On Wednesday, 29 October 2008, the monks of Glenstal Abbey elected Br Mark Patrick Hederman OSB as Abbot for a term of eight years. Abbot Patrick is a native of Co. Limerick and has been a member of the community for forty-five years. Abbot Patrick succeeds Abbot Christopher Dillon OSB, who is retiring after sixteen years in office.
Mark Patrick Hederman was born in Ballingarry, Co. Limerick. A former pupil and headmaster of the school, he has also taught in America and Nigeria. He studied philosophy and theology in France and has written a number of books. He is the monastery librarian.