SSJE Elects Brother Keith Nelson as Superior
The Brothers of the Society of Saint John the Evangelist (SSJE) have elected Brother Keith Nelson as their new Superior, for a term of three years. A private service of installation will take place in the Monastery Chapel on September 1.
Brother Keith has been a member of the Society since 2014. He made his profession in life vows in 2019. Before his election as Superior he served the community in a number of capacities, including as coordinator of SSJE’s residential internship program, Novice Guardian, and Deputy Superior at the Monastery in Cambridge MA, as well as Senior Brother at Emery House. He currently also serves as the community’s Vocations Brother. In these roles he has been constantly fed and formed by active participation in the formation of others.
Raised in New Jersey and Alabama, Brother Keith received a BA from Kenyon College, Gambier, OH (2004) and a Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School, Cambridge, MA (2008). He was ordained to the priesthood in the Diocese of Massachusetts in 2023. He has lived in the Boston area since 2006. Prior to entering the Monastery, Keith worked as a high school history and theology teacher, as teacher and director of a nonprofit adult education program for new immigrants, and as a parish administrator. Since coming to the community he has preached, led retreats, and offered quiet days, across the United States and online, and is active as a spiritual director and confessor.
Since the election of SSJE’s prior Superior, Br. James Koester, in 2016, the community has embarked on a process of raising up a new generation of leaders. With over half the community between the ages of 32 and 55, Brother Keith (age 42) is poised to continue this vital work of generational shift.
During his time as Superior, Keith hopes to continue the Society’s tradition of integrating the catholic and evangelical, the apostolic and the contemplative, the traditional and the prophetic. He is especially interested in how our answers to basic questions, like “Why Jesus?,” can create openings to share stories of spiritual hunger in a culture where traditional religious belonging baffles many. He believes that monastic life remains a vital source of inspiration and meaning in the contemporary Church as well as to seekers outside it. He hopes to continue nourishing SSJE’s pattern of thoughtful and faithful teaching, preaching, and writing in new formats and through new collaborations.
An amateur visual artist, Keith loves drawing and illustration, as well as learning about art history, Medieval theology, and contemplative ecology. Weightlifting keeps him grounded in his body, and wandering in the woods keeps him rooted in his love for Creation.
Following his election Brother Keith said: “This is both a critical as well as a richly creative juncture in the Society’s life and ministry. Our eldest Brothers offer deep wellsprings of wisdom and experience, even as we continue to attract younger members with their own astonishing gifts, courage to take risks, and trust that it’s worth going ‘all in’ for Jesus. I am humbled and excited to lead our brotherhood as we step boldly into God’s future together.”
The Right Reverend Rob Hirschfeld, Bishop of New Hampshire and SSJE’s Bishop Visitor, responded to news of the election with these words: “Brother Keith’s election as Superior signals the Brothers’ trust in his ever closer walk with Jesus and their knowledge of him as a devoted learner and a compassionate pastor. He is now called to guide the Society toward its mission to be nothing less than God’s instrument for the healing and repairing of our world and all of God’s creation. I am sure that all who participate in SSJE’s wide-reaching fellowship will support Keith and the Brothers in the next chapter of its life together in Christ. I rejoice in this moment!”
The Bishop of the Diocese of Massachusetts, The Right Reverend Alan Gates, said: “The presence and ministry of SSJE is one of the great charisms in the Diocese of Massachusetts. The companionship I have enjoyed with Brother James Koester has been a great blessing, and I know that in two months then-new Bishop Julia Whitworth will be eager to begin the same joyful and enriching partnership with the new SSJE Superior, Br. Keith Nelson.”
The Rev. Daphne B. Noyes, a deacon and member of the monastery’s congregation, said, “Like many others who have been lifting the community in prayer during their time of discernment, I rejoice to learn of Brother Keith’s election as Superior. Under his leadership, the Society’s tradition of creating and nurturing faithful ‘men of the moment’ will endure, to the enrichment of the community, the Church, and those throughout the world who have come to rely on SSJE for thoughtful, engaged, visionary Christian witness.”
Brother Keith, Congratulations on being elected as Superior! Many many blessings to you, the brothers and community of SSJE! The congregation of the Church of St. Augustine & St. Martin will keep you all in prayer!
Today’s Brother Give Us a Word is LISTEN, written by Br. Keith Nelson on 7/5/20. He writes, “I am coming to believe that we will see this time of global plague and it’s myriad impacts as a catalyst of unfathomable renewal.” It feels like, especially with the recent shift in our American political arena, this evolution, this unfathomable renewal, IS happening now! How wonderful that Br. Keith is Superior during this time!
