Rt. Rev. Francis Michael Stiteler, OCSO, Abbot
Abbot Francis Michael, a native of Philadelphia, entered the monastery in 1974, professed solemn vows in1980, and was ordained on April 9, 1983. He earned a master's degree in pastoral counseling from Loyola University in Baltimore. In 2004, Father Francis was elected the seventh abbot of the Cistercian Monastery of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Georgia. Founded in 1944 the community comprises 43 monks living the gospel under the guidance of St Benedict and the Cistercian (Trappist) heritage. The abbot serves for a term of 6 years after which he can be reelected.
Prior to his election, Fr Francis served the community in a number of areas: Master of novices, Prior, Sub prior, Master of juniors and Director for monastic studies. He has also worked in the bonsai department at the monastery and is considered a master in growing these natural works of art.
Dom Francis Michael noted that he is the next to the youngest monk at the monastery, "Like Benjamin in the Psalms, the youngest is leading..." For him the monastery is a School of Love wherein "To lead is to serve".
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Dom Francis Michael Receives Abbatial Blessing