Marie Joseph Spiritual Center
Biddeford, Maine
Biddeford, Maine
“A Sacred Space”
for persons seeking to encounter God
in solitude,
in stillness,
in the beauty of nature,
in the healing rhythm of the ocean and
in the presence of a praying Community.
Nestled along Maine’s southern coast, Marie Joseph Spiritual Center, owned and operated by the Congregation of the Presentation of Mary, offers a spiritual haven for many. Refreshment for spirit, mind and body is available for persons seeking a sacred space, silence, healing and a deeper relationship with their God. The Center’s sustaining inspiration and zeal find their roots in that of the Congregation’s foundress, Blessed Marie Rivier, whose desire was “to make Jesus Christ known, loved and to light the fire of God’s love everywhere.”
The Center welcomes lay and religious women and men of all faith traditions who value time for reflection in the peaceful presence of a praying community. Guests are welcomed at daily Eucharist and Morning and Evening Prayer. Once a week there is adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. Two dining rooms afford the choice of a silent meal or one where conversation is shared. In addition to welcoming retreatants, the Center’s staff designs and hosts programs fostering themes on spiritual growth, healing and support.
The Congregation of the Presentation of Mary has offered a local presence since 1948 when a young women’s boarding school flourished on this seaside site. Transformed into a spiritual center, its formal dedication took place in 1979. The building dates back to the late 1800’s, when the Ocean View Hotel was established in Biddeford Pool. While no longer a vacation resort, Marie Joseph Spiritual Center continues a tradition of offering hospitality in the context of spiritual nurturance.
Types Of Retreats Offered
Private Retreats
Private Retreats welcome individuals for personal reflection and prayer.
Directed Retreats
Directed Retreats include daily sessions with a spiritual director in order to share one’s prayer experiences and to discern the Spirit’s movement in their lives.
Individuals may come for private or directed retreats anytime that space allows. Advance reservations are required.
Days of Reflection
Days of Reflection allow individuals to come for a day of quiet prayer and reflection, use of the grounds, common space, and chapel.
Guided Retreats
Guided Retreats are sponsored programs for groups of individuals and are led by a facilitator. They focus on a particular theme. The length and cost of specific programs may differ. See all of our guided retreat offerings in the following pages of this booklet.
Hosted Retreats
Hosted Retreats are nonprofit, religious, and educational groups who hold their own programs which are consistent with M.J.S.C.’s identity and mission. The staff reserves the right of discretion regarding the use of the Center.
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction is available for those who wish to explore and develop their personal relationship with God through regular, ongoing sharing with a trained director. Contact the Retreat Coordinator to arrange an appointment to see a Spiritual Director.