18 February 2025

Profound Thanks and Appreciation to Fr. Dorotej

At a festive lunch held on 2 February 2025, the leadership of Sant’Anselmo Basilica transitioned from Fr. Dorotej Toić to the newly-appointed rector, Fr. Sebastian Edavazhickal Paul. The handover took place during a special luncheon attended by members of the monastic community.

Fr. Dorotej Toić, monk of the Monastery of Ćokovac, Pašman, Croatia, dedicated many years of service to Sant’Anselmo, first as cassiere from 2004 until 2018 and later as rector of the basilica from 2018 until 2025. He also played a key role in establishing the Sant’Anselmo Chapter of Oblates, which will now be under the stewardship of Abbot Emeritus Edmund Power. As he embarks on the next chapter of his monastic journey, Fr. Dorotej Toić will continue his service in the Monastery of Maribor, Slovenia.

In recognition of his exceptional dedication and contributions to Sant’Anselmo, Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder presented Fr. Dorotej Toić with the prestigious Sant’Anselmo Medal of Recognition. The event was marked by heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for both the outgoing and incoming rectors.

From India to Rome: The New Rector’s Journey of Faith and Service

For Fr. Sebastian Edavazhickal Paul, a Benedictine monk from St. Thomas Benedictine Monastery in Kappadu, India, the call to a monastic life was not just about devotion but also about community. “My greatest inspiration to join a Benedictine monastery was its community life, especially its community prayer,” he shares. That sense of unity and shared spirituality has shaped his journey from India to Rome, where he now takes on a pivotal role at Sant’Anselmo.

Fr. Sebastian’s connection with Sant’Anselmo began in 2005 when he worked as the porter. But his role there quickly evolved. Over the years, he immersed himself in academic and spiritual pursuits, studying at the Pontifical Institute of Liturgy and earning his doctorate in 2013. Now, as the newly-appointed rector of the basilica, he carries significant responsibilities, from conferring sacraments to providing pastoral care and counseling to those in need.

Despite his deep commitment, Fr. Sebastian acknowledges the challenges ahead. “Lack of proper faith formation and religious conviction of youth, especially when they approach the sacrament of marriage, is the greatest challenge that I fear to face in my role as the rector of the basilica,” he admits. But his years of experience, both in India and Rome, have prepared him for the task.

Beyond his duties, Fr. Sebastian has embraced the culture of Italy in his own way — especially through its cuisine. His favorite Italian dish? “Surely pizza,” he says with a smile.

As he steps into this new chapter, Fr. Sebastian’s journey reflects a life dedicated to faith, learning, and service. His story is a testament to the power of community and the calling that has taken him across continents to serve others.