The Conception Abbey Poems

Author's Statement: I have been making retreats and visiting Conception Abbey, a Benedictine monastery and seminary in Northwest Missouri, since 1956. It continues to be one of those places on the planet that energizes my spirit and clears my vision. I must extend thanks and gratitude to the good monks of the Abbey whose hospitality has always participated in my urges to return to the place. These poems are spun from those experiences. I am grateful to Winthrop Press for permitting me to revisit and expand this group of poems with others spun from the Abbey's influence since the publication of the second edition.