× On April 30, 2021, Claretian Publications presented to the public the persona of the Accidental Monk with the launching of the book of the same title.

Wil Hernandez who was stranded for two and a half months at the Benedictine Abbey of Transfiguration in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, wrote his extraordinary and monastic experiences in his book “Accidental Monk: A Chronicle of Struggle, Faith, and Surrender.”

The book launch was held ONLINE and participants in the Zoom meeting room and other social media platforms had the chance to interact with the author during the Open Forum.

Here’s what readers say about the book:

Fr. Francis Benedict, OSB of Saint Andrew’s Abbey says “Wil invites the reader to share his experience of living within a cloister with these monks who welcomed him ‘as Christ,’ characteristic of Benedictine and of Filipino hospitality. The daily round of monastic prayer and the rhythms of communal living, with their sacred and mundane character, were catalysts to a deep personal homecoming, to all that is beautiful and uplifting, as well as confronting the broken and flawed parts of himself. The warm fraternity of the monks provided the setting for his reflections, inspirations, and revelations as a person who considers himself still ‘under construction.’”

Tim Gener, Ph.D., Chancellor and Professor of Theology at the Asian Theological Seminary notes that the book is “Spiritually engaging and delightful! Wil’s diary provides glimpses of a ‘spirituality on the road’ or a spirituality of contemporary life providentially enriched by encountering Benedictine monasticism. Brimming with authenticity, earthiness, and with drizzles of memorable insights from spiritual writers, you will be drawn to Wil’s ecumenical spiritual journey captured in heartwarming chronicles of his seemingly forced yet providential time at the abbey.”

You may get your copy of “Accidental Monk: A Chronicle of Struggle, Faith, and Surrender” at the Claretian Bookstore at 8 Mayumi St., U.P. Village, Diliman, Quezon City or in our online stores at

Claretian Communications Foundation, Inc., LAZADA and SHOPEE. Call (632) 921-3984 or email ccfi@claretianpublications.com.