My retreat leader is the next Superior! How wonderful. Bro. Keith planned and led a most remarkable study and meditation on Julian of Norwich in March 2020. His blessed abilities will lead the Society ably.
Keith congratulations on your election! Is has been a gift to journey with you on your postulancy and ordination, and now as Supervisor. I commit to continuing prayer for SSJE’s ministry, each of the brothers by name and for their individual ministries, and for my love and financial support.
Congratulations Keith and SSJE! I look forward to the continuation of this amazing ministry as you move into new leadership. I will continue to pray for you all.
Beloved Souls,
God is delighted! As Ignatius wrote, “Thou has given all to me. To Thee, O Lord, I return it.” We are blessed. Brothers, you are a blessing that flows throughout our world, far beyond what you know. Thank you for your faithfulness and witness.
Brother Keith, my daily prayers now shift to surround you in strength (Ps. 46), wisdom (Jms. 1:5), and peace (Phil 4:7). God is with you!
gratefully,
Brett+
Congratulations to the whole Society on the election and this new beginning in their community life! So many prayers to offer: first, in thanksgiving for Br. James’ inspired guidance of over the past years; next, for guidance and support for Br. Keith as he takes the reins of leadership; and finally, for all the brothers as they enter this new phase of their life together. God’s peace and joy be with you all!
Good news for the future of the Society and the larger group of us you spiritually support. I consider SSJE my spiritual home base, and your leadership is essential to the broader church.
See you in November when I come for my retreat.
God bless you richly, Br Keith,on your exciting appointment.
Beginning in the 1970s-80s, the Fathers of the English Congregation played a hugely formative part in my journey. You and the Community will be reaching people and places you can’t imagine, and for far longer than you could ever dream. I rejoice from across the Pond at the ways in which the Society’s charism is ever new and ever the same. Thank you all for the ways in which your oblation and fellowship is renewing the Church! With prayers and very best wishes at this time of hope and renewal.
It’s heartening to hear about the continuing health and vitality of SSJE. I have valued every encounter with the Brothers and am grateful for my time spent in retreat and spiritual direction. I pray (and anticipate) that the community continues to thrive and share its blessings as Brother Keith enters into his new leadership role.
May God bless you richly in this ministry, Keith, and the Brothers as well! May you hear God’s calling clearly, and have grace and courage to follow.
Dear Brother Keith, your election as Superior of SSJE is a testament to the trust that your brothers have put into you and their confidence in your abilities! I was particularly moved by how the announcement articulated your role as their pastor — May you be a strong, steady, supportive shepherd to the monastic community as it continues its important work and ministry. Please know of the support and enthusiasm of us in the worshipping community as you take on this tremendous responsibility. There is nothing to fear! This is exciting!! Peace and blessings in Christ.
My dear brothers,
Blessings and congratulations to all as you enter this new chapter in the life of the community.
In gratitude for your ministry and affection for you all,
Reid Farrell
Wonderful, wonderful news, Br Keith! So glad you’ve been given the helm and the deck, as they say in the Navy when a new Watch Officer takes over. SSJE is so mindful of the importance of giving leadership roles to younger Brothers. It will ensure that the Society keeps in touch with current thinking and challenges. May your leadership encounter Fair Winds and Following Seas! Blessings, Gresh
Br. Keith — a heartfelt congratulations on this beautiful development. May God shine upon you and out from within you. Blessings on all the challenges and opportunities that this new position will bring. Blessings on the entire beloved community as you navigate transition gracefully. Thank you for being a torch of light and good news, comfort and peace.
Congratulations and much blessing as you take up your new position as Superior , Brother Keith.
We All Saints Sisters ( UK) will be keeping you in prayer
Brother Keith. I remember over 6 years ago I sat with you with deep sadness as I tried to deal with my husband’s loss of memory and the need for him to move into a facility that could better care for him. Your calm, loving understanding and simple words helped me get through that day. Always remember those of us that carry no visible pain that you can help, merely by being a messenger of God’s love. I wish you great success in your elevated role at SSJE. .
