History of the Villa Madonna Retreat House

The Villa Madonna Retreat House was opened in 1931 under Bishop Edward Alfred LeBlanc as a summer retreat house for the priests of the Diocese of Saint John. The Sisters of Charity cooked and cared for the house and chapel each summer.

In 1958, the Diocese invited the Holy Cross Fathers to the Villa to provide spiritual care and act as directors. Soon after renovations were carried out to expand the building and a furnace was installed to allow the house to be used year round.

A board of Directors was appointed in 1990 to guide the facility’s future. More upgrades were completed at this time to create a renewed interest in retreats within the Diocese.

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The Villa Madonna Retreat House is named to honor Mary, the Mother of Jesus, often referred to as “Madonna” in Italian, meaning “My Lady” and This name reflects the retreat house’s dedication to providing a space for spiritual renewal and devotion within the Roman Catholic tradition. The choice of name underscores the retreat house’s mission to offer a place of peace, reflection, and spiritual growth, inspired by the virtues and example of Mary. Welcome to Our Lady’s House!