Special Features of the Desert House of Prayer

Peace and Justice Awareness
One evening a week, issues relating to peace and justice throughout the world are presented and discussed. To date, we have faced and discussed the marginalization of people within the Church and society. We seek to be sensitized to the poor and disenfranchised all over the world. Lectures, videos and guest presenters working in the field of social justice broaden our awareness of and awaken our compassion to the needs of global community.

Ecumenism
Vatican II called Catholics to think positively about those religions other than our own. At Desert House of Prayer, we are likely at any one time to have guests besides Catholics: Protestants, Jews, Orthodox, as well as those of the various Eastern mystical religions. Coming to know these people and their inherent goodness, and being together with them in prayer is our most natural way at Desert House of being ecumenical.

Ecology
Living in harmony with all creation is brought to one's awareness in the fragile desert landscape, filled as it is with a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, insects and plants. Because those who come here engage in prayer, they often sharpen their awareness of God's presence in nature. Consequently, the whole world of nature becomes very dear to them and they are ready to take seriously what they must do to keep from destroying it. Paths and hiking trails, as well as the clear desert night skies, compel awe of God.

Music
An important component of the Desert House experience, music engages the emotions and heightens the appreciation of beauty in all its expressions.

"Music leads to the threshold of repentance, of unbearable realization of our own vanity and frailty and of the terrible relevance of God."--Rabbi Heschel

Singing at liturgy celebrates and deepens the unity of the assembled believers in praise. A carefully selected collection of classical recordings enhances the contemplative dimension during silent meals.

Art
Artists feel welcome here and have contributed to the collection of paintings, sculptures, icons, mosaics, and photographs on display throughout the property. In the words of the Vatican Council II,

"The fine arts are rightly classed among the noblest activities of human genius...of their nature, the arts are directed toward expressing in some way the infinite beauty of God."

Hermit Day
Each Friday is observed as "Hermit Day." In complete silence and modified fasting, we commemorate the passion and death of Christ and do so in solidarity with workers for justice and peace and with victims of injustice.