Author: The Crusader Staff Writer Katherine Flynn
Br. Edward Mancuso is one of the most beloved monks at Belmont Abbey College. A native of New Jersey, he grew up in Morristown and went to St. Bonaventure University in New York. Before becoming a monk, Br. Edward worked in advertising for a pharmaceutical company, and during this time, he also discerned a call to religious life.
While at St. Bonaventure University, Br. Edward really enjoyed spending quiet time in front of the Blessed Sacrament. After he graduated, he visited a monastery in New Jersey. After several visits, he decided to become a monk. Someone recommended Belmont Abbey to him, and after 2 years of visits, he decided to join.
Br. Edward has been at BAC for 21 years and is the Guest Master for the monastery (meaning, he takes care of all non-vocational guests that visit). He also works in Campus Ministry and loves being around the students. He especially enjoys praying with students (especially through the intercession of Bl. Solanus Casey) and talking about the saints. A highlight for him is doing Saint’s Group with them.
What Br. Edward most enjoys about being a monk is the prayer life, especially the divine office and quiet prayer time. He is devoted to Bl. Solanus Casey and one of his favorite sayings is “Solanus is upon us”. He truly has a saintly soul and has helped many students (including myself) grow closer to God. Br. Edward is in Campus Ministry from 2-4 pm during the week and welcomes anyone who needs help, personally or spiritually. Stop by and see him, and you will certainly encounter Our Lord through him!
This article was originally posted in the Spring 2024, Issue 2 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue here.
