An initial profession

This week's big event was the initial profession of the Benedictine vow of Br. Jacob (previously known as Anthony). We also welcomed two vocationers for a few weeks: Mr. Will Mohan, of Rockville, MD, and Mr. Raphael Ugochukwu Okafor, of Albuquerque, NM. They will be with us a few weeks experiencing monastic life as it is lived here and discerning if this life is meant for them. Please hold Jacob, Will and Raphael in your prayers.

Br. Jacob's initial profession. From top left, clockwise: before the service with Bros. Scott and Randy in choir; examination by Br. Robert Leo, the Assistant Superior, of the formator (Br. Josép) and the candidate (Br. Anthony, still at that moment); Br. Jacob being clothed with the monastic choir cowl: Br. Jacob embracing his brothers: Br. Jacob back at his place in choir vested with his new cowl.

Several friends and relatives of Br. Jacob came to witness his deepening commitment to the monastic life.

Br. Jacob's initial profession (continued). From top left, clockwise: Bros. Josép and Jacob; our three initially professed Brothers (Bruno, Jacob and Francis); the whole community (together with our two vocationers Will and Raphael): Bros. Jacob, Ben, Francis and Ephrem (who is the Junior Master overseeing the continued formation and wellbeing of our initially professed Brothers): Br. Jacob with his parents and his sister; Br. Jacob with his many friends and relatives.

This Saturday, we received Kathy Jennings, of New York, NY, as our latest Associate. Kathy has been a regular visitor to our guesthouse for several years. It was good to welcome her in the extended "Holy Cross family."

A new Associate. From top left, clockwise: Br. Bernard with Kathy Jennings on the occasion of her reception as our Associate; a Hudson River sunrise picture courtesy of Associate Jean Fiorelli; the big oak in the snow (two pictures).

Peace and all good to you.