On the Road at Emmaus House
New Skete Guesthouse Improvements Under Way
by Brother Gregory
by Brother Gregory
One year ago, in an effort to continue the tradition of hospitality already well established by the Companions of New Skete, the Monks determined that they would continue to use Emmaus House to welcome visitors.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive from those seeking to renew their relationship with God and neighbor, and to spend some quiet time in reflection. Some visitors came with sadness, some with joy, some as part of a planned group retreat or seminar or individual spiritual retreat, and some to catch up on their relationship with the monks and nuns. We even had a professional photographer use the house for her “Seeing with New Eyes” photography retreat. Her attendees enjoyed the experience so much that she has booked two more retreats here in 2016. All who have stayed at Emmaus House left as friends of New Skete.
It is apparent that New Skete’s Emmaus House has a future. It fulfills our monastic ministry of hospitality, and it provides visitors with respite. But we know that to ensure that future we must make repairs and improvements to the structure and facilities.
Over the past year, Michael Sellingham and Joshua Elliott (our maintenance department) have been working hard to chip away at a long to-do list. They have trimmed some overgrown shrubbery, applied fresh paint and refinished wood trim in the common areas, and expanded the parking area. The first week of this month saw the installation of new carpeting in the great room and hallway to replace the original carpet, which was over thirty years old and was worn and stained. The new carpet, a neutral color and pattern, includes a pad under it (the old one was directly on the concrete slab floor), making the floors warm and toasty on these cold winter days. Friends of the monastery have donated some furniture, appliances, and other items for a homey touch.
It is apparent that New Skete’s Emmaus House has a future. It fulfills our monastic ministry of hospitality, and it provides visitors with respite. But we know that to ensure that future we must make repairs and improvements to the structure and facilities.
Over the past year, Michael Sellingham and Joshua Elliott (our maintenance department) have been working hard to chip away at a long to-do list. They have trimmed some overgrown shrubbery, applied fresh paint and refinished wood trim in the common areas, and expanded the parking area. The first week of this month saw the installation of new carpeting in the great room and hallway to replace the original carpet, which was over thirty years old and was worn and stained. The new carpet, a neutral color and pattern, includes a pad under it (the old one was directly on the concrete slab floor), making the floors warm and toasty on these cold winter days. Friends of the monastery have donated some furniture, appliances, and other items for a homey touch.
Looking ahead, we hope to replace some of the sliding doors, the carpets in the individual bedrooms and parlors, and curtains. We also plan to make an upgrade to the current heating system.
Emmaus House was built in 1983 by the Companions of New Skete, the married monastic community. Recognizing the need for couples and individuals to make time to deepen the spiritual aspect of their lives, they opened their doors to share the daily rhythm of monastic life. They lived here until a year ago, when Brother Stephen and Sister Melanie moved to Albany to be near medical resources and family. They made Emmaus House holy with their prayers and lives, and we are pleased to share their sanctuary.
Emmaus House was built in 1983 by the Companions of New Skete, the married monastic community. Recognizing the need for couples and individuals to make time to deepen the spiritual aspect of their lives, they opened their doors to share the daily rhythm of monastic life. They lived here until a year ago, when Brother Stephen and Sister Melanie moved to Albany to be near medical resources and family. They made Emmaus House holy with their prayers and lives, and we are pleased to share their sanctuary.
The new Guest House is a terrific place for a personal retreat, I have been able to visit twice as the renovations progressed. The accommodations are very comfortable, the library is terrific, and the public spaces are very warm and comfortable.
ReplyDelete