Special to The Message
Andrew Levering professed his temporary vows as a Benedictine monk in a ceremony Aug. 6 at St. Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad, Indiana.
He’s completed his novitiate, a year of prayer and study of the Benedictine way of life. As is the custom during the profession of vows, he chose a religious name. Novice Andrew is now Brother Isaac.
Brother Isaac, 25, is a native of Libertyville, Illinois, where he was a member of St. Joseph Parish and attended Vernon Hills High School in Vernon Hills, Illinois. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Christian theology from Hope College in 2021.
Before entering the monastery, he worked as a forklift driver.
Temporary vows are typically for three years. This period offers a continuing opportunity for the monk and the monastic community to determine whether monastic life is, indeed, the right vocation for this individual.