A person stands in front of a brightly lit display of illuminated manuscripts in a dimly lit exhibit hall. The surrounding showcases contain open books with ornate illustrations, creating a dramatic contrast with the red backdrop.
Two people walk toward a small, wooden footbridge in a forest. The path is surrounded by vibrant autumn trees with golden leaves. The scene suggests a peaceful, scenic walk in the fall.
A serene lake reflects the silhouette of a building with a distinctive triangular structure at sunset. The sky transitions from soft peach to pastel blue, with trees lining the horizon.
Two people stand inside a building with stained glass windows. They are having a conversation while walking along a brick floor. The architecture features geometric patterns and a large wall on the right.
School of theology students engaging in evening prayer.

SOT/Sem Mission

“Therefore we intend to establish a school for the Lord’s service.”

(Rule of Benedict Prologue, 45)

Rooted in the Catholic and Benedictine traditions of study, prayer, and communal life, Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary forms visionary leaders to serve the church and the world.

Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary is a place to open the Word of God, see Christ in others, and take on new experiences and challenges.

Located on 3,000+ acres of prairies, lakes, and forests, our campus offers residential students a unique opportunity to discern their vocation in a contemplative environment.

Our graduates go out into the world ready to serve the people of God through pastoral ministry, service, education, and leadership.

In the News

Congratulations Bishop Matthew Zhen Xuebin 

We are thrilled to celebrate Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary alumnus Bishop Matthew Zhen Xuebin on…

SOT/Sem celebrates Micah Kiel’s new book

Congratulations to faculty member, Micah Kiel, Ph.D., for the publication of his new book Be Transformed: A Biblical…

VA Sec. McDonough Spotlights SOT/Sem graduate

In an Oct 25th message, the Honorable Denis McDonough paid tribute to chaplains who serve the Department of…

Saint John's student sitting in the chapel reading a passage from a book.

Discover More

Master’s Degrees

Earn a degree in theology at a full-time or part-time pace through in-person, hybrid, or fully online learning.

Learn more about our 6 graduate degrees, including the Master of Arts in Theology, Master of Theological Studies, and Master of Divinity.


Available Certificates

Certificate in Benedictine Spirituality, Certificate in Spiritual Direction, Certificate in Ministry, Sabbatical Program.

A Hidden Gem

Our faculty, humble as they are, are made of some of the most published and well-regarded leaders — some of our faculty consults directly with the Vatican, for example. You learn with them directly, never from student teachers. Our hands-on learning contextualizes the world, offering an exceptional way to serve God and the communities you’ll encounter throughout your life. We want you to deeply understand your sense of self as you participate in this experience — you are, after all, created uniquely yourself in God’s eyes. It’s part of why we have become one of the most respected graduate programs in theology.

Monastic figures in the Abbey Church.
Monastic resident holding a religious text.
Sister of the order of saint Benedict reading a religious passage.