The Companions of New Skete are a married monastic community founded in
1983. A year later, we were brought under the omophorion (the distinguishing
vestment of a bishop and the symbol of his spiritual and ecclesiastical authority)
of His Beatitude, Metropolitan Theodosius. The monastery of the Companions
is named Emmaus House in honor of the appearance of Jesus Christ to two of his disciples on their way to Emmaus.
The members of this house live monastic life in common, in fellowship with the
Monks and Nuns of New Skete, according to the evangelical promises of poverty,
chastity and obedience.
Monastic life is a life of prayer, contemplation, liturgical worship and work, most
often lived in community. When we are asked, “What is essential to monastic life?”
Our response is, “A consuming love for God, above all else.” Our human condition
impels us to transcend ourselves, to seek the creator. This is the lifelong quest of
every human soul. If one is married, one’s spouse is not in competition with this
love, but strengthens it through mutual love for each other in the sacrament of marriage.
We strive to grow in faith and wisdom by willingly exploring, evaluating and
challenging all areas of our lives in loving, dynamic inter-relationships. We offer
ourselves to God as witnesses of married monasticism in contemporary America.
We share our mission with all who partake of our hospitality. We have developed Sanctuary Gardens and a Woodland
Walk, with many meditation areas and icons to enhance the reflective experience of our guests.
Recognizing the need for married couples and individuals to make time to deepen the spiritual aspect of their lives, our
non-directed retreats are intended to immerse our guests in the daily rhythm of our monastic life. Our desire is two-fold: to
provide a place of beauty, solitude and silence which will encourage guests to seek quiet reflection and prayer, and to
provide the opportunity for guests to interact with us, as well as members of the monks’ and nuns’ communities, both in
informal settings and in our worship. We hope that our guests gain a better understanding of monastic life by participating
in it, and will be able to incorporate spiritual practices into their daily activities with a strengthened heart and deeper
commitment to Christ.
EMMAUS HOUSE
On the way to Emmaus,
Jesus showed his friends the meaning of the Scriptures.
Now, as our divine companion on the road of life, O Christ,
You explain to us the word of God and share your mysteries with us.
O Christ our God, you revealed yourself to your friends in the breaking of bread.
Now as we break bread together in your name day after day,
Open our eyes as well, that by the light of faith,
We may behold you in all your works.
Stay with us. Lord Jesus, for it is already evening,
And the day will soon be over.
Lest we fall asleep in sin, pour forth your mercies into our hearts.
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