Monks demand silence

The tiny monastery of Nova Nada in Yarmouth County will close its doors by Advent if local logging operations don't stop. The contemplative monastery attracts about 500 visitors a year for retreats in monastic silence. But that silence has been pierced in recent months by logging efforts of J.D. Irving Ltd., part of the multi-billion dollar Irving empire. The monks want a total ban on logging within two miles of the monastery. Irving has offered a one-mile ban, with logging between one and two miles away during daylight hours. The monastery has received ecumenical support. It is used by many Anglican clergy, including Rev. Melville Langille of the nearby parish of Yarmouth. He said the monastery is a physical reminder of the admonition: "Be still and know that I am God."

Diocesan Times