Maronite Monks Of Jesus Mary and Joseph
Who are the Maronite Monks of Jesus Mary and Joseph ?
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The order of the Maronite Monks of Jesus, Mary and Joseph was founded in 20ll by Abouna Jonathan Decker (monastery Prior).
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This new order is under Bishop Abdallah Elias Zaidan of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles. Bishop Zaidan signed the monks final typicon (constitution) on Christmas of 2014. The monks are in full compliance/union with the Magisterium of the Catholic Church with the complete blessing of the bishop of Rome.
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Abouna Decker was the Pastor at St Sharbel’s Maronite church in Portland Oregon for 26+ years.
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The first Monk to join the Monastery back in 2011 is Monk Anthony Alles. He was recently ordained to the priesthood on Dec 27 2014.
What is the Mission
and
Charisms of the
Monks?
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We are a Maronite Catholic Community of Contemplative monks called to prayerful life of service to the church, the clergy and the world
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We are Seeking the Heart of God in silence and solitude with the heart of His Divine Son
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We want to Bringing light to the Church and the world through a life of devoted intimacy with God
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We want to share the fruits of this life with the clergy and laity through Fraternal Love, Hospitality, Spiritual Healing and Direction
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We are called to live Eucharistic lives, entering into communion with the Holy Trinity
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We are called to Contemplative lives of unceasing prayers of reparation, praise, thanksgiving.
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We are here to assist others in discerning the spirit of God in their lives.
The monks wear a simple black habit with an iskeem (belt) and hood, have beards and wear a crucifix around their necks. There are currently five. They rise daily at 3 a.m. to pray, and celebrate the Holy Mysteries (Mass) at 6:30 a.m. They follow a set schedule, which includes prayer, study, work and offering spiritual direction. They have two meals daily, with the main meal in the afternoon. They’re in bed by 9 p.m.