Faculty Spotlight: A Life of Service, an Interview with Fr. Raban

At Subiaco Academy, the monks play a vital part in shaping the rhythm of daily life through prayer, teaching, coaching, and quiet example. Their presence provides students with a steady foundation for both learning and spiritual growth. In this Q&A, Fr. Raban shares how monastic life and education come together in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in the shared routines that define life at Subiaco.

Q: What is your role at Subiaco Academy?
A: I'm a monk who, in addition to our primary work of prayer, also teaches English, coaches cross country and track, serves as master of ceremonies, and helps administer the Academy. 

Q: How did you come to join the Subiaco community?
A: After teaching in Arkansas and developing my spiritual life, I felt somehow drawn by God to join monastic life. Initially I was skeptical, but I eventually discovered that joining Subiaco was a spectacular decision that has brought no shortage of joy to my life.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: I wake up at 5:30 AM, attend morning prayer at 6:30, have Mass at 7:15, have breakfast, teach, coach after-school sports, and participate in community prayers and recreation in the evening.

Q: What makes teaching at a monastery school unique?
A: As monks, we have two key advantages: we can be totally available to students without family responsibilities, and we offer stability - students know we will always be here to support them for the rest of our lives.

Q: What part of the Academy's mission resonates most with you?
A: The core mission of service to those who come here resonates with me. As Benedictine Monks, we take a vow of stability to this place. We of the Academy are here to help students during their challenging teenage years by providing consistency, safety, and support.

Q: What's your favorite spot on campus?
A: The trails near the original monastery, especially the area around St. Peter's Chair. Interestingly, this location was chosen because it reminded the monk who chose the property of his native Switzerland!