Brother Keith, I wish you solace and peace in your personal prayers and energy and hope in your community’s worship and prayer, that you are deeply nourished for your new work, and that the ministry of SSJE continues to be a beacon of light to those who travel the seas of faith in Christ. I have observed you humbly preparing for this new role this year, and am grateful for your election. With continuing prayers, Elsa
Dear Brother Keith:
My prayers ,and the prayers of the good people at Saint Paul’s in Beaufort, NC , have been with the brothers during this period of discernment. I am delighted to see the fruit of that discernment in your election. Your gifts for leadership are many and varied and will serve the community well as the new frontier in the spiritual country beckons. Our prayers will continue as you transition into this demanding role and the community to your leadership. May the God who called you grant you patience, grace and wisdom to live fully into this new aspect of your vocation; and most importantly, may there be joy!
Congratulations and Blessings for Br, Keith and the community, at this time and for the future as you continue working and living the unity of all Christians.
So many blessings and so much love! May God bless you and keep you, may God’s face shine upon you.
Brother Keith, You are in our daily prayers. We are thrilled God has led you to SSJE. May God grant you wisdom, discernment and courage as you lead SSJE into its future.
Astonishing and wonderful news. This is an exciting and thoughtful new chapter. It will surely be of great benefit to all who “hunger and seek”. May you be fully supported by the SSJE community, your brothers and God’s great witness and love for you and for this community.
Dearest Brother Keith,
We could not be more thrilled for you and us! You are such a genuine, honest, thoughtful leader, making us think and feel God’s grace and presence in new and fascinating ways! I love your candor, reflection, encouragement, and agency. Let us celebrate this monumental event soon!
With love,
Maida and Bob Broudo
Brother Keith!
I am thrilled for you and for SSJE – congratulations, what terrific news! All my best wishes!
My prayers and blessings are with you as you move into this next chapter of SSJE ministry!!
Blessings to Br Keith on his new ministry, and many thanks to all of the Brothers for their compassion, inspiring teaching and kindness.
May God bless you Brother Keith. Congratulations.
Br Keith, on behalf of the Conference of Anglican Religious Orders in the Americas, I offer congratulations and assurances of prayer on the occasion of your election as Superior of SSJE. Your fellow Superiors look forward to working with you to help make Anglican Religious Life better known and understood in our Churches and to support one another in the joys and challenges of leadership.
Fr David Brinton OGS
General Secretary, CAROA
Congratulations and blessings to you Br. Keith
Congratulations Brother Keith and may our God’s richest blessings be upon you. I also give thanks for Brother James and his exemplary ministry these many years. SSJE is a mainstay in my life and ministry and I am grateful for my over 25 years of coming to the guesthouse on retreat. Without exaggeration, I’m not sure I would have been able to have been sustained in my life as a priest, husband, and father without your gentle hospitality. Deo Gratias.
Br James, thank you for your ministry and courageous leadership as Superior. Keith and I send our prayers and affection. Your room awaits in Vancouver whenever you’re out this way (in the Pacific Southwest).
Br Keith, I am confident in the prayerful discernment of the Community in their election of you as the next Superior. Having only met you briefly my instinct is that you will bravely step into the moccasins left by your predecessors who have served as Superior. I know you will seek the wisdom of the Elders who surround you.
To all the Brothers, thank you for your collective witness to the gospel and for your abiding prayers. I am grateful for FSJ.
Dear Brother Keith, we sat together for supper just last Thursday, and little did I know then that the grace of God would bless you and the beloved members of SSJE by your election as Superior of the Society. I will add you to my daily prayer list, and I beseech the Holy Spirit to bless and guide you in all your endeavors. God bless you, Brother Keith.
May the Lord bless & care for you as I surely believe he did with bro. James k.
Dear Br. Keith
So happy to hear the good news of your election. All of us who keep you in our prayers will no doubt be blessed with your Spirit-inspired leadership.
Looing forward to seeing you in March at the Monastery.
Blessings to all the Bothrs.
Jane Tiernan Reilly
Wickford, RI
Congratulations Br. Keith! Wishing you many blessings in the years to come.
Congratulations Br Keith. You and the whole SSJE community will be in my prayers and I continue to grow in my faith through your words and God’s continued grace.
Congratulations, Br. Keith. God bless you as you undertake this responsibility and God give you joy in this ministry. I always comfort myself with the thought that where God calls us, God also empowers us. God bless Br. James, too, as he steps down from this ministry. May he also be blessed and empowered in whatever lies ahead for him.
Alleluia and amen. God’s every blessing upon you Brothers and your new Superior. Holding you all in prayer as you open this new chapter together.
