New Skete
New Skete is a dual monastic community in Cambridge, New York, comprising the Monks of New Skete (founded 1966) and the Nuns of New Skete (founded 1969). These communities are notable for their reforms to Orthodox liturgy to make it more comprehensible and their openness to ecumenical dialogue. The monks are widely recognized for their German Shepherd breeding and dog training expertise, while the nuns are known for their gourmet cheesecakes.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1966 (Monks) and 1969 (Nuns).
- ›Known for liturgical reforms in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
- ›Monks are prominent German Shepherd breeders and dog trainers.
- ›Nuns are recognized for baking gourmet cheesecakes.
- ›Features iconographic portraits of both Orthodox saints and prominent non-Orthodox figures.
- ›Associated with a lay fellowship called Companions.
- Holy Wisdom Temple With Iconographic Portraits
- German Shepherd Breeding Program
- Dog Training Programs
- Gourmet Cheesecake Production
- Companions Fellowship
Pope John Xxiii, Archbishop Michael Ramsey, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Francis of Assisi
About New Skete
New Skete represents a unique dual monastic community situated in Cambridge, New York, comprising two distinct entities: the Monks of New Skete, established in 1966, and the Nuns of New Skete, founded in 1969. Both communities operate under the omophorion of the Metropolitan of the Orthodox Church in America and are known for their innovative approaches to Orthodox monasticism and spiritual life.
Liturgical Reforms and Ecumenism
A defining characteristic of New Skete is its institution of wide-ranging reforms to the divine office and eucharistic liturgies of the Eastern Orthodox Church. These reforms are aimed at making the services more comprehensible to contemporary worshippers. The communities are also notably open to ecumenical contacts with other Christian groups. This inclusive spirit is visually represented in the nave of their Holy Wisdom Temple, which features iconographic portraits not only of Orthodox saints but also of prominent non-Orthodox figures such as Pope John XXIII, Archbishop Michael Ramsey, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. They also celebrate the feast day of the Roman Catholic saint Francis of Assisi.
Outreach and Recognition
The Monks of New Skete have gained significant recognition for their work with dogs. They are renowned for their breeding of German Shepherds and their expertise in training all breeds in basic obedience. Their contributions to this field are documented in several dog-training manuals, including "The Art of Raising a Puppy" and "How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend: The Classic Training Manual for Dog Owners." The monks' dog training program was even the subject of the television show "Divine Canine," which premiered on Animal Planet in 2007.
Complementing the monks' work, the Nuns of New Skete are best known for their baking of gourmet cheesecakes. These high-quality cheesecakes are available for purchase through their website and gift shop, providing a sustainable source of support for the community.
Companionship and Modern Monasticism
New Skete also fosters a fellowship of lay people known as Companions. These individuals seek formal connection with the monastic communities to deepen their spiritual lives, integrating monastic values into their daily activities and supporting New Skete's mission. This program serves those who wish to incorporate prayer and spirituality into their everyday lives and enhance their Christian commitment.
Despite their innovative practices, New Skete has faced criticism from Orthodox conservatives and traditionalists. However, the monks and nuns firmly defend their renewal of liturgy and monastic life, viewing it as essential for Orthodox monasticism to remain vibrant and relevant in the modern world rather than becoming merely a historical preservation.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New Skete?
New Skete is the collective name for two distinct Orthodox Christian monastic communities located in Cambridge, New York: the Monks of New Skete and the Nuns of New Skete. They are known for their unique approach to monastic life and their outreach through dog training and cheesecake baking.
What are the Monks of New Skete known for?
The Monks of New Skete are widely recognized for their expertise in breeding German Shepherds and training dogs of all breeds in basic obedience. They have authored several popular dog-training manuals, including "The Art of Raising a Puppy" and "How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend."
What are the Nuns of New Skete known for?
The Nuns of New Skete are primarily known for their production of gourmet cheesecakes. These cheesecakes are sold online and in their on-site gift shop, providing a means of support for the community.
What makes New Skete unique within Orthodox Christianity?
New Skete is distinguished by its implementation of significant reforms to the divine office and eucharistic liturgies of the Eastern Orthodox Church, aiming to enhance the comprehensibility of services. They also foster ecumenical contacts and include portraits of non-Orthodox figures in their Holy Wisdom Temple.
Who are the Companions of New Skete?
The Companions are a fellowship of lay people formally connected with New Skete. They seek to deepen their spiritual lives by integrating monastic values and the Gospel call into their lay settings, while also supporting the monastery's mission.
Has New Skete been featured in media?
Yes, the dog training program of the Monks of New Skete was featured in the television show "Divine Canine," which premiered on Animal Planet in April 2007.
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