Guided by the Franciscan traditions of joy, hospitality, compassion, peace and simplicity, we offer contemporary retreats and programs in response to the changing needs of God’s people.
The Center also welcomes groups who want to facilitate their own meetings, retreats or workshops. Whether you are planning a one-day workshop or a week-long conference, we will help you make your gathering a success. to contact the Franciscan Spirit and Life Center, please call (412) 881-9207 or e-mail [email protected].
Facilities
The Center is located on the grounds of the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God and is housed in St. Clare Hall. There is a variety of meeting rooms and most can be equipped with audio-visual equipment.
Meals can be prepared by our staff or you may have your meals catered. By special arrangement, you can also choose to prepare your own meals in our on-site kitchen.
Twenty-three bedrooms are located within the building proper and are furnished with bed linens and towels. These single and double rooms can accommodate up to 29 persons. Each room has a sink and common bathrooms are found at each end of the corridors. All supplies necessary for a comfortable stay are provided on each floor. For Facilities Rental Information, Options and Costs, CLICK HERE
The Center’s facilities, its warm hospitality and the tranquility of the surroundings make it an ideal site for:
- Adult Education Programs
- In-Service Days
- Days and Evenings of Recollection
- Conferences
- Seminars
- Retreats
- Meetings
Typical uses include:
- Confirmation Retreats
- Church and Parish Groups
- Staff Retreats
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Self-Help Groups
- Youth Day Retreats
For a list of groups currently using our center's facilities, CLICK HERE
Retreats
The Franciscan Spirit and Life Center offers a variety of retreat options. Retreat space is available for individuals or groups for a day, several days, a week or weekend.
What is a Retreat?
A spiritual/religious retreat is an invitation to “come apart and rest awhile.” A retreat is a time of pushing the “pause” button of life in order to regroup and renew so that we may continue on in strength and confidence. It provides an opportunity to break away from the daily routine and refocus on God’s presence in one’s life. Various church groups and other organizations, as well individuals, are finding that one of the most effective ways of centering and re-focusing is the retreat experience.
The type of retreat you choose will depend on the time you have and the amount of structure you want.
Conference Retreats: The retreat participant follows a planned schedule of conferences, liturgy, private prayer and rest.
Guided Retreats: These retreats offer one daily conference based on a unique theme. Silence and journaling form a major portion of each day.
Directed Retreats: In an atmosphere of silence and solitude, the participant meets daily with the director who facilitates the process of listening to God. Scripture passages are used for reflection, meditation and contemplation.
Private Retreats: Create your own retreat experience. A day, a weekend or a week of quiet reflection and prayer may be arranged with our office.
Spiritual Direction, Counseling Services and Massage Therapy are available by appointment.
| Sister | Services | Contact |
| Sister Joanne Brazinski, OSF | Spiritual Direction | (412) - 885-7409 |
| Sister J. Lora Dambroski, OSF | Spiritual Direction | (412) 885-7408 |
| Sister Carolyn Bodenschatz, CSJ | Spiritual Direction | (412) 819-0135 |
| Sister Nancy Langhart, OSF | Counseling (Individual/Couples), Spiritual Direction | (412) 882-9911 |
| Sister Althea Anne Spencer, OSF | Spiritual Direction, Massage | (412) 885-7406/ (412) 885-7233 |
Planned Programs & Workshops
The Franciscan Spirit and Life Center provides opportunities for spiritual enrichment for persons in all walks of life through a variety of programs and workshops throughout the year.
- Typical Center Programs include:
- Workshops, Retreats and Days of Reflection
- Franciscan Spirituality
- Holistic Development
- Evangelization, Reconciliation and Peace
For a list of current programs, click here
Programs on the Road
The Franciscan Spirit & Life Center is currently offering our “Programs on the Road” series of programs wherein our staff and speakers affiliated with the Center are available to present programs at your site. You may choose from a variety of topics including: Confirmation, RCIA and Catechist Retreats, Tea with the Saints, Day for Caregivers, and Spiritual Hunger and Addiction. You may also have a program designed specifically for your group. Call the Center @ (412) 881-9207 for details.
Contact Information
The Franciscan Spirit & Life Center
3605 McRoberts Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
(412) 881-9207
For Facilities Rental Information, Options and Costs, CLICK HERE