Bishop makes pastoral visit to St. Paul’s Abbey

PASTORAL VISIT  Bishop Serratelli made a pastoral visit to St. Paul’s Abbey in Newton Aug. 2 where he celebrated Mass and spent time with the Benedictine monks living there.

NEWTON   Bishop Serratelli made a pastoral visit to St. Paul’s Abbey here celebrating Mass, spending time and having lunch with the Benedictine monks living there Aug. 2.

The Benedictine monks at St. Paul’s Abbey are members of the Ottilien Congregation. Currently 12 monks are living there, including three priests, one permanent deacon and eight brothers. Also at the Abbey, are three religious sisters, one Franciscan and two Benedictines, from Tanzania, who are temporarily living there as they study at Seton Hall University in South Orange.

Seven of the monks living at St. Paul’s are from Korea. In December 2001, the abbey welcomed six Korean Benedictine monks of the same Ottilien missionary congregation as those who belonged to the German-based community. With the arrival of the Korean monks 15 years ago, the abbey experienced a revitalization. Benedictine Father Samuel Kim is the current prior of the Abbey. In addition, two monks came from Africa — one from Tanzania and one from Togo. Abbot Joel Macul, who is marking 40 years in the priesthood this year, is one of three American monks living at the Abbey.

During the Bishop’s visit, Father Samuel said, “Bishop Serratelli gave us words of encouragement as we live our lives in the monastery. We were happy that he took the time to visit us. We are honored to live here and serve the Paterson Diocese.”