October 2025
In our liturgical calendar and the ordo of our monastic congregation, October always points us forward to a significant anniversary: October 21, 1987, the day our Abbey Church on Benet Hill of the Prince of Peace Abbey was solemnly dedicated. On that day, the Most Reverend Leo T. Maher, Bishop of the Diocese of San Diego, California, was the principal celebrant of the dedication.
It was truly a day of celebration. A few of our monks still remember it clearly—Fr. Charles Wright, Bro. Raphael Meyer, Bro. Anselm Clark, Bro. Joseph Black, Fr. Stephanos Pedrano, Bro. Daniel Sokol and Bro. Mario Quizon. At that time, I was in Rome studying for the priesthood and could not be present, but the significance of that sacred event has always remained close to my heart.
Why do I refer to it as a “sacred ceremony”? Because the church edifice is far more than bricks and mortar. It is, as the rite itself declares, a “special sign of the pilgrim Church on earth, reflecting the Church dwelling in heaven.” Through the solemn rite of dedication, the Abbey Church was forever set apart for sacred celebrations. It became a visible sign of heavenly realities, a place where heaven touches earth.
Since that blessed day, this house of God on Benet Hill has been built not only with stone, but with faith, love, and the prayers of our community. It stands because of the generosity of benefactors and friends. We must remember that any church building that has undergone the sacred rite is a VISIBLE sign of God dwelling among us. It is a “place where heaven touches earth.” Here, countless faithful have sought peace, consolation, strength, and communion with the Lord.
At a time when many local parish churches must close their doors early in the evening or late in the afternoon, the Abbey Church at Prince of Peace has become a beacon in our area. Day and night, it welcomes those who long to be in God’s presence at hours when their parish church may not be open.
For this, we give thanks to our Lord and God, and for all who come here seeking reconciliation, blessing, and the embrace of His love. May this sacred house continue to be a place of prayer where heaven truly meets earth.
Abbot Sharbel Ewen, O.S.B.
Prince of Peace Abbey
