The St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton is blessed to carry forward the rich legacy of the former St. Francis Retreat House, a place that touched countless lives through prayer, retreat, and spiritual renewal for more than six decades. Opened in 1961 and operated by the Franciscan Friars, the Retreat House became a beloved destination for individuals, parish groups, schools, clergy, and religious seeking a deeper encounter with God in the peaceful surroundings of the Lehigh Valley.

Over the years, generations of retreatants found inspiration within its chapels, conference spaces, gardens, outdoor shrines, Stations of the Cross, and sacred grounds. The property became known as a place of quiet reflection, hospitality, and Franciscan simplicity—a sanctuary where many experienced moments of conversion, healing, discernment, and renewed faith.

Following the closure of the Retreat House in 2024 after approximately 65 years of ministry, a new chapter began when the property was entrusted to the stewardship of the Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation, Inc. Inspired by Monsignor Coll's lifelong commitment to serving the Church and creating opportunities for spiritual growth, the Foundation embraced the responsibility of preserving this sacred place for future generations.

Today, as the St. Francis Spirituality & Retreat Center of Easton, we honor the faithful service of the Franciscan Friars and all who helped build this cherished ministry, and we look forward with renewed hope. Rooted in the spiritual tradition of the Catholic Church and inspired by the humble witness of Saint Francis of Assisi, we continue the mission of welcoming individuals and groups to encounter the presence of God, experience the peace of Christ, and find renewal of mind, body, and spirit.

The Monsignor Robert J. Coll Foundation, Inc., remains committed to preserving the prayerful character, natural beauty, and spiritual purpose of these grounds so that this holy place may continue serving the people of the Lehigh Valley, the Diocese of Allentown, and beyond for generations to come.