The 314th Chapter of the Order of the Holy Cross

This past week most of the monks of the Order of the Holy Cross converged on Holy Cross Monastery to attend our annual chapter meetings. Chapters happen at least yearly, sometimes more often. This was our 314th Chapter gathering.

This week, Br. Bernard returned home from a two week family visit in Belgium to attend to his biological brother Benoit's last days and his funeral. 

In Br. Bernard's absence, Br. Josép, the previous Associates Director, received two new Associates, Steven Deshler, from Manhattan, NY and James Rostron, from Silver Spring, MD.

Associates. Top, Br. Josép receiving Steven Deshler as an Associate. Bottom, Br. Josép receiving James Rostron as an Associate

Our annual Chapter meetings are not all about business. There is also a good deal of faith sharing, small group discussions and socializing. It furthers the unity of this mixed collection of monastic souls.

 Togetherness. From top left, clockwise: Bros. Leonard and Randy; Brothers relaxing in Pilgrim Hall at the end of a day of deliberations (three pictures); Brothers doing group Lectio Divina in the North end of the monastic library; Brothers enjoying a board game in the North end of the library.

As is traditional, the Life Professed renewed their Benedictine vow at the end of  Chapter. Later a few formal pictures were taken.

Portraits. From top left, clockwise: Mr. Will Mohan, Bros. Josép and Ben, The Rev. Raphael Okafor; Will, Ben and Raphael; the whole community with its visiting bishop, The Rt Rev. Andrew Diestche: the Juniors and the Junior Master (Bros. Bruno, Mpumelelo, Ephrem, Francis, Josias, Aelred and Jacob); our two interns, Mr. Jack Mullins and Mr. Jeremy Cannon.

On May 25, our brother Lary H. Pearce, OHC, died peacefully at the Veterans Home in Montrose, NY. Brother Lary was born December 17, 1939. He was in the 34th year of his Life Profession. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Br. Lary Pearce, OHC. RIP.

Happy Pentecost!