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Abbatial Blessing Dear Abbot Lawrence: On August 10, 1994, with great conviction and joy, I laid my hands on your head to ordain you a priest of Jesus Christ. It is with that same conviction and increased joy that today I have imparted upon you the Abbatial Blessing of the Church. In the twelve years between your ordination and today’s blessing, you have faithfully and effectively carried out your priestly ministry. As a vowed Religious and a member of Saint Gregory’s Monastery, you witness to the tremendous love of God for His people, His Church. As president of Saint Gregory’s University, you spearhead the principal external ministry provided by this Abbey. Now, you have freely accepted the further responsibility that your brother monks have placed upon you - to be their leader as Abbot. Therefore, on behalf of our various Catholic communities, I extend to you our sincere congratulations and a pledge of our prayers, support and collaboration. Your days ahead will undoubtedly be busy, demanding and challenging. However, if you put yourself totally into “running the show,” you will indeed “run into” difficulties, frustrations and failures. But, if you put yourself into the hands of the Lord, you will discover the benefits of faith and the joyful results of truth. I believe this is the encouragement Jesus gave us when He responded to His disciples inquiry about salvation. Jesus said: “For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.” (Mark 10:27) Abbot Lawrence, place your full trust in the Lord. He will never fail you. Your great founder, Saint Benedict, gave you a Holy Rule, a copy of which I presented to you in the ceremony. That Rule is characterized by the words Ora et Labora, Pray and Work. Both are necessary and they are neither in conflict nor in competition. There is indeed a natural tension between them because they can easily be set off balance and thereby create havoc. Abbot Lawrence, you are an energetic young man and the great demands of modern life, as well as those of the monastery, the university and other responsibilities will provide all the Labora you need. Therefore, let the Ora, Prayer be your principal focus. Prayer, which is communication with God, will give you the real meaning and direction as well as the insight for your vision, plans and work. Abbot Lawrence, this service began with a beautiful introduction by Archabbot Timothy and an inspiring homily by Abbot Matthew. To their words, I wish to add a very small personal comment: I am glad you are a priest. I am delighted you are now an abbot. But I am especially happy that in the Providence of God, you have been called to serve here in Oklahoma. Ad multos annos! Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran |