Our first stop was Westminster Abbey...home to a Benedictine monastery and Mission's most imposing landmark. The grounds are rather like a park...but are actually a part of a working farm operated by the self-sufficient monks.
The abbey stands atop a ridge overlooking the Fraser River valley....and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The monks welcome people of all faiths...and the monastery is open to the public every afternoon. We entered quietly...and observed the beauty of the sanctuary...and respected the signs that indicated we were in a quiet zone. Someone suggested it would probably be acceptable for us to sing...and so we sang "Praise God from whom all blessings flow..." in four part harmony...in a building with amazing acoustics...and it was good!
We chatted with a monk...who told us about their facilities...their lifestyle...and their farm. They planned to make grass silage today...exactly what we are doing here on the farm today.
From there we all wandered down the trail...
...through pastures and woods...where the scent of spring flowers hung in the air...and the birds provided the music.
The trail ended at a viewpoint...overlooking the Fraser Valley and the farms of Matsqui Prairie just across the river. And the mountains...my favorite peaks...were all clearly visible.
Just a short drive away...we stopped by Nielson Park...along the banks of Hatzic Lake. People picnicked and water skiied...we watched and then carried on our way.
The actual ferry crossing takes only about five minutes...so I had to be quick with the camera.
The only other river traffic on this bright sunny Sunday...were the tugs pulling logs.
Our trip across was uneventful...and soon we were in Fort Langley...the perfect spot to find a bite to eat and end our tour for this time. 
That is one delightful tour Judy, you are a wonderful tour guide..thank you! I got goosebumps..singing in that beautiful monastry must have been awesome and I love the song you chose to sing.
ReplyDeleteLoved the photos..gorgeous!
I'd love to have been in that van!
ReplyDeleteI often hear the report on the Albion Ferry "X-number of sailing waits" and wonder about it - now I know!
Beautiful, nay, exquisite tour! I would have loved to have heard the four part harmony...I hope that others did. I am moved just thinking about it.
ReplyDeletebeautiful. haven't been up to the monastery in years; it's so peaceful up there.
ReplyDeletewe did the ferry on the long weekend; wish they would keep one in service just because :)
Judy, you should organize tours! We haven't been up to the monastery for a long time...maybe our daughter's wedding. The picture of the gate reminded me of that.
ReplyDeleteMy first visit to the Frazer Valley, thanks to you and your camera. What a delight for all of your friends, to have someone like you take the initative and set up a trip like this. What exquisite beauty you have in your part of the world.
ReplyDeleteYesterday our pastor recommended that all spend this week remembering the Doxology - and that those who didn't know the song, find the words and learn them. It's THE song for the ages!
ReplyDeleteI was so pleased with your post today and spiritually uplifted. I will be glad when I can organize my blog like that, and I will eventually.
ReplyDeleteQMM
It is so fun to see the same things that I've seen before through the view of your lens. I tried to find the home I lived in on Matsqui flats. . .couldn't it is exactly but it was enough to know it was there.
ReplyDeletewow! thanks for such beautiful virtual tour!
ReplyDeletesinging in 4-part harmony in that monastry! wish I'd been there to hear it!
Great Tour!
ReplyDeleteWe do live in an amazing place, don't we ?
There are so many things to see and enjoy!
Beautiful photos, Judy!!
Judy, you seem to have the most fun. What a beautiful place to visit. What a great tour.
ReplyDeleteMy next trip to the FV I am definitely heading to that beautiful sanctuary. thanks for tips.
ReplyDeleteYou live in an absolutely beautiful area of Canada, Judy. The monastery was very interesting. How nice to have given the gift of a song there.
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