The Sisters of the Community of St. John Baptist (CSJB) came to the United States in 1874 and three years later, built their first convent in New York City. From this base, the Sisters began work. They worked with immigrants through the Holy Cross Mission, with women from the streets through the Midnight Mission, and with orphans through House of Prayer in Newark. They founded schools, convalescent hospitals, orphanages, and summer rest homes.
In 1900, the Community bought land in Mendham. In 1908, St. Marguerite's orphanage was built there. A new convent followed in 1915, and St. John Baptist School moved to Mendham in 1929.
Changes in society led the Community to shift its focus from large institutional works to a more flexible ministry. The school now houses Daytop, a teenage drug treatment center, and the orphanage became St. Marguerite Retreat House in 1960.
People come to the retreat house for many reasons: to rest, to reflect, to pray, to deepen their inner life, to gain fresh understanding and inspiration. Some join in organized retreat or workshop days, while others relax and find peace and refreshment from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Others find great meaning in conversation with other guests or members of the Community.
This place of spiritual renewal also requires some physical renewal! The circa 1940 Retreat House heating system has reached the end of its useful life. The Sisters are working with the State of New Jersey ‘s Clean Energy Program, a statewide program that offers financial incentives to help them save energy, money and the environment. While the state will cover 70% of the costs of a new boiler and updated electric infrastructure, nearly $20,000 of expense remains.
The Bishop’s third call of 2015 is for the St. Marguerite Retreat House heating system at CSJB. Your generous support of the Community, which has called people to "prepare the way of the Lord” for over 100 years, is most appreciated.
Peace,
The Rt. Rev. Mark M. Beckwith
Bishop of Newark
