Programs

Weekly Centering Prayer

With Sr. Jean Ustasiewski, OSF

Open Dates
Zoom

This is a supportive virtual group gathering for those who wish to practice centering prayer. All are welcome, regardless of previous experience with this type of meditation. Each week, there will be: -a short reading or instruction -a 30-minute period of quiet centering prayer -5 minutes of walking meditation and -a 20-minute period of quiet […]

Bible Study on the Farm

With Patricia Platt

Open Dates
Red Hill Farm

Join us at 1 P.M. every Wednesday at Red Hill Farm. Enjoy thoughtful conversation and our beautiful farm. Ready to grow? This weekly bible study offers the opportunity for us to journey through the weekly Sunday readings together. When we gather to listen and read together, we open ourselves to new understanding. We may hear […]

The Hermitages at the Franciscan Spiritual Center - Aston

Flexible Dates
Franciscan Spiritual Center, 609 South Convent Road, Aston, PA 19014

The Franciscan Spiritual Center invites you to engage the practice of solitude in a unique modern location -- 46 acres of forest preserved by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Located between Philadelphia, PA, and Wilmington, DE, the Hermitages are nearby but feel far away. The revered practice of withdrawing into solitude spans centuries […]

The Enneagram Journey - Know Your Number, Know Yourself

With Sr. Regina Ryan, IHM, Ed.D.

September 8, 2026
Copper Beech Room

“For I do not do the good that I want but the evil that I do not want” (Romans: 7:19). Does this frustration of St. Paul sound familiar? Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same patterns, reactions, or struggles—even when you sincerely desire to change? Fortunately, you are not alone and there […]

Yoga (Fall 2026)

With Maryanne Williams

September 14, 2026
Copper Beech Room

The practice of Yoga brings one to union, harmony, and peace. During these sessions Basic Hatha Yoga will be presented. Relaxation techniques, classical postures and stretching with emphasis on deep breathing will be included. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring your own mat and water bottle. Please let us know if you need any assistance […]

Celebrating Change and Abundance: Labyrinth Walk for the Fall Equinox (Saturday Morning)

With Joyce McNally

September 19, 2026
The Labyrinth (between the Convent and the University)

The first of our Labyrinth Walks to Celebrate the Seasons of Mother Earth will be held at the Fall Equinox, a time when day and night stand in balance. As the earth begins its turn toward rest, we walk the labyrinth to honor the harvest, embrace change, and give thanks for abundance in our lives. […]

Morning Yoga to Welcome the Fall Equinox (Sunday Morning)

With Maryanne Williams

September 20, 2026
Copper Beech Room

Start your day with an hour of gentle Hatha Yoga to prepare yourself — body, mind, heart, and spirit — to welcome autumn when the Fall Equinox arrives later in the week.

Men's Spirituality Group (September 22, 2026)

With Fritz Haas

September 22, 2026
Copper Beech Room

Find your spiritual community. Our Men's Group meets twice monthly for open dialogue, genuine support, and collective exploration of faith and life's deeper questions.

Conversations in Faith (September 23, 2026)

With Sr. Pat Smith, OSF

September 23, 2026
Francis Room

Participants come together to share and enrich their faith with one another. Some come to listen, others to listen and offer their insights, suggestions, questions, etc. about faith issues that are unclear or seem to have changed. Should a topic need more research, the facilitator follows through and brings it to the group the following […]

Introduction to Centering Prayer (September 23, 2026)

With Sr. Mary Walsh, OSF

September 23, 2026
Copper Beech Room

Curious about Centering Prayer? Are you seeking a simple method to connect with the presence of God? "Be still and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10 Centering Prayer is a method designed to facilitate the development of Contemplative Prayer. It is a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with Christ.  Join us for […]

T'ai Chi Chih (Fall 2026)

With April Leffler

September 24, 2026
Copper Beech Room

Known for its slow, intentional movements, T'ai Chi has practitioners worldwide and is particularly popular as a form of gentle exercise and moving meditation, with benefits to mental and physical health. Join in this 6-week Thursday night series that runs from September 25 - October 29, 2025.

Taizé Prayer Service (October 1)

With Lynn Peterson

October 1, 2026
Our Lady of Angels Chapel

Monthly on First Thursdays: Rest and reset during this beautiful evening service. It's ecumenical Christian — but everyone's welcome regardless of background. We'll sing simple chants, be calmed by soothing harp music, and enjoy the peaceful environment of Our Lady of Angels Chapel. The service is free and open to all. Please register so we […]

Experience "No Risk, No Gain"

With The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia

October 6, 2026
The Fred P. Meagher Theatre

Join us for a special screening of No Risk, No Gain, a moving documentary that shares the inspiring story of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia and their enduring legacy of faith, courage, and service.  This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the mission and ministries that have impacted countless lives for generations.

A Day for Myself: Personal Day of Prayer ( October 8, 2026)

With Sr. Marie Angela Presenza, OSF

October 8, 2026
5th Floor Chapel and Canticle Room

Give yourself the ‘gift’ of a day! Take time from the busyness of your life. Rest awhile in the Lord and experience God’s loving, compassionate presence. “Be still and know that I am God.” The day begins and ends with a prayer experience. Lunch is included as our gift to you. Freewill offerings gratefully accepted.

Held By the Earth: A Grief Careshop

With Naila Francis

October 11, 2026
The Convent Grounds

In her poem, “Sleeping in the Forest,” Mary Oliver writes: “I thought the earth remembered me/ she took me back so tenderly,/ arranging her dark skirts, her pockets/full of lichens and seeds.” What would it feel like to be remembered by the Earth, to know we are held by her generous living body through our […]

From Division to Dialogue: A JUST Listening Workshop

With Sharon Browning and Brenna McGinnis

November 14, 2026
Copper Beech Room

The ability to listen with empathy and understanding is more crucial than ever. Many of us find ourselves frustrated and disheartened by conversations that feel more like battlegrounds than opportunities for understanding. 66% of Americans say that when discussing issues with those with whom they disagree, people are “quick to attack them.” Only 24% say […]

Deepening Our Listening Skills - Session 1: Creative Listening (November 21, 2026)

With Carol Martin Johnson

November 21, 2026
Copper Beech Room

This is the first of three workshops focusing on sharpening our ability to listen deeply.  To register for all three, please visit: Deepening Our Listening Skills – All 3 Sessions. We are surrounded by noise both inside of us, and outside of us.  Many things are competing for our attention.  It is easy to just […]

Deepening Our Listening Skills - All 3 Sessions

With Carol Martin Johnson

Package Dates
Copper Beech Room

These three workshops will focus on sharpening our ability to listen deeply.  These workshops will build on each other, but if you can't attend all three you are welcome to attend the ones you can. If you register from this page, the price will be $135 for the three session package and the registration page […]

Deepening Our Listening Skills - Session 2: Listening Through Our Bodies (February 20, 2027)

With Carol Martin Johnson

February 20, 2027
Copper Beech Room

This is the second of three workshops focusing on sharpening our ability to listen deeply.  To register for all three, please visit: Deepening Our Listening Skills - All 3 Sessions. We are surrounded by noise both inside of us, and outside of us.  Many things are competing for our attention.  It is easy to just […]

Deepening Our Listening Skills - Session 3: Listening to the Natural World (May 22, 2027)

With Carol Martin Johnson

May 22, 2027
Copper Beech Room

This is the third of three workshops focusing on sharpening our ability to listen deeply.  To register for all three, please visit: Deepening Our Listening Skills – All 3 Sessions. We are surrounded by noise both inside of us, and outside of us.  Many things are competing for our attention.  It is easy to just […]