at 6:30 and Mass at 7:45. Everyone is invited to come early and spend time on the land or with the friars. 

June 24 - Living with Abundance, Welcoming People into the Summer

 July 1 - Creation, Especially on the Land with Us

For more information, please call the Mountain at 585-973-2470.