Hosted by Dustin And Lanni K.
THE INVITATION
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. … Just so, your light must shine before others… (Mt. 5:14,16)
In 1974, Paul Roman received an invitation from his friend, Bill Aiken, to “climb a mountain.” At the top, he saw one hundred acres of virgin Adirondack forest, and hung a medal of St. Benedict on a beam of a sagging barn. Upon coming down the mountain, Paul shared the news of his recent discovery with his friends, John Kerwin and Michael Neaton. These two had recently been granted permission to establish a monastic community where they could lead a life of contemplation, hospitality, work, and service. This SACRED MOUNTAINTOP made for an ideal permanent site and the foundation to a community set apart from the world.
“You are not of the world … I chose you out of the world.”
(Mt. 15:19)
Following construction of the house in 1979, Howard Hubbard dedicated the building, grounds and community as The Priory. While the community sought contemplation and the living out of their call as monastics, people began to come for common prayer and times of public worship with the monks. As the friends of the monks grew in numbers, the reputation of the Priory also grew. In time, the focus of the community began to shift to establishing a retreat house for all peoples.
“Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while.”
(Mk.6:31)
Presently, under the leadership of Dustin and Lanni, The Priory hosts and listens to all who come to its doors. They are environmentalists who seek to preserve and nurture the land that surrounds them. We offer overnight retreats, weekend workshops, and full and half-day programs. We also host groups who want a place to hold their own retreats and gatherings, and individuals who are seeking a time of solitude and prayer. The house and grounds are places that cultivate stillness and stability amidst an ever-changing world.