Nate and I enjoy learning about other religions, so we couldn't drive through Maine without visiting the Shaker Village in Sabbathday Lake. There are only three Shakers left today, and Nate and I got to meet one of them, Brother Arnold. Some of the Shakers' distinct beliefs are categorized as the "Three Cs"--Celibacy, Consecration of goods to the community, and Confession of sins. They are industrious and devout people, and it was well worth the detour to learn about their community. The tour we had was one of the best we can remember.
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| Brother Arnold and Brother Freeman |
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Not only were Shakers known for being master furniture craftsmen,
but they also invented the flat broom and were one of its leading manufacturers. |
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| Mason just saying "hello" to some of the sheep. |
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The Shakers grow many types of fruit, and are
known for harvesting large amounts of apples....and pears. |
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| Nate and Mason shaking with the Shakers. |
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| The Shaker community is truly idyllic. |
That is so beautiful. I wonder if the reduction in numbers is related to the first of the 3 C's? It seems like Sidney Rigdon or some of the other Church leaders were originally from the Shaker Community. So interesting!
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