At the heart of Sant’Anselmo in Rome, where monastic tradition meets academic pursuit, resides Father Ruberval Monteiro da Silva OSB. A Benedictine monk and accomplished artist, Fr. Ruberval embodies the synthesis of liturgical scholarship and sacred artistry, enriching both the Collegio and the Ateneo’s Pontifical Institute of Liturgy.

Born on 25 December 1961, in Rolândia, Brazil, Fr. Ruberval entered monastic life in 1983, professing vows to the Abbey of the Resurrection in Ponta Grossa, Brazil, in 1985 and receiving priestly ordination in 1993. His academic journey began with philosophical studies at the Pontifical Catholic University of Curitiba and a theology degree from the Mater Ecclesiae Institute in Ponta Grossa. In Rome, he earned a diploma in Christian Archaeology from the Pontifical Institute of Christian Archaeology in 1997, followed by a Licentiate and Doctorate in Theology from the Pontifical Oriental Institute, focusing on Christian iconography.

As a professor at the Pontifical Institute of Liturgy at Sant’Anselmo, Fr. Ruberval coordinates the specialization in sacramental dogmatic theology and directs the Master’s program in Advanced Specialization in Art for Christian Worship. His teaching emphasizes the interplay between liturgical practice and visual expression, drawing from early Christian art and symbolism.

Fr. Ruberval’s artistic vocation, nurtured during his novitiate, has led to the creation of numerous works across Brazil, Latin America and Europe. His art, encompassing murals, stained glass and mosaics, reflects a deep engagement with the sacred traditions of Christianity, particularly the Romanesque period and Eastern iconography. Notable projects include the “Stelliferi conditor orbis” mural in the Santissimo Salvatore Chapel in Amandola, Italy, and contributions to more than ten churches in Italy in recent years.

Beyond large-scale installations, Fr. Ruberval’s illustrations have been featured in liturgical publications, such as the “Living Liturgy” series, where his work complements and enhances the liturgical texts.

Fr. Ruberval Monteiro da Silva’s integration of monastic life, theological scholarship and artistic creation offers a compelling model for the formation of monks and scholars. His presence at Sant’Anselmo underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering a holistic approach to liturgical studies, inviting members of the Benedictine Confederation to consider the enriching opportunities available for their communities in Rome.