The Benedictine Abbey of Waegwan announces with Christian hope the passing of Br. Pius Ahn Geumbok, OSB, who was called to the Lord on June 20, 2026, at the age of 91, in the 55th year of his monastic profession. Born in 1935, in Masan, Korea, he grew up in a faithful Catholic family and received the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation in his home parish of Wanwol-dong. From his youth, he nurtured a deep faith that would guide him throughout his life.
Responding generously to God’s call, Br. Pius entered the Benedictine Abbey of Waegwan in 1968. He made his first profession in 1971 and his solemn profession in 1974, dedicating himself completely to the Benedictine ideals of stability, obedience, and conversion of life. Over the decades, he faithfully served the community in many different roles, including work in the abbey’s workshops, secretariat, publishing house, gift shop, and household services. Wherever he was assigned, he carried out his duties with humility, diligence, and a quiet spirit of service.
Br. Pius never sought recognition for himself. Instead, he devoted his life to supporting his brothers and seeking God in the ordinary rhythm of monastic life. His steadfast fidelity, simplicity, and generosity were a source of strength and inspiration to the community, who gives thanks for his long life of dedication and entrusts him to the merciful love of God. May the Lord welcome His faithful servant into eternal peace and the joy of the heavenly banquet.