Join Archabbot Martin de Porres Bartel, O.S.B., at 3 p.m. Sunday, January 19, for his talk, “Ask the Abbot.” Archabbot Martin will field questions from Oblates regarding aspects of Benedictine spirituality, the Archabbey, being a monk, or related topics. The talks take place in Saint Vincent Seminary classroom Brownfield 202. Oblates and others interested are invited to attend.
Archabbot Martin was elected archabbot of Saint Vincent Archabbey on June 23, 2020. As such, he is leader of the first Benedictine monastery established in the United States, the chancellor of Saint Vincent College and Saint Vincent Seminary. Saint Vincent Benedictines operate the Benedictine Military School in Savannah, Georgia, and the Penn State Campus Ministry Program at State College in Pennsylvania. In addition to his responsibilities in this country, the Archabbot is also the leader of monasteries in Brazil and Taiwan.
Prior to his election as archabbot, Archabbot Martin had been serving as the administrator of the MACH1 (Monaca, Aliquippa, Center and Hopewell) Parish Grouping in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, now Mary Queen of Saints Parish. Prior to his assignments in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Archabbot Martin served in the Diocese of Greensburg as pastor of Saint Bruno Parish, South Greensburg and administrator of Saint Benedict Parish, Marguerite (2008-2013) and as pastor of Saint Martin Parish, New Derry (2001-2009). He served as the 14th president of Saint Vincent College from 2000 to 2005.
Oblates and guests may attend vespers at 5 p.m. in the Basilica and stay for supper in the guest dining room. Those wishing to stay for supper should contact Father Donald Raila, director of Oblates, at least two days in advance at 724-805-2291. Following supper, Oblates will meet at 6:45 p.m. in Brownfield 202 to dscuss a book from the current reading list.
