Members work to strengthen vitality of Crosier life and growth
11-FEB-26 (Phoenix) – The Crosier Fathers and Brothers will consolidate their two locations in the United States to strengthen the long-term vitality and stability of Crosier life and presence. The plan is for most members of the Crosier community in Onamia to move to Crosier Village in South Phoenix over the next three years.
“This was a very difficult decision for all of us, but the community made the decision for the good of our Crosier life and our ability to serve the Church in the best way we can,” said Fr. Alex Juguilon, osc, conventual prior of the Crosiers in the United States. Fr. Laurentius Tarpin, osc, the master general of the Crosier Order in Rome, approved the decision.
Phoenix is the fastest-growing Catholic diocese in the country. The newer Crosier campus and expanded outreach ministries there provide a greater opportunity to serve the Church and attract candidates for vocations, Fr. Alex said.
The Crosiers cited the challenge of sustaining two locations given the advancing age of the Crosiers living in Onamia and maintaining the century-old monastery building and grounds as other factors for the consolidation. Members are only using a small portion of the expansive campus. The Crosiers are committed to being faithful stewards of our resources and are exploring options to serve the best interests of Mille Lacs County and the Crosiers for their property.
“We are so very grateful to our benefactors, our employees, our Crosier Associates (lay association) and the wider Catholic community in helping us carry out our mission to touch suffering with hope. We take great comfort in the knowledge that our 115 years of service in Onamia have been a profound blessing and leave a rich legacy,” Fr. Alex noted. “I would like to thank Bishop Patrick Neary, Bishop Emeritus Donald Kettler, their predecessors and the Diocese of St. Cloud for their support and friendship through the years.”
The Crosiers gather as a community each day to pray the Liturgy of the Hours and celebrate Eucharist and are involved in a wide range of healing and pastoral ministries throughout the world. They provide ministry and service to many different groups, including seniors on fixed incomes, young adults, the incarcerated, veterans, and the Hispanic community. They also provide spiritual direction, serve on retreats and assist in parishes.
The Crosiers are consecrated men of one of the Roman Catholic Church’s oldest religious orders. They are also the only religious community whose national headquarters is located within the Diocese of Phoenix. Their campus, known as Crosier Village, serves as a place of light and healing in South Phoenix.
