The Center of Renewal Retreat & Conference Center, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, Holy Name Province, is located on the grounds of Stella Niagara in the Town of Lewiston, New York. The retreat center was built as an addition to the motherhouse as a novitiate in 1966-67, and then transitioned into a retreat center on July 1, 1974.

The retreat center ministry was started in response to the need for renewal in the Church in the Buffalo area, and focused on providing a training center for lay leadership in the church. Between 1997 and 2004, the mission of the Center of Renewal was to offer hospitality to groups and individuals.

In June 2004, a new mission statement was approved which once again included retreats and spiritual direction as part of the services offered. The Center of Renewal currently fulfills a dual programming role: first to offer meeting space to outside groups, and second to offer sponsored retreats and programs with featured retreat presenters for spiritual growth and lifelong learning. The retreat center ministry provides quality meeting and overnight accommodation spaces for both individuals and groups, including churches, not-for-profits, schools and universities, professionals, community and civic organizations, crafters’ clubs, family reunions, graduate students, and more.

Our Mission is Our Future:

The Center of Renewal, Inc., at Stella Niagara is a community of service. In the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we provide hospitality, promote spiritual growth, and foster the development of people. Individuals and groups are welcome to this environment of peace and beauty.

Come Experience Our Interfaith Hospitality