There’s no denying that there’s an air of mystery surrounding Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center in Litchfield. We mentioned to a few people that we were going to “Unlock” the retreat and the reaction was always the same, “Ooh I can’t wait to hear about it…we’ve driven by that sign many times and have always wondered what happens in there!”
That’s what we’re here for folks!
Post sponsored by Wisdom House Retreat
The fact that we have to ring the bell at the “front door” to gain entry helps add to the mystery. However, we’re quickly put at ease when we’re greeted by Chef Margaret Jacobs. When she’s not answering the door and giving warm welcomes, she’s creating a wonderful menu for those spending time at Wisdom House.
We’re introduced to Sister Rosemarie Greco and Executive Director Deborah Kelly and enjoy a fascinating tour of the facility, learning a bit about the purpose, history, and mission.
It’s a mystery no longer…and a place well worth visiting! Here’s what we learned…
Wisdom House offers hospitality for people searching for meaning and purpose in their lives and who value to a connection between spirituality and service to people and the world.
Inviting seekers of wisdom into conversation and contemplation.
Wisdom House Programs
Besides a retreat and conference center, Wisdom House offers diverse programs and workshops exploring the intersections of art, ecology, health, and spirituality. They welcome presenters from a wide variety of faith traditions, cultures, and life experiences. Their commitment to nurturing a strong interfaith community is strong!
Check out the programs at Wisdom House.
They value holistic engagement and invite all who come to be open to transforming their lives and the world they share with one another.
This is a place where you can learn to thrive. Art and spirituality can blossom here.
Come to the country. Let creation and simplicity renew you. Experience the freedom to nurture your soul. Let birdsongs lift your spirit. Be encouraged with other seekers.
History
Wisdom House was founded in 1949 by the Daughters of Wisdom as a training center (novitiate) for women embarking on a life of prayer and service as is the tradition of the Daughters of Wisdom.
Retreat
By 1967, the center began its growth into an interfaith retreat center. This former college and convent for the community of Catholic sisters, the Daughters of Wisdom, continues to provide an environment conducive to reflection and creative expression, now welcoming all those who value seeking and learning in a contemplative environment.
Truly interfaith, Wisdom House honors faith traditions from around the world and those who remain unaffiliated with a specific tradition.
Buildings
The Colonial Brick Building, constructed in 1950 and in 1960 was managed by builder and architects Fucito and Bonvacini.
Several buildings sit on 70 beautiful acres. The Farm House dates to 1770 while the barn, now an open and airy meeting room, was built circa 1925. There’s a carriage house and an in-ground swimming pool. All of these spaces have stunning views of the meadows and forests that are part of the campus.
Over the years, Wisdom House has renovated many of their spaces, providing additional guest accommodations and meeting spaces, an inclusive worship space in the chapel, as well as an art gallery.
Additionally, they recently expanded their outdoor spaces of contemplation and renewal, such as the labyrinth, Peace Garden, and Medieval Mary Garden. Their care of creation values are expressed throughout the campus, including solar panels that help offset their power consumption.
Life evolves; all is impermanent; the sacred and the spirit are eternal.
Go!
Give them a follow on Facebook and stop by next time you’re in the area!
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center
229 East Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT 06759
Pics: Lora / Words: Bev
This looks very interesting.
Do you have a schedule of your programs and retreats?
Thank you.
Rosemay
Hi Rosemary,
You can access all of our programs on our website at http://www.wisdomhouse.org. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate in contacting us at (860) 567-3163.
I have been privileged to spend time at wisdom House over the course of many years. Looking forward to a weekend in June of this year to renew my spirit and rejoice with friends.
I always called Wisdom House and its surroundings a piece of heaven in Western Connecticut!!