At the beginning of September, six young men received the habit of the Order of Preachers and began their first year of formation as novices. Blessed with different talents and interests, they look forward to giving witness to the kingdom of God as they continue their formation as Dominican preachers.
Br. John Winkowitsch
Brother John is from Cut Bank, Montana. He has a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Thomas Aquinas College, as well as a Ph.L. and Ph.D. in Philosophy from Catholic University of America. He studied karate for five years, enjoys games of strategy, and is good at billiards. Before entering the Order, Br. John's students referred to him as Batman because he was both the coolest and most intimidating teacher around.
Br. Ian Mary Parelius
Brother Ian is from Petaluma, California. He has a B.A. in Philosophy and Integral Studies from St. Mary's College of California, and a M.T.S. from Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. He has been playing the piano for the last 15 years, and is currently learning how to play the organ. He is considered the practical joker of his class, and served as a FOCUS missionary before becoming a Dominican.
Br. Paschal Strader
Brother Paschal is from Yucca, California. He has a B.S. in Computer Science and Physics from California State University San Bernadino, and a M.A. in Physics and Ph.D. in Experimental Astrophysics from University of California Santa Barbara. He values the many friendships he has developed over the years, is very creative, and enjoys star-gazing, especially looking at open clusters like the Pleiades.
Br. Athanasius Thompson
Brother Athanasius is from La Habra, California. He has a B.A. in Philosophy from California State University Los Angeles. He enjoys playing the blues and classic rock on bass guitar, and describes himself as an "ancient language nerd."
Br. Andrew Thomas Kang
Brother Andrew Thomas is from Fullerton, California. He has a B.S. in Computer Science from University of California San Diego. He likes rock climbing, can play the ukulele and the guitar, and was a parishioner at St. Dominic's Church in San Francisco before entering the Order.
Br. Paul Maria Müllner
Brother Paul is from Boise, Idaho, but was born in Switzerland. He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Boise State University. He worked as a gold miner, and enjoys Nutella hazelnut spread (which was developed by a devout Catholic family).
