Sometimes the word "retreat" brings images clouded in mystery.  "I could never make a retreat - it's only for holy people", might be the response.  But the truth is that anyone and everyone who desires a deeper relationship with God is called to retreat - to "step aside", to "take time away" and allow God to speak to their heart.  During a retreat one becomes more aware of God's beauty and grace all around them.  At a retreat center every need is provided for - from nourishing food to a comfortable bedroom and the silence one needs for "listening" to God's words.  A person may make a private retreat or opt to meet with a spiritual guide to help with prayer.  Another option is a retreat that would offer a presenter who might offer conferences on some aspect of spitituality.  In a Catholic retreat house one would often have the opportunity for Mass and Reconciliation, certainly personal prayer and reflection.  Those who make a retreat step aside from a busy, sometimes chaotic world into peaceful and serene "holy ground" in a "sacred space."  God does indeed invite us to "come apart for a while and rest."  Are we ready to listen and respond to the invitation?  It is always worthwhile. Come and see! 

STELLA MARIS RETREAT AND RENEWAL CENTER

130 E. Genesee Street
Skaneateles, NY  13152
(315) 685-6836
Fax: (315) 685-7008

Located on beautiful Skaneateles Lake in upstate New York, the mansion that is now Stella Maris Retreat and Renewal Center was built for Frederick Roosevelt in 1879.  Later it was acquired by Bernice Smith from the estate of her brother, the late Burns Lyman Smith of Smith Corona Typewriter Company.  The Sisters of St. Francis purchased the property in 1952 and converted it to a retreat center.

Stella Maris, Latin for "Star of the Sea", a title of Mary, is an appropriate name for a spiritual center located on a beautiful lake near the resort town of Skaneateles and dedicated to the mission of continuing "in the spirit of Francis of Assisi, to extend the gracious hospitality of Jesus to all who desire spiritual growth, renewal and peace."

Open all year round, Stella Maris can accommodate up to 55 overnight guests and 100 day guests.  Various programs are provided including retreats, workshops, seminars, conferences, days of reflection, etc.  The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities have owned and operated this property for over fifty years.  A dedicated staff and volunteers maintain the house and grounds and remain focused on the mission of fostering the values of hospitality, unconditional love and acceptance in their ministry.

Click on this link to view our website: http://www.stellamarisretreat.org