“The Portiuncula Center for Prayer nestled in St. Francis Woods and rooted in the Franciscan tradition, is a sacred space of welcome for those seeking peace of mind, body, and spirit.” Mission Statement
On the day when the weight deadens on your shoulders and you stumble,
may the clay dance to balance you.
And when your eyes freeze behindthe grey window
and the ghost of loss gets into you,
may a flock of colours,
indigo, red, green and azure blue,
come to awaken in you a meadow of delight.
When the canvas frays in the currach of thought and a stain of ocean
blackens beneath you,
may there come across the waters a path of yellow moonlight
to bring you safely home.
May the nourishment of the earth be yours,
may the clarity of light be yours,
may the fluency of the ocean be yours,
may the protection of the ancestors be yours.
And so may a slow wind work these words of love around you,
an invisible cloak to mind your life.
John O’Donohue – Blessing
The Port has been a retreat center for nearly 30 years. It is a ministry of the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart. They purchased the 50 acres on which the retreat center is located over 60 years ago. The property is now called St. Francis Woods and is home to the Motherhouse as well as The Poverello Holistic Center and 5 hermitages. Please visit http://www.fssh.net/
for more information about The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart.
The Portiuncula Center for Prayer is named for the chapel St. Francis rebuilt near Assisi, Italy. The name means “little portion”. We are honored to offer our spiritual services to you. We are committed to offering hospitality, caring, and warmth during your time with us, whether it be a few hours or several days. Please know all are welcome to follow their spiritual path at ‘The Port”.
Our professional team is here to help you with any questions or concerns.