ABOUT
Nazareth Retreat Center was founded in 2009 in the 200+ year old tradition of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. We are a non-profit ministry dedicated to providing opportunities for peace, prayer, and reflection to all in a beautiful, sacred, and historic setting. We are located just outside of Bardstown, Kentucky; mere minutes away from My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown Main Street, Bernheim Forest, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and the historic “Holy Land” of Kentucky.
Our Mission
Nazareth Retreat Center stands in the long tradition of the mission of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, serving all peoples, the poor, women, the marginalized and care for the earth. We offer opportunities for spiritual reflection in a holistic ecumenical approach, which reverences the human spirit and all creation. We are committed to respond to the diverse needs and longings of the people of God in these challenging times.
Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church
Built in 1854, this Gothic-style church was designed by the architect William Keeley. It was constructed with materials from Nazareth’s grounds and limestone from Indiana. Mass and Vespers are open to all.
Mass: Monday – Friday 10:50 A.M. / Sunday 10:30 A.M.
Walking Paths
Scenic, well-maintained walking paths wind throughout almost all of Nazareth’s 300+ acres. Take a run, walk briskly, or amble through a slow, sight-seeing stroll. Comfortable benches, peaceful bodies of water, historic buildings, and devotional sites can be found along many of these paths.
Sacred Labyrinth
In the first century, Christians made regular pilgrimages to the Holy Land with the simple goal of drawing closer to God. Eager to walk the same grounds that Christ walked, pilgrims walked hundreds of miles praying and singing. Unfortunately, regional violence or disease often became an impediment to these travels. In response, churches across Europe began to build labyrinths and pilgrims were once again, symbolically, able to travel to the Holy Land.
Cozy Accommodations
A stay at Nazareth Retreat Center means a stay in one of our comfortable, overnight lodgings. You’d never be able to tell, but some of them are rather historic too! All of our rooms are climate controlled and, for your convenience, come with towels, bedding, and soap. Learn more and tour our accommodations here. Groups that are considering hosting their next retreat at Nazareth are welcome to schedule a time to tour our facilities.
Overnight Security
Nazareth Retreat Center has friendly security guards monitoring our campus 24/7. Based in the Security Post, they are happy to help and their contact information will made available to you upon your arrival.
Staff of Nazareth Retreat Center
Lisa Downs
Director, Nazareth Retreat Center
502-348-1597
ldowns@scnky.org
Sr. Carolyn Wilson, SCN
Bookkeeper
Matthew Moore
Guest Services
502-348-1513
mmoore@scnky.org