We are blessed to have many of our young monks going on to the Sacred Priesthood. In early September, Br. Michael Mary and Br. Joseph Marie returned to Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary to continue their theological formation in the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas and the great Fathers and Doctors of the Church. God Willing, Br. Michael Mary and Br. Joseph Marie will be ordained to the subdeaconate in the upcoming months as one step closer to ascending the Holy Altar to offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. These two good Brothers will be wonderful preachers and teachers in the ways of holiness and especially helpful in leading souls in the spiritual life. It will be a joy for me as the prior to see them preach retreats at our monastery to the laity and assist our Discalced Carmelite Nuns by giving courses and preaching retreats. As the Brothers proceed towards their priestly ordinations in the next year or so, we thank God for the gift of more priests to offer Holy Mass and offer the Sacraments to souls.

Our little Br. Simon Mary of the Cross has also made the first step in his priestly formation by beginning his philosophical training.

What a glorious gift to the Carmelite family and the whole Church as so many of our men advance towards the Sacred Priesthood! Five more of our Brothers will begin their priestly formation in the upcoming years. Our monastery is truly blessed!