We are so grateful that you, the Carthusians, have been “Called to the Desert” in Vermont’s splendorous Green Mountains! Your prayerful presence in our beloved state achieves a beautiful blend of solitudes in which to live your very special vocation for the salvation of souls. Vermont is blessed by your very presence, forsurely your spirit of peace and prayerful devotion radiates throughout the Green Mountains them- selves, encouraging us to visit their deserts, encour- aging us to seek closer, more intimate ties with ourselves and our Creator. We are enriched by your very special vocation which some see as sacrifice, but which you welcome as intimacy with Christ.We are also most grateful for the special prayers you offer for the people of Vermont, the Faithful and for those we hope to call back to the Faith.And we pray to Mary, Mother of God, Mother and Patron of the Carthusians, that she continue tograce and nurture you in your blessed solitude. How pleased Christ her Son must be with His Carthusian servants, His most loyal witnesses, who seek only the salvation of souls. Surely He hears your intercessions on behalf of the faithful.My Carthusian Brothers, you are glorious in your simplicity, and radiant in your quiet devotion to Christ and the salvation of His people. We are grateful that your tradition of spiritual poverty remains unbroken after nine centuries! May you continue to serve the Church and the world until the end of time.Most Reverend Kenneth A. Angell Eighth Bishop of Burlington