“There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, ‘I don’t see the use of this; let us clear it away.’ To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: ‘If you don’t see the use of it, I certainly won’t let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.’”- G.K Chesterton,The Thing (1929)
At Nashotah House change comes slowly. We value those who have gone before us. We have trouble getting rid of things. Often we have to discover and learn why it is that something has been kept, whether it be a tradition or a box of papers.
The Blue House is where it started. Work, study, prayer. The Mission began its life together in daily prayers. The work was necessary to survive. The study was to be prepared. Prayer to fulfill all that God has called us to be. In a little house in the wilderness the Mission began. The message of Christ was carried forward.
It would have been easy at any point to say the Blue House had served its purpose or no longer held any value in the mission. But, you quickly realize that it is a place to rejoin our purpose, that is, our mission.
We continue in work, study, and prayer just as our founders.
You quickly realize that this is more than a symbol. This blue house embodies what it means to answer God’s call for the Church to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ whenever and wherever you find yourself.