Now safely returned from St. Mary's Petersham, and recovered from jet lag, Fr. Dunstan has been appointed Oblate Master in place of Fr. Martin.

Fr. Martin also now hands over to Fr. Dunstan another task he has carried for many years: that of monastery Porter. In Monastic tradition, the Porter is the one who answers the front door, including at the most awkward possible times. He is also the one who normally either picks up the ringing phone, or responds to messages left on the voice mail.

No one would ever think of accusing Fr. Martin of lacking in zeal in the fulfilment of these duties. But advancing years render him more than ready to give them up. He remains our "refectorian", keeping our refectory clean and tidy, and twice a day setting it all up for meals. He also of course remains available for whatever Priestly duties come his way.