The Emmaus Houses of discernment were founded by The Most Reverend Bernard J. Harrington, D.D., Bishop of Winona, on July 1, 2001 in Mankato, MN and July 1, 2003 in Winona, MN. The Houses are a diocesan response to assist college and graduate age students in discerning a vocation to the diocesan priesthood. There has been a growing awareness that there are students attending local colleges, seriously considering the possibility of a priestly vocation, but who are not ready to make a formal commitment or application to a seminary program. The Houses exists to provide a community of prayer, support and discernment. They expect each resident to participate in the normal life of a college lay student. He will be involved in the same academic programs, the same extra-curricular activities and campus life as his peers at either Minnesota State University, Mankato, Winona State University or St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. In addition, he will be discerning the possibility of a vocation to priesthood in his life, as well as striving for a committed and dedicated Christian lifestyle in the Emmaus House community.

The Emmaus House offers a small and intimate gathering of men committed to a common purpose – the discernment of a priestly vocation. The community becomes an important element in discernment. It offers each resident the necessary environment and atmosphere for the development of his unique personality and God given call through daily prayer, the sacramental life of the Church, self-understanding, mutual support and encouragement.