Mark Caira Blessing 2

Abbatial Blessing of Dom Mark Caira OCSO Assumption of Our Lady 15 August 2009 Nunraw Abbey Rite of Abbatial Blessing performed by Cardinal K. P. O’Brien Presentation of the Rule After the prayer of blessing the new abbot comes before the cardinal. The cardinal gives him the Rule of St Benedict, saying: Take this Rule which contains the tradition of holiness received from our spiritual fathers. As God gives you strength and human frailty allows use it to guide and sustain your brothers whom God has placed in your care. Presentation of the Ring The cardinal places the ring on the ring finger of the new abbot’s right hand saying: Take this ring, the seal of fidelity. Wear it as a symbol of constancy and maintain this monastic family in the bond of brotherly love. Presentation of the Crosier Then the cardinal hands him the pastoral staff, saying: Take this shepherd’s staff and show loving care for the brothers whom the Lord has entrusted to you; for he will demand an account of your stewardship. Lastly Fr Mark puts aside his staff and receives the sign of peace from the cardinal, all the abbots, abbesses and member of his monastic community.