Beneath the many concerns that occupy our lives, beneath the anxious cares and daily demands that lay claim to our identity, it can happen that we discern a deeper pull,
one devoted to searching for something more essential, the mystery the Christian
tradition calls “God”.
Should we follow the inner thread of this attraction, we might notice its source
seems to come from beyond ourselves. In resting with it, we may sense our
own desire swell, making us feel alive and connected to the mystery in a new
way. Such an experience might lead us to wonder how God might be drawing
us, inviting us to a more explicit following of our heart’s desire. This type of
spiritual experience may lead to an attraction to explore a monastic
contemplative life.
Monasteries have always been places where men and women could let
their deepest desires be nourished by a shared vision of mutual love and
support. Monastic life has been an avenue of transformation, where all of
the elements of life combine to give birth to a new self, made in the image
of Christ. Such transformation is a life-long process characterized by faith,
discipline and perseverance, in union with one’s brothers and sisters. It
calls out what is best in human nature, and leads us to deep peace and
inner joy, to “life more abundant” (John 10).
New Skete embodies a unique monastic vision that integrates three separate
communities of monks, nuns and married couples into one monastic family. Since
our community is Eastern Orthodox, we encourage seekers who are attracted
to the spiritual depths of the Christian East, and who are interested in a fresh
expression of monastic living that remains rooted in tradition.
Our communities welcome vocational inquiries from men, women and married
couples who feel a gentle yet sustained pull towards contemplative living and
who wonder whether they are called to monastic life.
The following are a set of general guidelines for becoming a member of New Skete:
Perhaps the single most important characteristic for an individual considering monastic life is the desire and willingness
to seek God by embracing a life of ongoing change which requires a spirit of flexibility and openness.
In general, candidates for our life should be in good health, and should have finished whatever formal education they
might desire before entering the monastery. Candidates should enjoy people and be willing to work closely with a tightly-knit
community of brothers and sisters. Our life is radically communal; thus a person attracted to living alone will find our life a challenge.
If you fit these guidelines and are interested in monastic life at New Skete, please continue to “Initial Steps.”
Initial Steps Contact Form
