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Today, we celebrate the joyful occasion, of not only the Epiphany of our Lord, but also the monastic profession of Br. Saverio. We are witnesses to a very special event, in which a novice dedicates himself–through temporary vows that last three years—to follow Christ in the monastic life, here at the birthplace of St. Benedict.
Reflecting on the readings for today, we can say that Br. Saverio follows in the footsteps of the Magi and imitates their example. Br. Saverio comes from far away, in search of God. He follows an interior star, which sometimes shines brightly, and sometimes disappears leaving him puzzled. The spiritual journey is arduous, with many difficulties. But, the star led him to this place, to this house. Br. Saverio has seen the Child Jesus with Mary his mother, and has prostrated himself; he has adored him during this period of his novitiate. Now, on the day of his profession, he wants to offer his gift, the most precious thing that he has. The Magi gave gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but Br. Saverio says with the Apostle Peter: Silver and gold I have none; but what I have, I give you. (Act 3:6). Open his chest and what do you see? His vow chart, a symbol of the most precious and unimaginable gift: his very self, his life, his will, his heart. Through the monastic profession, Br. Saverio offers himself to the Lord. When he signs his vow chart and places it on the altar, the chart gets placed under the corporal where the Body and Blood of Christ will be offered to the Father.
Br. Saverio, we pray for your today as we join eagerly in the rite of your oblation to our Lord.