Br. Sebastian Richey, O.S.B.

What led you to become a monk at Subiaco?

Reflecting on the journey that led me to Subiaco Abbey in 2008 while I was a youth minister in Texas, Ed Stocks and Father Tim Kelly convinced me to make a retreat, and the calm, peaceful vibe at the Abbey captured my heart. Fast forward, after coaching and teaching elsewhere, Subiaco kept calling me back. 

I spent a transformative month living like a monk in December 2009—peanut brittle-making, praying with the monks, and listening to where or what God was calling me to do with my life. Eventually, I applied, got accepted, and started my candidacy in February 2010. 

But, my story takes a turn post-simple vows when I didn't apply to the Chapter for solemn vows. I moved from the Abbey and returned to lay ministry in Louisiana and Alabama.  I was hired to teach and coach football and softball. Yet, the longing for Subiaco persisted.

Brother Eric's passing led me back to Subiaco. Live streaming, teaching, and coaching football and baseball were the highlights of this time.  Over four years, with Brother Basil's guidance, I realized leaving didn't change much. Subiaco's projects—peanut brittle, hot sauce, candles, brewery—became my passion even as a full-time teacher, dean, and coach.

Now, 3 1/2 years later, it's still where I want to be. Studying in the seminary is great, but those visits home to Subiaco hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to catching up with everyone and serving the community in whatever way God and the Abbot choose for me.

Tell us more about yourself!

Favorite Book of the Bible?

The Letter of St. James 

Favorite verse/verses in the Bible? 

James 2:14-26

Favorite Day of the Liturgical Year?

Christmas Day

Prefer to read a book or watch a movie?

Watch a movie

Starting after high school graduation, what schools/colleges/universities have you attended?

1995-1996 Troy University; 1997-1999 St. Louis University; 

2001-2003 Southern Illinois University;

2005-2006 St. Vincent College, Graduated, December 2006 with a BA in Catholic Theology;

2023 - present St. John’s University Seminary
 

Right-handed or left-handed?

Right-handed

Favorite sport to watch?

College Football

Favorite sports team?

Notre Dame

What time do you wake up in the morning?

Minutes before I need to be somewhere.

Favorite saint or saints?

St. John Paul the Great

St. Petersburg, Russia; Rome, Italy; Paris, France

Anywhere a cruise line is headed

What are some of your hobbies?

Computer drawing and puzzles

What is the name of a book you have recently read or a movie you have recently watched?

Brad Thor, Dead Fall

If you could have just one dessert for your last meal, what would it be?
Chocolate Brownie Lasagna from Olive Garden

Why did you choose the name you were given in Religious Life?

When I discovered my first choice was unavailable, I chose Sebastian because he is the Patron Saint of athletes, and I admired Fr. Sebastian of blessed memory.