The Dwelling Place came into being in response to God's call to Sr. Clare Van Lent, OSF, in August 1985. In January 1987 it became a reality through the assistance of the Dubuque Franciscan Community and benefactors when she and Sr. Maggie Kosse arrived at the former Trappist monastery located north of Brooksville in east central Mississippi.
Mary Horrell
Physical Plant Manager
Clare Van Lent
Founder and Administrator
Sheila Avery
Administrative Assistant
The original monastery consisted of a small chapel/library building. A 1960's triple-wide trailer and lean-to served as a monastery, kitchen/laundry, and carport. A second trailer served as a guesthouse.
The early years were spent renovating the property, creating a retreat ministry, incorporating the enterprise, and receiving non-profit status.
The early 1990's saw the formation of an advisory board, creation of the associate program, and construction of Umbria Guest House and our hermitages- Francis House, Clare House, and Maria House.
Since that time we have built a stronger financial base with our Partner Program of planned givers and established an Endowment Fund. We also began conducting an annual appeal each autumn.
Between 1998 and 2003, a staff house was erected, a sacred path with Stations of the Cross was created, and our beautiful gazebo was donated and built on the banks of our pond.
Most recently, we have embarked on a capital campaign to replace the fragile, high maintenance, triple-wide trailer and lean-to that were part of the original monastery property. When realized, the new administration/dining facility will enhance the retreat experience at The Dwelling Place for many years to come.
For all the changes that have occurred since we first began, we remain focused on our goal of service to the Christian community.
Please join us for one of our scheduled retreats... or request a personal retreat that you can customize to your needs or those of your group. Clare, Mary, and Sheila are available to assist in making your stay at The Dwelling Place a special and memorable experience.
The Dwelling Place
2824 Dwelling Place Rd • Brooksville MS 39739-9796 [ USA ]
phone: [662] 738-5348 • fax: [662] 738-5345