Abbot Lugo Says Time Right
To Step Down at Abbey

SHAWNEE — Abbot Martin Lugo, O.S.B., recently announced his decision to retire as abbot of St. Gregory’s Abbey. His tenure as the ninth abbot of this Benedictine community will end in January, 2006. Abbot Martin stated that he was stepping down for reasons of age and health after 10 years as superior of St. Gregory’s Abbey, two as administrator and eight years as abbot. In 2006 he will also celebrate his 50th anniversary of profession as a monk.

 “The numbers seem right to step down,” said Abbot Martin. “Ten years as superior and 50 years of profession.”

According to Abbot Martin, what he cherishes most is the joy he feels from watching others complete their faithful service.

“Monastic living is unique,” said Abbot Martin. “It’s a life of seeking a balance of work and prayer, and also using your talents in service to others.” He recited the words of Jesus, “The greatest of all is the servant of all.” A favorite quote of Abbot Martin’s is from Mother Theresa of Calcutta. “Faithfulness not success” reads a plaque on his desk. Abbot Martin reiterates, “God expects faithfulness not success.”

Born Richard Raymond Lugo in Los Angeles in 1939, Abbot Martin was interested in the priesthood at an early age and so attended St. Gregory’s High School in Shawnee, graduating in 1952. He attended St. Gregory’s College and graduated in 1955, and then entered the Novitiate when he was given the new religious name of Martin. He made first vows in 1956, graduated from St. Benedict’s College, Atchison, Kansas in 1958, and then studied Theology for the next four years at St. Gregory’s School of Theology. He was ordained to the Priesthood in a class of three by Bishop Eugene J. McGuinness of the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa on May 1, 1962, in the Abbey Church. His first assignment was as an associate pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes parish in East Los Angeles. His ministry involved a number of roles in Benedictine-staffed parishes in the Los Angeles area for many years, until he returned to St. Gregory’s in 1994 to be Prior. He then served for the following two years as administrator. On February 5, 1997, Abbot Martin was elected as the ninth abbot of St. Gregory’s Abbey.

The election of a new Abbot will be the focus of prayer for the entire community over the next months.

 “It’s a matter of discernment,” said the Abbot. “We will be praying and listening for the Holy Spirit to guide us into this new era and time of transition.”

Abbot Martin’s thought for others in ministry is the assurance of God’s faithfulness. “Life is a challenge,” he said. “But know that God is with us and that we can always trust his presence and faithfulness to lead us through what life brings.”

After his resignation Abbot Martin plans to continue his involvement in the Abbey community, praying and being available to help in any way he can.

St. Gregory’s Abbey is a community of Benedictine monks. Founded in 1875, it shares a monastic tradition which has been a vital part of the Roman Catholic Church for more than fifteen hundred years. The Abbey’s prayer and Mass services are open to the public, and guests are warmly welcomed. Tours are scheduled on a request basis.