Religious orders in the United States have traditionally helped to meet the needs of people in ways such as providing education, homes for children and schools. Orders that exist today often sell things such as food and handcrafted items to help support their missions. Giving a gift from a religious order can be something to consider, especially for those who enjoy one-of-a-kind handmade things.
The Nuns of New Skete
Purchasing an item from New Skete Kitchens is likely to be a hit with any dessert lover. New Skete Kitchens is run by nuns of the Orthodox Church in America in Cambridge, New York. Products can be ordered online or purchased directly from their store, which is open Tuesday through Saturday. The nuns are known for their decadent cheesecakes in flavors such as amaretto and cream, eggnog, Irish cream, kahlua and many more. New Skete Kitchens also makes fruitcake, a great traditional Christmas gift. Also for sale are handmade dog beds and icon cards featuring paintings of religious figures.
The Nuns of New Skete
343 Ash Grove Rd
Cambridge, NY 12816
(518) 677-3810
newskete.com/products.htm
Abbey of the Genesee
The Abbey of the Genesee is a community of 33 monks, whose main source of income is selling the bread and other foodstuffs they make. The monks are part of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance and are more commonly known as Trappists. The bread they sell comes in a variety of types including white, wheat, maple-cinnamon and 20-grain. Fruitcake, whiskey cake, brownies, creamed honey and preserves are some of the other items sold in the Abbey's online store. Also available are hand-made rosaries and spreaders. If you're in the area, consider a visit to their store, open Monday through Saturday. Consider purchasing a variety of products from the monks to create a gift basket.
Abbey of the Genesee
3258 River Rd
Piffard, NY, 14533
(877) 264-6785
MonksBread.com
Zen Mountain Monastery
Zen Mountain Monastery, affiliated with the Mountains and Rivers Order of Buddhism offers a variety of unique items for sale. The monastery sells a line of signature incense, meditation supplies, CDs, DVDs, artwork and clothing. Gift ideas include an incense starter kit, Rakusu handmade bags and mediation cushions designed by monastics at the monastery.
Dharma Communications
P.O. Box 156
Mt. Tremper, NY 12457
(845) 688-7993
dharma.net/monstore/
Tags: Abbey Genesee, Skete Kitchens, Mountain Monastery, Nuns Skete, their store