A Tragic Disappearance in a Remote Monastery
A monk, known as Brother Ignatius, has been presumed dead after vanishing from a secluded island monastery. Justin Evans, 24, was last seen wearing a white robe while on the remote island of Papa Stronsay, part of the Orkney archipelago. His disappearance has left his community in shock and concern.
The Golgotha Monastery, where he lived, is located on an isolated island, making the search for him particularly challenging. The local church has expressed fears that Brother Ignatius may have come to harm due to the harsh sea conditions surrounding the area. The Diocese of Aberdeen has officially acknowledged the “disappearance and presumed death” of the young monk, who originally hails from New Zealand.
Brother Ignatius was a member of the Redemptorist Community, a Catholic order inspired by the teachings of St Alphonsus Liguori. However, the order faced significant scrutiny when it was ordered to leave the diocese in July 2024 following a Vatican investigation into allegations of abuse and unauthorized exorcisms, as reported by the Catholic Herald.
A Close-Knit Community in Distress
Father Michael Mary, the founder of the traditionalist Catholic order Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer, has spoken about the ongoing efforts to locate Brother Ignatius. He mentioned that helicopters and police have been involved in the search across Papa Stronsay and nearby islands.
“‘The situation is utterly tragic,’ he said. ‘We are a close community and this has hit us all very hard and is deeply hurting.’”
According to Father Mary, Brother Ignatius had two brothers at the monastery and had been living there for approximately two years. He also suggested that the monk may have suffered from long-term hypothermia before his disappearance. “We hope to find him and hope that the sea will give him up soon,” he added.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Police Scotland has confirmed that searches of Papa Stronsay and surrounding islands will continue in the coming days. Inspector David Hall emphasized the extensive nature of the search, which involves local police resources and partner agencies.
“Our thoughts are very much with Justin’s family at what is a very difficult time,” he said. “Extensive and detailed searches using local police resources and partner agencies have been carried out on the islands of Papa Stronsay and Stronsay, including along the shorelines.”
He further noted that coastal areas on other nearby islands will be searched by local and specialist police resources. “Any further relevant information reported to police about Justin and the circumstances leading up to him going missing will be acted upon. At this time there is nothing to suggest any suspicious circumstances or criminality.”
A Legacy of Humility and Charity
The Diocese of Aberdeen has shared its deep sorrow over the loss of Brother Ignatius. A spokesperson stated, “The Diocese has learned with deep sadness of the disappearance and presumed death of Justin Evans, also known as Brother Ignatius, aged 24, a member of the Redemptorist Community on the island of Papa Stronsay.”
Brother Ignatius was known for his humility and charity, according to the diocese. His absence has left a profound impact on the community, which continues to hope for his safe return.
History of the Monastery
The monastery on Papa Stronsay was founded in the late 1980s by the traditionalist Catholic order Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer. This order, also known as Transalpine Redemptorists, was established to preserve the practice of celebrating the liturgy in Latin during a time when the Roman Catholic Church encouraged the use of local languages.
The monks of the order purchased the island after its founder, Father Michael Mary, and some priests and brothers visited Orkney on holiday. Despite facing challenges, including a ban imposed by the Diocese of Christchurch, the order has remained committed to its mission.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Brother Ignatius has sparked a widespread search and mourning within the community. As the investigation continues, the hopes of his loved ones remain strong. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
