New Skete Monasteries News

    By Brother Theophan   (Part 2; Part 1 can be found here ) The Vanishing Self and the Overview Effect             Art can also profoundly shape us spiritually by cultivating a sense of the “vanishing self” or the “overview effect.” Let me explain briefly. In my upcoming book, Dreaming Reality , I explore the different ways we experience selfhood and connect with the world and cosmos. One prominent form is what we might call the default self. The brain naturally shifts into this mode, especially when we lack systematic contemplative practice. The default self perceives itself as an independent, separate, “skin-encapsulated” entity that feels in control and seeks to manage people and circumstances to serve its own happiness. The default self serves as a crucial “interface” your brain uses to help you function as a human being. However, it can easily become hyperactive, leading to self-centeredness, which in turn triggers anxiety, rumination, endless worry, depression, and, at

By Ida Williams Commentary by Sister Cecelia Throughout my years of employment at New Skete, I have encouraged visitors to experience worship service with the monks and nuns.   This invitation is regardless of religious affiliation.   Whether it is dogs, cheesecake, employment, or just curiosity that brings you to New Skete, experiencing the one true purpose of the monastery is worth adding to your “bucket list.” Note that this invitation is not to experience worship as one would experience theater. This is not a show! Joining the monks and nuns for worship is spiritually immersive.   Be prepared to be heartened. Shortly after starting my employment here, I attended a worship service.   If I was going to be marketing communications director, I’d better know all I could.   The service was very different from what I was used to.    To be honest, I thought this is heavy.   Where is the drum solo? Where is the pastor sharing personal testimony and telling his kids, seated in the front