Echoes from the Bell Tower

On January 20, 2026, Novice Douglas Allison professed temporary vows at Saint Meinrad Archabbey and received the religious name Brother Evagrius. Temporary vows, which are usually for three years, mark the next step in discerning whether monastic life is his vocation.

Name: Br. Evagrius Allison

Hometown: Perrysburg, Ohio

What first attracted you to monastic life? Who or what most influenced your decision to enter the monastery?

The balance of work and prayer in The Rule of St. Benedict first attracted me to monastic life. Conversations with my spiritual director and visiting Saint Meinrad influenced my decision to enter the monastery.

What were you doing before entering the monastery?

I just graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance and was discerning what to do next with my life.

What has been the most surprising part of monastic life so far?

How much easier communal living has been than I originally thought. Knowing that everyone is there to grow in love of God and neighbor makes it simpler despite the challenges.

What aspect has been most challenging?

Cultivating an attitude of inner silence—it is not a skill that is easy to learn, growing up in a fast-passed world.

Favorite saint or monastic figure, and why?

My patron, Evagrius Ponticus, is my favorite saint for how he lived in the desert and for the wisdom he gained in battling temptation, which he passed down through his writings.

Favorite Scripture passage or line from The Rule, and why?

Chapter 48 of The Rule: “Idleness is the enemy of the soul. Therefore, the brethren ought to be employed in manual labor at certain times, at others, in devout reading.” This basic and simple instruction seems like common sense to those who want to live a more spiritual life, but in our modern age, fulfilling this command is easier said than done.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to listen to audiobooks and weave baskets.

View images from Br. Evagrius’ first profession here: https://saint-meinrad.smugmug.com/Archabbey/Professions-and-Ordinations/Br-Evagrius-Allison-First-Profession-2026.