Welcome to SSJE
We are a community of men giving our whole selves over to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Rooted in the ancient monastic traditions of prayer and community life, and critically engaged with contemporary culture, we seek to know and share an authentic experience of God’s love and mercy. We live a common life shaped by worship, prayer, and our Rule of Life.
We invite you to explore these pages to learn more about how we live and pray, the tradition that grounds us, and the call that draws us onward day by day.
Worship Schedule | Rule of Life | Meeting Jesus | Catch the Life
We were made for “Yes.” Jesus said that he came so that we might have life—and have it abundantly. We were made for senseless acts of beauty—and fun! Senseless acts of beauty—and fun—are not necessary for our physical survival. But they are essential to our humanity.
-Br. Mark Brown, SSJE
Monastery Chapel
Silence. Flickering candlelight. Sunlight streaming through stained glass. Soak in the beauty of our sanctuary, open morning to night. Pray, ponder, or participate in the Brothers’ daily office. Service Schedule >
Guesthouse
Sleep in. Pray. Savor wholesome food. Nap. Read. How might a stay in our Monastery Guesthouse recharge you and open you to God’s call? Workshops & Retreats >
Emery House
Birdsong. Meadow grasses waving in the breeze. Stars overhead. At our rural retreat house, we invite you to pray as you hike, light a fire, weed the garden, and bask in the beauty of Creation. Retreat information>
Recent Sermons from the Chapel
Bread of Life – Br. Luke Ditewig
“Jesus is more than manna in the wilderness, and more than a meal for 5,000 from a few loaves and fish. Jesus offers himself as sustaining nourishment to be received and savored daily.”
Br. Luke Ditewig encourages us to trust God’s provision beyond what we can imagine, as we feed on the bread of life.
For God Alone – Br. David Vryhof
“Many of us are overwhelmed and inundated with too much of everything: too many possessions, too much food, too much stimulation, too many activities, too much work, too much information, too many words, too many choices.”
Br. David Vryhof honors the founders of the Cistercian order, looking to Cistercian spirituality for a proof that we need surprisingly little to be content, fulfilled and free.
The Risen Jesus – Br. Jonathan Maury
“The Risen Jesus participates in ordinary daily activities, but does not exhibit ordinary human needs. A transformation beyond dualisms of material and spiritual, of time and eternity, has taken place – and is shown to have been God’s intention and desire for humanity from the very beginning.”
Studying the Resurrection narratives, Br. Jonathan Maury invites us to live resurrection now for the sake of all who are oppressed by sin and death.
Do Not Be Afraid – Br. Lucas Hall
“We have reason to fear the love of God, in its confusing, shattering, beckoning, illuminating totality.”
Br. Lucas Hall looks at the fear-filled responses Jesus elicits in the Gospels, and in our own hearts, as we enter into the love of God.
Coming to Faith – Br. David Vryhof
“If you are not there yet, or if you are not there just now, know that Jesus holds you even in your doubt and confusion, and that he will continue to hold you until you come to faith.”
Br David Vryhof encourages all who struggle on the path to faith to look to Thomas, who reminds us that there is no shame in questioning or in doubting.