Silverstream Priory in Stamullen (Co Meath) now counts four novices: (left to right) Br Ignatius Rahbek–Pedersen (Denmark); Br Cassian Aylward(Australia); Br Hildebrand Houser (Missouri); and Br John Baptist DeCant (Ohio).
Mr Joseph DeCant, a native of Toledo, Ohio, U.S.A., received the Benedictine habit in a ceremony in the the Chapter Room of Silverstream Priory on the morning of 1 May 2017. Mr DeCant is now called Brother John Baptist. The new Benedictine novice holds a graduate degree in Environmental Science with a specialisation in forestry, and was formerly employed by the National Environmental Protection Service in Washington, D.C. Br John Baptist learned of Silverstream Priory on the Internet and asked to be admitted to the noviciate after sharing in the community’s life for four months. He was attracted to Silverstream Priory by the community’s liturgical life, daily prolonged adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and family spirit. During his noviciate, Br John Baptist will study, among other things, the Rule of Saint Benedict and the writings of Irish Benedictine Blessed Columba Marmion. Br John Baptist will be employed in the stewardship of the Priory’s land, forests, and stream.
