Diocese of St. George's

Welcome to

St. Mary's Place of Solitude and Prayer

- a spiritual oasis in Newfoundand's scenic Codroy Valley

The Codroy Valley from the St. Mary's property.

St. Mary's Place of Solitude and Prayer was established by the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. George's and officially dedicated on July 15, l990. The Hermitage is to witness to a contemplative presence in the diocese for the world and by so doing to recognize a need for contemplative and spiritual reflection in the lives of all persons.

Two guest hermitages are available year round for individuals and couples who wish to spend some time in solitude and reflection in the peaceful and aesthetically beautiful location. There are no community activities at St. Mary's. If, however, a guest would wish to have some spiritual reflection or a directed retreat with one of the hermits, this may be arranged.

The hermits are situated on approximately 150 acres of land adjoining the Codroy River. On the property Sheila O'Handley and Nick O'Keefe live the eremetical way of life, supporting themselves through weaving, pottery, and gardening. For further information on the ST. MARY'S HERMITAGE POTTERY, click here. For information on WEAVING FROM THE CENTER, click here.

The guest hermitages are supplied with the basic requirements - hot and cold running water, shower, toiley, washstand, fridge and stove, wood stove, and propane lighting. Fresh towels and linen are provided. Guests are required to bring their own food,which can be bought locally.

The Codroy River flowing by the property is accessible for swimming, canoeing, boating and, in the winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are a number of beaches and hiking trails in the local area. Bikes are available.

One of the guest hermitages as seen from the Codroy River.

St. Mary's is located on the south west portion of the Island of Newfoundland in O'Regan's in the Codroy Valley, 35 kilometres north of Port Aux Basques, 180 kilometres south of Corner Brook and 120 kilometres south of Stephenville.

The bus from St. John's, Stephenville Airport and the ferry terminal in Port Aux Basques (DRL Coach Lines) stops on the Trans-Canada Highway at Doyles and, if we are given adequate notice, guests will be met.

For those driving, it is best to drive to Doyles in the Codroy Valley on the Trans Canada Highway and follow directions. See accompanying map.

Suggested Rates

To book one of the guest hermitages, contact Sheila O'Handley at Box 145, RR #1, Doyles, Newfoundland, Canada A0N 1J0 or telephone (709) 955-2150. If you wish to make an enquiry or booking by E-Mail, just click on the icon below.

To go to the Diocesan home page, click on the icon below.

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