OUR STORY

History

The dream and vision for St. Francis Springs Prayer Center first began for Fr. Louis in 1970. For decades, Fr. Louis would make an annual week long silent retreat. During these retreats, he wondered how he might be able to offer this same type of opportunity to lay people and clergy. In 1998, after 15 years of service at the Greensboro Franciscan Center, Fr. Louis engaged a committee of people to explore the possibility of opening a retreat facility, and the dream of St. Francis Springs Prayer Center began to actualize. From the beginning, the center’s mission was to promote justice and peace. In 1999, there were seven gatherings attended by 214 people, all of whom affirmed the need for such a facility.

By December 2000, more than 1,000 people responded to the call for support, contributing over $1.25 million. On April 22, 2001, Fr. Louis and a group of committed Franciscans walked the current grounds, prayed at the Carceri Grotto, and heard God’s call for them to purchase the land. Since that time, hundreds of faithful staff and volunteers have poured their time, talent, and treasure into St. Francis Springs to make it what it is today: a 140-acre sacred space with 33 rooms, multiple meeting spaces, and many sacred nooks where all can rest and reflect.

Our Founder

Fr. Louis Canino, OFM

Timeline of St. Francis Springs Prayer Center:

  • 1998
    Fr. Louis Canino begins working on the dream of creating a retreat center for people to encounter God and begins to actively work on his dream of creating a sacred space for retreat and contemplation.
  • 2001
    140-acre property is purchased.
  • 2003
    Master Plan is developed.
  • 2005
    St. Francis Springs Prayer Center officially opens its doors to the public, welcoming its first guests.
  • 2010
    The labyrinth is added, offering guests a unique contemplative experience.
  • 2011
    The center continues to expand its facilities, building the three hermitages and the outdoor chapel.
  • 2016
    The two cottages are built, along with Mary’s Garden, to tie the southern part of the campus together.
  • 2017
    The gravel pathways and the Stations of the Cross are built.
  • 2019
    The Francis and the Leper statue graces the roundabout entrance.
  • 2021
    St. Francis Springs upgrades all of its technology, adding improved internet communications throughout the property.
  • 2022
    The bookstore is remodeled.
  • 2023
    The columbarium project is approved and building begins.

Embracing the Present and Future (2023-2026)

At St. Francis Springs Prayer Center, our dedication to providing a place for contemplation and renewal remains steadfast. As we embark on this transformative journey from 2023 to 2026, our strategic plan serves as a roadmap that envisions a future brimming with inspiration, growth, and service.

Mission

Inspired by the charism (spiritual gifts) of St. Francis and St. Clare, the mission of St. Francis Springs Prayer Center is to nurture and nourish the contemplative dimension of our life, which we hope will lead to promoting justice. We seek to provide a comfortable, peaceful environment where all can experience the beauty of nature, the sanctity of silence, and the joy of Franciscan hospitality.

Values

Hospitality, Spirit of Welcome, Comfort and Cleanliness, Natural Beauty, Reverence

Strategic Priorities

Justice Education, Welcome and Inclusion, Youth Engagement

Our Commitment

We are resolute in our commitment to upholding the core values of hospitality, contemplation, and justice that have defined us for decades. We understand that our mission is not static, but a dynamic journey that evolves with the needs of our guests and the changing world around us.

Join us in the spirit of St. Francis as we journey toward a more compassionate and contemplative world.