April 23 – Remembering Brother Kevin

At New Melleray we have a tradition of gathering to share thoughts, memories, and experiences of a brother after his death. Today we gathered to share our reflections on the life of our Brother Kevin. Sharing included stories in Br. Kevin’s life before coming to New Melleray. Several spoke of his incredible organizational skills and attention to detail. Many admired his ability to live a deeply devotional spiritual life while carrying the great responsibilities of managing our liturgy and our farm for decades. A number of brothers shared particular experiences of Br. Kevin’s mentoring infused with true monastic humility.

from Constitutions and Statutes: of the Monks and Nuns of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance
C. 8 – Monastic Consecration

By monastic profession a brother is consecrated to God and joined with the monastic community that receives him. At this time the consecration received in the sacraments of baptism and confirmation is renewed and given vitality. The brother binds himself in faithful stability to a sincere conversion of life through ready obedience until death.

from The Rule of St. Benedict
Chapter 5 – The Tools for Good Works

The workshop where we toil faithfully at all these tasks is the enclosure of the monastery and stability in the community.(RB 4.78)