Blessings and Good on Ya!!
i add my joy and support for SSJE and the brothers. I am pleased that the communitas has seen a strong and invitatory light and illumine of leadership in Brother keith , and has entrusted him with this responsibility. My prayers are ever with SSJE. They will now include Brother keith for leadership in this time and history. Leaders in this age need every ounce of support and backing they may be granted. Gratia Bonum… a quiet calm and an adventurous vision be yours as a collective force for Eugelion! Hear the bells ringing…
dub brooks+
Congratulations Brother Keith on this important step in your vocation, and congratulations to those who wish to walk the next phase with you. I will pray for you and all at SSJE for a period of re-awakening to the call of Jesus with a deepening of commitment.
Brother Keith! Congratulations and Thanksgiving prayers & Good Wishes for your election. I’m glad also that my Bp of NH “Bishop Rob” as we know him, is SSJE’s Visitor. I know he will be a great support for you.
I am now 90, and go back to the days of Fr Pederson, a good influence on my days “up the hill” to (then) E.T.S. I know that Br Koester and you follow so well in that heritage.
Congratulations, Brother Keith. May God’s presence help you to inspire and guide the SSJE community of Brothers in harmony and fellowship as you envision the future for SSJE as well as the lay community who seek sanctuary and refuge within your walls, through your retreat offerings, and daily online reflections.
✨Alleluia!✨
I give thanks for the whole ministry of SSJE, which reaches through the ether to me in New Zealand, praying for the community during transition & beyond, and in particular for you, Brother Keith. God bless you richly and ever be your guide.
A blessed gift you are to SSG and I will look forward to seeing you in the coming months… Congratulations on this remarkable responsibility as she will be in my prayers… As a fellow Canon graduate, it is wonderful to know that the solitude of Gambier and the peace that surrounded you then Has brought you into this life of witness and contemplation. May the spirit give you strength all your days… Many blessings, Mark.
May the service and ministry of SSJE and all who are touched rejoice and support Br Keith’s leadership! I am filled with hope!
How wonderful. All the best to you all in this new chapter.
Br Keith,
Although I don’t know you very well I am struck by your inspiring messages, your vision of future leadership of SSJE and your open and welcoming personality. I am overjoyed that you will lead the Brothers and the Fellowship into the next phase of our shared journey.
Blessings and continuing prayers,
James
Hearty congratulations to you, Br. Keith, and the entire SSJE community. This is wonderful news indeed!
Thank you for your ministry and the excellent use of the talents God has bestowed on you.
I am a friend of Tom Shaw and have been to Memorial Drive twice. Br. Keith, you will be in my prayers, and may Cowley flourish under your leadership. Your Boston Monastery is a very blessed place. Best, Jim
This is an exciting blessing for SSJE and its Ministry! Thanks for sharing this wonderful news.
May God continue to bless this beloved community and its new superior. I am getting up in years for driving back and forth from Cape Cod, but I send love and warmest wishes to you all.
Rev. Jennifer M Phillips
Congratulations Brother Keith!! Many prayers and best thoughts to you as you start on this next chapter!
Prayers for the whole community during this time of transition. Blessings for Br. Keith on his new role in the community.
I am delighted by this wonderful news. Eight or ten years ago, I participated in a retreat at the monastery led by Br. Keith. I was deeply impressed by how quiet (both literally and figuratively) he was, how very still. He said no more than was necessary, all of it genuinely thoughtful, listened attentively and appeared completely free of the need to put on any sort of performance. The impression remains vivid, all these years later, and I am moved by the memory of the few days I spent in the presence of such quietude.
Blessings Brother Keith. And the beat goes on. Thank God.💜
Congratulations, brothers! I was praying for you this morning from Erie, PA where I am staying with the Benedictine sisters. My God bled Br Keith and you all as you begin this new chapter of the Society’s life together.
Dear Brothers, I rejoice with you in Br Keith’s election. I know him to be a wise and a deep and creative thinker. May his time as superior add richness in the growth and ministry of the monastery.
Thank you Br James for all you have done both for the monastery and for those of us outside. You have been a blessing.
With gratitude,
Gwedhen
Blessings to you Br Keith as you assume this role of superior! And many thanks to Br James after his tenure of leadership during a difficult period. May James’ sabbatical be a healing time to rest and renew your spirit. Keith, know that many of us who rely on SSJE for spiritual nourishment will be praying for you during this time of transition. God’s spirit is with you. Blessings upon the community.
Marilyn Bergen
Thanks be to God! I rejoice in Brother Keith’s election as Superior and uphold the whole SSJE community in my prayers during this time of transition.
Congratulations and thank you for your faithful service.
Brother Keith, I met you at a retreat at Emery House. Congratulations on your new role in the community and praying that your burden will be light.
