The body of a young New Zealand monk has been discovered off a remote island in Scotland, authorities confirmed. The deceased has been identified as 24-year-old Justin Evans, also known as Brother Ignatius, who disappeared from the Golgotha Monastery on Papa Stronsay in the Orkney Islands on April 11.
Evans, originally from Christchurch, had traveled to the island as a member of the Redemptorist Community, a Catholic congregation focused on missionary work. Before his pilgrimage, he was a player for Marist Albion Rugby Club, which paid tribute to him in a social media post, calling him a 'beloved club member and terrific young man.'
Diocese of Aberdeen Bishop Hugh Gilbert expressed deep sadness over the discovery and said it would not be appropriate to comment further as investigations continue. Police Scotland stated that the death is being treated as unexplained, and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
