Benedictine monk from Idaho visits Judge Memorial CHS

Intermountain Catholic

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Courtesy of Judge Memorial Catholic High School

For two days in September, Judge Memorial Catholic High School hosted Father Kenneth Hein, OSB, a Benedictine monk from The Monastery of the Ascension in Jerome, Idaho. Fr. Kenneth celebrated seven daily Masses in two days with 12 theology classes and gave instruction on the symbolism behind the parts of the Mass.

"Fr. Kenneth answered questions on Catholic theology, moral teaching and various other topics," said Pete Espil, Judge Memorial’s campus minister. Espil also is an oblate in the Benedictine tradition and coordinated Fr. Kenneth’s visit. "He related well to the students, and shared a lot of knowledge. We are glad our students were able to have this unique opportunity."

The Monastery of the Ascension, a community of 15 Benedictine monks, has been in southern Idaho since 1965. They live a life of prayer, work and reading according to the Rule of St. Benedict and serve the Catholic Church through various ministries, which include parochial work, retreats, teaching and scholarship, ecumenical activities, counseling and spiritual direction, and social service.