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Although Solemn Vows mark a monk’s final and permanent commitment to the monastery, Simple vows –made for three years– are not without their importance. When we measure how long a monk has been in the monastery, we count from the date of his simple profession. Solemn vows are then seen more as a confirmation of those initial promises.
Another reason why simple vows are important is that a new name is given. In keeping with the biblical tradition, from Abraham and Jacob to Peter and Paul, when a monk makes his simple vows he receives a new name as a sign of the conversion he has begun. The new names are always a source of much speculation in the weeks and days leading up to the vows. Pafnutius and Barsenufius are thrown around as a couple of the more colorful possibilities. The Prior makes the final decision, having received three choices (ranked in order of preference) from the monk. The Prior can choose any of these or choose another.
On September 8th our two novices made their simple vows and took the names; Br Peter Damian Smith and Br Francis Davoren. We thank God and ask your prayers for them