Ted Fiddie Retires
After 27 years of loyal service to Mepkin Abbey, Ted Fiddie retired on his 75th birthday, August 31st, 2020. Father Joe, accompanied by the monks, made a presentation to Ted to thank him for his work with us. Father Joe outlined the many tasks which Ted had undertaken over the years in keeping the monastery, the retreat center, the library, and the grounds up to a very high standard. Ted was always available to the monastery to help out, and many will remember his sterling work after hurricanes and other natural disasters.
In replying to Father Joe’s words, Ted made an emotional address to the monks in which he thanked them and said how he loved the community and loved Mepkin. He said he had particular pleasure in working with the abbots, Father Christian, Father Francis, Father Stan, and Father Joe. He also kept all the monks in his heart, and he said that he hopes that he was of service to them. He expressed his happiness that his son-in-law Joel will take over from him, so Ted will always be in the background as a grandfather figure here at Mepkin. The monks expressed their appreciation to Ted with a prolonged round of applause, wishing him well in his retirement.