Kate
What wonderful news! Prayers for discernment, stamina, and joy for Brother Keith, and for the entire community. I’m very glad and hopeful for SSJE’s ministry.
Congratulations to all! Remembering Br. Keith and all of you in my daily prayers. Wishing all of you many blessings moving forward with your new superior.
Brother Keith, I am thrilled at this news, and excited to be part of this new era in the fellowship. Congratulations!
I ask God to bless SSJE, and I commit to praying for Brother Keith’s leadership over the next three years. From here in Brazil I send you an affectionate greeting.
I give thanks to our loving and gracious God for the ministry which you all provide. I feel connected to all of you through the daily meditations which I receive, and feel as though I know you.
Brother Keith, I wish you many blessings, God’s deepest peace, and the continued perfect guidance of the Holy Spirit as you prepare for, and enter this new phase of your vocation.
God bless,
Anne Baillargeon, Scarborough Ontario.’
Congratulations and blessings on your entire community in this time of transition.
With deep appreciation and thanksgiving for Brother James’ leadership in the last 8 years and prayers for Brother Keith as he assumes the role as the next Superior. Thank you both for your leadership and abiding faithfulness.
You have our love and gratitude and prayers for continued strength and courage in this next chapter.
The Rev Jon & Beth Strand
Br. Keith, congratulations! I am very happy to hear this. May God’s richest blessings be with you and your brothers in this next chapter of your life together.
By serendipity, I was able to attend today’s Eucharist online, and loved Bro. James’ words of anticipation for the announcement of the new Superior. I am very pleased for you all, and will pray for Bro. Keith in his new position. He sounds well qualified, and I know he will usher in new blessings to the community. And may you all enjoy the “Koester Fest” celebrating Bro. James’ excellent leadership and well-deserved sabbatical rest.
Congratulations to Brother Keith and to the Community! I’m thankful for the daily meditations and grateful for the ministry of the Brothers. Wishing you peace and God’s continuing blessings as you all go thru this transition.
Congratulations Br. Keith! May God guide you in this new chapter of your life and ministry. The world needs SSJE.
Well done!
Congratulations, Brother Keith Nelson, on your upcoming leadership role. My prayers and continuing support are with you and all the Brothers as you continue to lead us in spiritual direction and discernment. May God bless each of you!
Dearest Brother Keith, I rejoice at your election and selection as the next Superior.While you indeed have big “sandles” to fill. Your Brothers I know will walk with you as will those of us who value your ministry to us. Blessings and congratulations.
I am so happy for Brother Keith and the SSJE community as this leadership transition takes place. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Kieth, as you begin this ministry. May God’s grace and love guide you and bless you! I lift up prayers, as well, for James and the rest of the community!
Peter
I am most pleased to support SSJE in my Annual gift & planned gifts beyond. I have every confidence in your capabilities & leadership.
Rev’d. J. B. Webb San Antonio, TX
Dear Br. Keith
Delighted to hear this. I was just sharing one of your ‘Brother, Give us a Word’ reflection recently — wise, warm, inspiring and ringing so true with experience. Thank you. Many blessings on your ministry as Superior, and prayers always for all SSJE Brothers.
You sound like an incredibly well rounded young man.. your feet planted well in the earth and your heart and soul open to all experiences.. I congratulate you on your new post..
May God bless the community and you, Brother Keith, in this new ministry and continue to bless you and your share in Christ’s Holy Priesthood. Our love and prayers for you all,
Father Michael Cooper and the community of St. Nicholas of Myra Parish Church, Encino, California
Dear Brother Keith,
My wife, Kathy, and I give thanks just hearing of your election. Please know of our thoughts and prayers as you begin your new leadership position in the SSJE community.
Skip
Blessings for Brother Keith and his continuing leadership of SSJE… I am truly grateful for the daily meditations which give me hope and comfort 💕
What wonderful news. Peace and all Goodness.
James +
Third Order, Society of St. Francis
Province of the Americas
God bless. I hope to visit the monastery again soon.
Thank you for SSJE ongoing leadership and partnership with the Fellowship and the greater community
Thank you Br James
And I look for to getting to know Br Keith
Blessings all
Elizabeth Cook
Praying for Brother Keith’s ministry. We overlapped in our time at HDS.
Congratulations Brother Keith.I am confident SSJE will be in good hands during your time as Superior.
Blessings,
Philip Cate Huckins
Keene, NH
Prayers for the whole community in this time of transition. And wishes for laughter which washes away the cobwebs of the soul.