Br. Damian Whalen, O.S.B.

Brother Damian professed vows as a monk of St. Gregory’s Abbey on August 20, 1976. He was born in Yreka, California, and spent much of his childhood in Phoenix, Arizona, and Tucscon, where he graduated from the diocesan high school seminary.

Br. Damian completed a bachelor's degree at St. Vincent's College, Latrobe, PA, and a master's of music degree in choral conducting at the University of Oklahoma. In addition to this, he pursued advanced studies in church music at Northwestern University in Chicago. An accomplished organist, Br. Damian received training in organ performance and accompaniment at St. Vincent College, Northwestern University and Oklahoma Baptist University. In 2010 he completed a Doctorate in Business with Capella University, with an emphasis in organizational change.

For many years, Br Damian served full time in St. Gregory’s College and University, both on the faculty and as a member of the administrative staff. He directed the University Chorale, overseeing the presentation of concerts of sacred music. He also assisted in the production and performance of musicals each year, such as “My Fair Lady,” “Working,” “Into the Woods,” “Guys and Dolls,” and many others. He also taught courses in Sacred Scripture and Business in both the College of Arts and Sciences and the College for Working Adults. He served for a time as Dean of the College for Working Adults. Br. Damian served with distinction in the difficult role as final Administrator for St. Gregory’s University, overseeing the shutting down of its operations and liquidation of its assets.

Br. Damian currently serves in a number of roles in the monastic community, including as music director and organist.  He devotes much of his time to completing the revision of the prayer books that the monastic community and its guests use in the celebration of the “Work of God” or the “Liturgy of the Hours” at St. Gregory’s Abbey. He uses his creative skills as a weaver and in crafting various projects in the Abbey woodshop. He enjoys making handcrafts, birdwatching and cooking.