My Dear Templar Brothers and Sisters, Family in Christ,
I’ll be away while fulfilling my monastic duties, with limited access to the outside world. However, I’ll be at the Benedictine Convocation, stepping back to pray, reflect, and celebrate Mass alongside my Benedictine brothers.
This year is profoundly special for me: I’ll be making my Solemn Profession—my final vows as a Benedictine monk. This journey has unfolded over many years, beginning as a postulant, then as a novice, and continuing ... moreMy Dear Templar Brothers and Sisters, Family in Christ,
I’ll be away while fulfilling my monastic duties, with limited access to the outside world. However, I’ll be at the Benedictine Convocation, stepping back to pray, reflect, and celebrate Mass alongside my Benedictine brothers.
This year is profoundly special for me: I’ll be making my Solemn Profession—my final vows as a Benedictine monk. This journey has unfolded over many years, beginning as a postulant, then as a novice, and continuing through the formative time living under temporary vows.
Each stage has been a time of deep reflection and spiritual growth, cultivating a life few people can truly understand or experience. The monastic way, shaped by daily prayer, work, silence, and community, is not an easy path—God Himself taught us that the way is narrow, “as the eye of the needle.”
Now, as I prepare to commit to a lifetime of stability, continual conversion, and obedience—vows made before God and my monastic family—I am mindful of the grace and challenge of this calling. I first chose the path of monkhood before the priesthood, longing for a spiritual foundation rooted in Christ and tested by perseverance and fraternity. These years have shaped every part of my life, calling me deeper into God’s love and purpose.
I’m beyond grateful for the love and support of my family, friends, and the monks of Pax Abbey. As I retreat for this sacred time and take my final vows, please remember me in your prayers—as I will hold each of you in mine.
Pax,
Fr. John Kelmy Rodriquez OSB
GC John Kelmy
KCP, Priory of St. Michael the Archangel
