Novice Class of 2021-2022
On September 2nd, four 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. Moses Mary Jacobs
Br. Moses Mary is from Pacific Palisades, CA and earned his B.A. in Economics (Business Concentration) from Trinity University in San Antonio, TX. His desire to be a Dominican finds expression in the words of Psalm 39:3: My heart became hot within me. As I mused the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue. He also experiences a burning desire to share the Truth who is Christ because He has given meaning to his life and his suffering. Br. Moses Mary enjoys outdoor activities, abiding by the ocean, and playing volleyball. He asks St. Thomas Aquinas to intercede for him, not because he is always the greatest student, but because he seeks to know the Truth.
Br. Ephrem Gill
Br. Ephrem is from Tacoma, WA. He obtained a B.A. in Mathematics (Teaching Concentration) from the University of Washington where he also served as a Peer Minister at the UW Newman Center. The depth and majesty of the Word as revealed in the Prologue to John’s Gospel - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1) - speak to his desire to study and teach the ineffable truth of Christ Incarnate. Br. Ephrem enjoys running, hiking, and music, especially cello, viola, piano and voice. As a candidate for the cooperator brotherhood, he asks St. Martin de Porres to intercede for him that he may imitate this great Dominican’s life of profound, humble service to others.
Br. John Paul Puschautz
Br. John Paul grew up in Chicago, IL. He spent the last 10+ years in religious life with the Brothers of St. John and earned his M.A. in Scientific Theology from Seton Hall University during that time. Jesus’ words - If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples and you will know the truth and the truth will make you free (John 8:31-32) - have particular significance for him. He desires to help others find the freedom that comes from conforming one’s life to Christ. Br. John Paul enjoys hiking, outdoor adventures, and basketball. As a formally-trained artist, he asks Bl. Fra Angelico to intercede for him that he may share the fruits of his contemplation not just in words but lasting, tangible ways as well.
Br. Isaiah Simon
Br. Isaiah grew up in Redondo Beach, CA. He earned his B.A. in Theology and Philosophy from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. The words of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel inspire him: Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and so enter into his glory? And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself (Luke 24:26-27). He hopes to show how all the scriptures point to Jesus and the saving mystery of the cross. Br. Isaiah enjoys basketball, volleyball, hiking and exploring new places with friends. He asks Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati to intercede for him that he may draw others to Christ by a life lived with strong faith and generous charity.
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Interested in helping these young men? Please support them with a gift to the Rosary Sunday Dominican Student Appeal
