Series on Profound People: Ann Beane

Hello all - 

“So, where are you from?” Anne asked.

It’s the standard question that everyone asks when greeting a new Holden staff member. It was Anne’s second or third day of work, so I had seen her around the kitchen but had never actually gotten to talk to her. She had signed up to make the day’s bread, so I wandered over to the mixer, leaving the oatmeal in its giant cauldron behind for a few moments, and chatted for a few minutes. 

“I’m from Cannon Falls, Minnesota.”

“Ah – I’m from Shoreview!” she responded. (There are tons of Minnesotans here!)

“What do you do there?” I asked. I learned that she was a schoolteacher, having finished her education at St. Olaf College in the 1970s. From there conversation flowed naturally, and I learned that she had a son attending Luther Seminary, embarking on his internship year in Oregon. Later, we bonded over bread baking and theology talks. It’s become a ritual to sit next to each other and Vespers and catch up on our days.

In only five weeks, I’ve learned a great deal from Anne. She showed a strong work ethic and great hilarity (it’s amusing how funny a jalapeno can be when you’re making green salsa early in the morning). J I will miss her in the kitchen, but we’ve already made plans to get together for coffee in February when I return home.

There are some really fantastic people here. Both in the kitchen and out. I wish everyone could come to Holden and see what happens here – spiritually, emotionally, relationally – as God’s work abounds.

From the Village –

Dean