Encouraging and increasing monastic vocations is vital to the future of all of Saint John's. New vocations will ensure an ongoing Benedictine presence in our apostolates. Students benefit from the strong moral, spiritual, and principled leadership provided by the presence of monks who serve as the schools' teachers, faculty residents, spiritual directors, administrators, chaplains, and counselors. Parishioners benefit from the pastoral leadership of pastors who have been formed with a biblical and liturgical spirituality. To increase vocations, the abbey needs to increase its visibility and expand outreach programs. In addition, after joining the community, young monks must continue to receive excellent spiritual and theological training to prepare them to serve with Saint John's traditional generosity of spirit.

"Your gift is an answer to someone else’s prayer." That is our inspiration in supporting the monks. For their prayer support of Kris when facing cancer, the spiritual blessing Steve draws from the oblates, for our many friends in the monastery and their gentle example of faith, hope, and love, we joyfully support the monastic community.

Steve (SJU ‘83) & Dr. Kris Nelson
Scottsdale, Arizona