"We welcome all as sister and brother..."- excerpt from the BFS Mission Statement
The Conference Center is part of the Motherhouse complex.
With a seating capacity of 125 and a scenic view in every season, the Conference Center is available for religious, education and business groups looking for a pleasant and serene environment for day or evening retreats, meetings and seminars.
The large room seats 125 at round tables and 150 theatre style. A small Conference Room seats 10 persons comfortably. Several break-out rooms are also available.
Since inception, the Center has accomodated various type groups from a day of prayer that includes a presentation on Mary, Mass, quiet time, and a pilgrimage procession to the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes to business or training meetings for associations, government, and law enforcement.
In addition, the Center hosts many Alvernia University programs, as well as parish, catechetical retreats, and diocesan events. County offices and local businesses find the Center “user friendly.”
Four guest rooms in the Motherhouse make it possible for Individuals to
make private or directed retreats for overnights or a week-long experience
including daily Mass.
Spiritual direction is also available.
Thirty acres of trees, flowers, and peaceful walking paths help to create a sense of peace and inviting guests to outdoor Stations of the Cross, prayer at the Grotto, or a quiet visit to the cemetery where many Bernardine Franciscan Sisters and their American foundress, Mother Veronica Grzedowska are buried.
The Canticle Gift Shop has been a pleasant addition to the Center offering religious articles and inspirational gifts at reasonable prices. It has become a favorite place to spend some time and find a few surprises while at the Center.
