Brother Richard-Maria of the Brothers of Saint John, has lived—and continues to live—a truly full and remarkable life. Born 54 years ago in the Netherlands, he has recently completed a profound chapter of his spiritual journey by consecrating himself to the Holy Trinity through the solemn vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience.
A Pilgrim of Hope in 2025
But his path to this moment was anything but straight or easy. Along the way, he earned a bachelor’s degree, fell deeply in love, and set out on adventures that most only dream of: traveling by bike, living in a cave near the Syrian monastery of Mar Musa al-Habashi, and embarking on a six-month itinerant pilgrimage to India. There, he volunteered with the Missionaries of Charity, serving “the poorest of the poor”.
Interview of broher Richard-Maria by brother Vladimir
A glimpse of the chapters:
0:00 – Where are we, and what just happened?
1:46 – How did your spiritual journey start? What were the milestones?
3:40 – Journey to India
6:24 – Discovering the Christian Catholic faith
9:52 – How did you get to know the Brothers of Saint John? Steps toward religious life
10:55 – Vocational weekend: What is God calling me to?
13:24 – If I am searching for God’s will for me… Spiritual and vocational discernment