Benedictine Brother Efrain Rosado Casanova, a monk of St. John’s Abbey in Collegeville, was ordained to the transitional diaconate July 9 at St. John’s Abbey by Bishop Donald Kettler.
Born in Merida, Mexico, Brother Efrain received a Catholic upbringing and education from his parents and the Marist Brothers. After earning a bachelor’s degree in engineering, he worked in the field for eight years before exploring a vocation to the religious life.
Following his final profession with the Benedictines in Mexico, he began a two-year master’s degree in monastic studies as the St. John’s School of Theology and Seminary. He was granted permission to transfer from Mexico, and was welcomed as a member of the St. John’s monastic community.
Since arriving at St. John’s Abbey, Brother Efrain has taught at St. John’s Preparatory School and has served as a Latino ministries leader for the last four years. Currently, he is continuing his seminary studies in order to be ordained to the priesthood.