Beginnings

Novice Joseph Wagner

Br. Elias Leeuw

The past week has been a busy one here in the monastery. There was the sudden death of Fr. Rupert, and his funeral early in the week, and then the Solemnity of Saint Meinrad on Saturday. On Thursday and Friday, there were two additional events of a special nature.

First, we received Joseph Wagner (no relation) into the novitiate -- with the new arrival ceremoniously knocking on the two large wooden doors at the front of the monastery, which a couple days earlier had swung open to receive the body of Fr. Rupert. You can read more about Novice Joseph by clicking here. Then, former Novice Joshua Leeuw made his profession of temporary vows (obedience, stability, and conversion of life, for three years), receiving the name Br. Elias. Read more about Br. Elias by clicking here.

May God complete the good work he's begun in both Br. Elias and Novice Joseph, and guide their continued discernment of our way of life with peace and wisdom.

Meanwhile, please continue praying for more vocations to our way of life, and for those of us who've already made solemn vows. Be assured of our own for you -- we pray each day for the Church and the world.