Br. Anthony Pierce, O.S.B.

What Led You to Become a Monk at Subiaco?

I went to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School in Richard, Texas, for some of elementary school before seventh grade in Corpus Christi, Texas, followed by eighth grade at Our Lady Good Counsel school in Little Rock, Arkansas. I attended Catholic High School for Boys in Little Rock during my freshman and sophomore years. But when I heard about Subiaco, I knew that was where I wanted to go.

Knowing the tuition was expensive--and knowing my father--I prepared for the discussion by drawing out all the money in my bank account. I had been saving for a car, and the amount covered half of the tuition. I told my dad I would help because I knew things were tight at home. My father reluctantly took me up to interview, not expecting me to be admitted. When I was, that experience of someone believing in me launched me into two of the most academically challenging years of my life. Then, I finally graduated as a proud member of Subiaco Academy’s class of 1979!

I first considered a vocation when I came to school as a student and saw how awesome the monks were. I initially came here, partly to get away from my home situation and partly for the fantastic education. The Academy is where I found what love really was. Br. Tobias was my dean and my mentor from the first day I met him. He took me under his wing and taught me that there were people that actually cared for you. He perpetually taught us by his incredible example. 

Before joining the monastery, I worked in cardiology for about fifteen years at St. Vincent's Infirmary Hospital in Little Rock. Having the monks believe in me never left my mind and was part of what drew me back home to Subiaco, despite a fulfilling and successful career. Meeting Mother Theresa was also a life-changing experience. 

My favorite part of being a monk… I love all of it. The community gathers are extremely special to me. Even more, maybe, I love the freedom to dedicate my life to God. Praying is the main point of my life and fuels my ability to help others, whether students, elder monks, guests, alumni, or friends. Praying for people and watching God work in others continually teaches me that every day is a gift.
 

Tell Us More About Yourself!

Favorite Book of the Bible?
Psalms

Favorite verse/verses in the Bible? 
Jonah being in the belly of the whale

Do you play a musical instrument? If so, which instrument?
No

Favorite Day of the Liturgical Year?
Easter Sunday

Prefer to read a book or watch a movie?
Watch a movie

Starting after high school graduation, what are the schools/colleges/universities that you have attended?
St. Joseph Seminary; St. Gregory's University

Right-handed or left-handed?
Right-handed

What time do you wake up in the morning?
4:45 AM

Favorite saint or saints?
St. Anthony and St. Mother Teresa

Favorite place you have travelled?
Spain

What is the name of a book you have recently read or a movie you have recently watched?
Movie: The Two Popes

If you could meet any person dead or alive, who would it be?
Pope Francis

Do you prefer beer or wine?
Wine

Who is the monk that inspired you the most—and why?
Brother Tobias DeSalvo, O.S.B.

What type of music do you usually listen to?
Country

What is your favorite food?
Mexican

If you could have just one dessert for your last meal, what would it be?
Chocolate Meringue Pie

Why did you choose the name you were given in Religious Life?
I was the last in five generations to get the middle name of Anthony. St. Anthony's feast day is my dad's birthday.

What were the other names you requested to receive at profession?
Gabriel

Who had the most influence on you growing up?
My aunts