Last night we bade an unexpected farewell to Minna, the gentle pony who shared the barn and paddock near Tree of Life with Puck, the goat.
After working at a local YMCA camp as a trail pony, she spent her retirement years at GilChrist, greeting guests and graciously accepting treats offered over the fence. Her sweet presence dwelled on the grounds and overlooked the labyrinth as guests walked their prayers. She will be deeply missed by our staff who cared for her, by guests who savored the creaturely interaction, and surely by Puck, who pestered her amiably and tirelessly.
Her health took a sudden turn Monday evening. Under a sunny sky, we buried her today in the pasture, joined by several GilChrist guests on retreat, sharing Minna stories and leaving items in her grave before laying her to rest.