We cannot say enough about Neal Smith’s contributions to the sisters’ community over his twenty-five years with us. He has been a colleague, friend, member of the Bingen Community and Sunday Assembly, and “honorary sister.” We are grateful for his Benedictine heart and his commitment to the mission and vision of the community. Over the years, Neal has used his considerable skills in many ways to help us implement our vision. He developed and put into operation a ten-year master plan for the monastery which led, in part, to the restoration of 100 acres of prairie on the monastery grounds. Neal was invaluable as the owner’s representative during the construction of our “green,” platinum LEED-certified monastery building. And the list goes on and on. Neal’s creativity and dedication to the sisters’ mission and vision made all the pieces fall into place whenever he was working on a project.
We say thank you Neal for your dedication, drive and determination, we hope you enjoy your retirement and we look forward to continuing our friendship with you and Diane in the years ahead.