The Solemn Profession of Father Joseph Tedesco ocso
On June 28, 2014, Father Joseph Tedesco pronounced his vows at the celebration of the Solemn Monastic Consecration that took place within the Eucharistic celebration. Abbot Stan was the celebrant and homilist with all the other priests of the community as concelebrants, as well as several priest friends from around the country.
After Abbot Stan’s homily (see text under Homilies), Fr. Joe pronounced his vows of Conversion of Life, Obedience and Stability. Then the solemn professed members of the community extended their hands in prayer over him as the Abbot prayed the prayer of Consecration and Fr. Joe prostrated before him. Fr. Joe was then clothed in the Monastic Cowl, the habit of theTrappist, and embraced each of his brothers and asked their support and prayers. The whole mass was a moving experience for family and friends who traveled from up and down the East Coast to be present for the ceremony.
The Solemn Profession was a culmination of six years of formation at Mepkin. Before entering Mepkin, Fr. Joe was a priest of the Dioceses of Trenton New Jersey for 28 years.
“With a grateful heart I am awed by the grace of my profession and the deep sense of peace and completeness it brings to my life now that I belong to God alone and live out this life with my brothers of Mepkin,” said Fr. Joe.