A close-up of a brick building featuring a bay window with three arched windows. The bricks are patterned with green tiles. Sunlight illuminates the branches of a tree on the right side of the image, casting shadows on the building.

Residential Living

Rooted in Community,
Surrounded by Beauty.

Students in the School of Theology and Seminary have the best of both worlds. They live within a dynamic community of their own peers and participate in a wider campus culture of more than 3000 students at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University with all of their amenities.

A brick building with a cross on the roof, partially covered in green ivy, set against a partly cloudy sky.
A bright chapel interior with wooden beams, arched stained glass windows, rows of chairs, a piano, and an altar beneath a mural depicting religious figures above wooden paneling. Hanging lights illuminate the space.

HOME FOR GRADUATE THEOLOGICAL STUDY

Emmaus Hall

Situated on the peaceful shores of Lake Sagatagan, Emmaus Hall is the heart of the SOT/Sem residential experience. This multi-use facility features:

  • Chapel and Worship Space
  • Library, Classrooms, and Study Lounges
  • Shared Kitchens and Gathering Areas
  • Laundry Facilities
  • Direct Access to Nature Trails and Lakefront

It’s more than a residence—it’s a hub for theological reflection, worship, and meaningful community life.

Housing Options in Emmaus Hall

All rooms are fully furnished and include utilities—making graduate living affordable and convenient.

  • Single Room
    A private, furnished room with shared bathrooms down the hall.
  • Suite
    Includes a private bath with expanded living space and the same furnishings as single rooms.
  • Apartment
    Offers a private bath, kitchenette, dining table, and sitting area—ideal for students seeking more independence.
Two people walk along a brick path next to a red brick building covered partly in ivy, surrounded by trees with green and autumn-colored leaves. Fallen leaves are scattered on the grass and path.
A graduation ceremony inside a large church, showing graduates in caps and gowns seated, faculty on stage, and a speaker addressing the audience from a podium. Flags and religious symbols are visible in the background.

An Embedded Campus Experience

As part of Saint John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict, SOT/Sem students enjoy access to:

  • Two Libraries and Dining Halls
  • Fitness Centers and Athletic Facilities
  • Chapels and Worship Spaces
  • Health and Counseling Services
  • Fine Arts Galleries, Theaters, and Student Activities

Graduate students live in a setting that supports both rigorous academic study and whole-person well-being.

Nature, Reflection, and Recreation

Set within over 3,000 acres of lakes, forests, and prairies—including the Saint John’s Abbey Arboretum—students are immersed in the natural beauty of central Minnesota. This environment encourages contemplation, prayer, and outdoor recreation.

Through the Outdoor Leadership Center, students can borrow gear and explore with activities such as:

  • Hiking and Snowshoeing
  • Biking and Cross-Country Skiing
  • Kayaking and Fishing
  • Camping and Ice Skating

Rooted in the Benedictine values of stability, hospitality, and stewardship, this living environment nurtures both spiritual formation and joyful community life.

Aerial view of people sunbathing on a floating dock in a lake, with others swimming nearby and a few by a distant pier. The water is dark, reflecting the surroundings and the dock casts a shadow.

More Information

Tuition & Fees
Degree Programs
Benedictine tradition