|
Volume 32, Number 4 |
Richardton, ND 58652 |
October 2004 |
Benedict Fischer Makes Final Vows
as a Benedictine Monk
by Terrence Kardong, O.S.B.
On Sunday afternoon, July 11, the Translation of St. Benedict, Bro. Benedict Fischer pronounced his solemn vows as a Benedictine monk before God and the community. Abbot Brian received his promises in the name of the monks and officiated at the Mass before a large congregation. Fr. Abbot's homily contrasted the current concept of “channel surfing” with the three Benedictine vows of stability, obedience and conversatio morum.
Daniel Fischer was born in Owatonna, Minnesota, January 16, 1973. His parents Rodney
and Carolyn moved to Bismarck when he was eight years old. He attended St. Mary's
Central High School until his graduation in 1991. Further education for Dan included
a BA in English at the University of Minnesota, Moorhead, in 1997. He then did pre-
Dan came to the monastery in January of 2000, and pronounced his temporary vows in July of 2001. His formation director for four years was Bro. Alban. During his formation years at the Abbey, Bro. Benedict continued the study of Latin that he had begun at Cardinal Muench. He became so proficient at the ancient language that he was able to tutor a group of Dickinson children during this past year. They returned the favor by singing at his profession ceremony.
Brother Benedict played basketball at St. Mary's, and he has continued to be a devotee
of serious exercise ever since. He is a voracious reader, with preferences reflecting
his English degree. He is also interested in the films that are available in the
community every weekend. Benedict has a fine singing voice, good enough to be included
in the monastery schola. He will begin seminary studies this fall at St. John's University,
Collegeville, MN, where his confrere, Bro. Manuel, will also be a fourth-
Bro. Benedict claims that his commitment to the Catholic Church was rekindled during a stint of ten weeks in Guatemala in the summer of 1994. He worked there with Pat Atkinson in the God's Child program, building housing and retaining walls. That experience of volunteering made a deep impression on Bro. Benedict; he has never lost his interest in the people and Church of Latin America. The large contingent of clergy who showed up at Benedict's profession was a tribute to his continuing involvement in the local Church.
