Letter from the Abbot

January 2026

Here we are at the beginning of a new year, and there is much to consider as we enter into this season of renewal. Resolutions are always part of the New Year, but when we reflect on resolutions that shape our spiritual outlook, this time can become an opportunity for deeper renewal and growth in faith.

Jesus has challenged us over and over again in Sacred Scripture with these words: “Come, follow me;” “Be not afraid, I AM with you:” and “Take up your cross.”

May this be the year to consider meaningful resolutions that deepen our faith and draw us closer to God. Perhaps this could be the year we begin to pray the Divine Office regularly in our daily lives. This could be the year we commit ourselves by attending spiritual conferences or by joining a Bible study group. Are we open to deepening our relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary through prayer and reflection, thereby following her example of faith?

We could take time each day to reflect on what we are thankful for, thus fostering a spirit of gratitude; make time for others; choose the more humble purchase; encounter the poor in the flesh; refrain from judging others; befriend those with whom we disagree; honor our commitments; form the habit of turning to the Lord in prayer; and, most of all, learn to be content and joyful with what we have, rather than focusing on what we lack.  

Pope Francis, of blessed memory, offered the following resolutions for the faithful: to take care of our family life; to nurture our relationships with others; to be mindful of how we speak; to heal the wounds of the heart with the oil of forgiveness; to care for our work with enthusiasm, humility, competence, passion, and a spirit of gratitude; and to be cautious so that we do not fall into envy, lust, hatred, or other negative attitudes. These suggested resolutions are both practical and deeply rooted in the teachings of the Catholic faith.

Blessings to you throughout this God-given year, and may we remain open to all that God desires to offer us as we seek to follow Him more closely.

In Christ,

Abbot Sharbel Ewen, O.S.B.
Prince of Peace Abbey

Prince of Peace Abbey

Oceanside, California

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Upcoming Events

JANUARY 2026

Candidate James Romero Birthday

21

St. Meinrad, Martyr, Feast / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

22

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

February 2026

Fr. Paul Farelly O.S.B Birthday

2

The Presentation of the Lord, Feast / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

7

43th Anniversary of the Elevation of Our Monastery to an Abbey

10

St. Scholastica, Sister of St. Benedict, Feast / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

18

Ash Wednesday (Day of Fasting and Abstinence) / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

20

St. Francisco Marto (of Fátima)

22

First Sunday of Lent / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

March 2026

13

68th Anniversary of the Founding of Our Monastery

19

St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Solemnity / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

21

The Passing of our Holy Father Benedict, Abbot, Solemnity / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church

21

Monk-Led Day of Recollection / 11:30 AM / Prince of Peace Abbey Library

Topic:
Facing Death with Faith and Grace

Date:
Saturday, March 21, 2026

Time:
Conference begins at approximately 11:30 AM, following the 10:30 AM Conventual Mass

Duration:
Approximately 90 minutes

Location:
Prince of Peace Abbey Library

Description:
This conference offers a reflection on death and dying with grace, rooted in faith and trust in God. Participants will explore challenging situations surrounding suffering and how grace can be present and active during times of trial.

Who Is Invited: While the conference is especially oriented toward those aged 50 and over, all are welcome to attend.

Why Attend:
Death is a reality we will all face, either personally or through accompanying someone who is suffering. This day of recollection invites participants to reflect on approaching death with faith, peace, and trust in God.

Presenters:
Rev. Damien Evangelista, OSB
Deacon Don Palencia, MD

Capacity:
Limited to 50 participants

25

The Annunciation of the Lord, Solemnity / 10:30 AM / Abbey Church