Br. Pius Rombach

What first attracted you to monastic life?

Growing up, my parents instilled a great sense of family in my sister and me. This, I believe, is the key factor in why I desire to become a Benedictine monk. We hung out a lot as a family, as well as with our family friends, who would come over every Friday just to be together. Because of this, I love community. I love not only to be around people, but to be with those whom I know and share a close relationship. As I started to feel a call to follow Christ in the religious life it felt like a perfect fit for me – especially when I came to know the monks here during college. I saw how they loved one another and truly enjoyed each other’s presence. I also saw how they were annoyed by each other, but they kept loving with great patience and mercy – that, I wanted. I felt called to Benedictine life knowing I wouldn’t be moved around; being in one place, I would get to know and love my brothers.

What about you has changed since you entered the Abbey?

Since I’ve entered the monastery I have been told by numerous beloved family and friends that it seems like I took a “chill pill.” Of course, we never see our poor qualities, so this was a surprise to me, but not an insult. I must have been a very excited person, even though some brothers would say I still am! I’m sure this came from simply the calm, peaceful atmosphere of the cloister.

What advice would you give someone who is going through the discernment process?

To anyone discerning a religious or priestly vocation I would say, try to find a home in these places you are curious about. The reason I came to St. Benedict’s Abbey was because it already felt like home – I was very comfortable coming to St. Benedict’s. Also, offer your discernment to our Blessed Mother.