Father Thomas Peter Wahl, OSB, monk of Saint John’s Abbey in Collegeville, Minnesota, entered eternal life on July 4, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, he was the youngest of four children. After graduating from Cathedral High School in 1949, he earned a BA from Saint John’s University in 1954 and professed solemn vows as a Benedictine monk in 1955. Ordained a priest in 1958, Father Thomas pursued advanced theological studies, earning an STL from The Catholic University of America and an SSL from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome. His scholarship culminated in a PhD from Union Theological Seminary with a dissertation on the Psalms, reflecting his enduring love of biblical prayer and liturgy.
Father Thomas’ life was a rich tapestry of pastoral care and academic devotion. He served as associate pastor at Saint Bernard’s and Saint Boniface parishes and taught Hebrew and Old Testament at Saint John’s School of Theology for over two decades. He founded the Jerusalem Studies Program in Israel and deepened his pastoral formation through clinical pastoral education. In 1993, he embarked on a 25-year mission in Japan, serving international communities in both English and Japanese, and was prior of Trinity Benedictine Monastery. Father Thomas was a sought-after spiritual advisor, teacher, translator, and author of several theological works.
A man of joyful spirit and deep curiosity, Father Thomas was also known for his love of bread baking, icon painting, calligraphy, and environmental stewardship. He was a devoted walker and cyclist, and his warm, welcoming nature left a lasting impression on all who met him. Always eager to share conversation, ideas, and encouragement, Father Thomas lived a life of prayerful service, intellectual depth, and gentle hospitality. May God reward him abundantly.