Society of St. John the Evangelist

From the hallowed grounds of Harvard Square, a beacon of faith and contemplation arises. The Society of St. John the Evangelist, often abbreviated as SSJE, stands as a testament to a rich history intertwined with the Anglican Communion. The Society of St. John the Evangelist first took root in 1866, not here in Cambridge, but across the Atlantic in Cowley, Oxford, England. Founded by Richard Meux Benson, it marked the resurgence of monastic tradition within the Anglican Church after the Reformation. The society’s arrival in Boston in 1870 marked a pivotal moment in its expansion. Today, the Society of St. John the Evangelist, rooted here near Harvard Square, carries forward its mission. The North American Congregation calls this meticulously designed monastery, crafted by Ralph Adams Cram, their home. The brothers of the Society of St. John the Evangelist dedicate their lives to a Rule of Life, embracing vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience. Their commitment to spiritual growth extends beyond the monastery walls, touching the lives of students, prisoners, the homeless, and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The Society of St. John the Evangelist’s influence has also reached the Holy Land, where they serve as chaplains for pilgrimages to St. George’s College in Jerusalem. The brothers have also embarked on missions to Africa, carrying their message of faith and service across continents. Their Cambridge monastery, nestled near the vibrant energy of Harvard Square, offers a sanctuary for contemplation and spiritual renewal. Within its walls, visitors can experience the profound peace of the chapel and find solace in the guesthouse, a memorial to Isabella Stewart Gardner. The Society of St. John the Evangelist has also established a rural retreat center, Emery House, in West Newbury, Massachusetts. There, amidst tranquil meadows and secluded hermitages, guests can embark on a journey of introspection.