About St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton
The Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation, Inc., a public charity doing business as the St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and expanding opportunities for spiritual renewal, retreat ministry, and faith formation. Inspired by Monsignor Robert J. Coll’s life and legacy, the Foundation is committed to maintaining this sacred place as a refuge where individuals and groups can encounter God and deepen their relationship with Christ.
The St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton exists as a sacred place set apart for renewal, reflection, and peace. Rooted in the spiritual tradition of the Catholic Church and inspired by the humble witness of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Center welcomes all individuals and groups to encounter God's presence, be spiritually renewed, and experience the peace of Christ. Through hospitality and reverence for this holy space, we continue the legacy entrusted to us, offering a refuge where hearts are restored and drawn into deeper communion with Christ.
Nestled on more than twenty acres of peaceful grounds in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania, just over an hour from both New York City and Philadelphia, the Center provides an ideal setting for private retreats, parish renewal days, school retreats, spiritual gatherings, and faith-based programs or corporate days of renewal. Guests are invited to pray in our chapels, walk the outdoor Stations of the Cross, spend time in our gardens and devotional areas, and embrace the quiet beauty of a place dedicated to spiritual renewal.
A Legacy of Faith and Renewal
The St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center is blessed to carry forward the rich legacy of the former St. Francis Retreat House, which faithfully served the people of the Lehigh Valley and beyond for more than sixty-five years. For generations, individuals, clergy, religious, parish groups, and schools came to these sacred grounds seeking prayer, reflection, healing, discernment, and a deeper relationship with God.
The Retreat House became known for its spirit of hospitality, peaceful surroundings, beautiful chapels, outdoor Stations of the Cross, devotional gardens, and the countless lives touched through retreat experiences. Today, we honor the Franciscan heritage that shaped this property while embracing a renewed vision for the future.
Following the closure of the Retreat House, the property was entrusted to the stewardship of the Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation, Inc., ensuring that this sacred place would continue serving the Church and the wider community for generations to come. Through the Foundation's leadership, the Center remains dedicated to its mission of prayer, renewal, and hospitality while preserving the spiritual character and beauty of the grounds.
Monsignor Robert J. Coll speaks with youth during a Catholic Relief Services mission to African nations.
Monsignor Robert J. Coll with Saint Teresa of Calcutta
A Partnership in Service
As part of this renewed vision, Bloom for Women has established its executive offices on campus and serves as an operational partner of the St. Francis Spirituality and Retreat Center, providing hospitality, guest services, and the many caring hands that make every visit warm and welcoming.
The Retreat Center is also a workforce development site for women in Bloom's programs — survivors of trafficking and exploitation who are gaining meaningful skills, confidence, and independence on their journey toward healing. Every retreat hosted at St. Francis becomes part of that story of hope.
Together, the Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation and Bloom are creating more than a retreat destination. They are cultivating a place where faith, hospitality, and healing meet — where every guest's stay helps a woman rebuild her life, and St. Francis remains a place of prayer and renewal for generations to come.
Looking Forward
Today, the St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton enters a new chapter with gratitude for the past and hope for the future. As caretakers of this sacred property, we are honored to continue its longstanding tradition of hospitality and spiritual renewal while welcoming a new generation of retreatants seeking rest, reflection, and a deeper encounter with the Lord.
Whether you come for a day of prayer, a weekend retreat, a parish gathering, or personal reflection, we invite you to experience the peace, beauty, and sacred purpose of this holy place.
Reserve your space today!
Complete the form to begin the process of booking your next retreat or conference.