Welcome to
Bethany Retreat Center
Bethany Retreat Center was established in 1982 by the Anawim Religious Community of Frenchville, Pennsylvania. It is a place apart to rest, renew and be recreated for those seeking a deeper relationship with God.
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Located on 140 acres of partially wooded land in the hills of Pennsylvania, the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful — only 15 miles off Interstate 80.
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For almost five decades, Anawim Ministries, through our outreach programs – Life Line, Direct Services, and our Christmas Programs – has worked to bridge a gap between abundance and need. These three interrelated ministries work together to ensure that families in crisis or transition are not overlooked, particularly those falling through the cracks of traditional assistance programs.
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We are committed to long-term sustainability and continue to diversify our funding through appeals and in-kind donations. Our most recent annual value of in-kind donations is approximately $125,000. We are proud to note that even families who have received assistance often choose to give back, supporting the next household in need – a testament to the enduring impact of our work.
God Is Spoken Here
Come visit us
Bethany Retreat Center invites you to experience a serene journey through nature, featuring a tranquil trail through the woods that includes our Stations of the Cross, leading to the mountaintop cross. We also have a peaceful 102' x 87' labyrinth, the Mysteries of the Rosary, and a beautiful Marian Grotto, perfect for quiet meditation. Expansive lawns and lush gardens provide ample space for reflection and contemplation. Depending on the retreat, Mass may be celebrated in our peaceful prayer center.
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Our spacious dining room offers delicious home-cooked meals, and our air-conditioned prayer space provides a serene atmosphere for spiritual renewal. With both large and medium conference rooms, as well as a hermitage with a kitchenette, our center is ideal for one-day or overnight conferences, retreats, sabbaticals, or private days of reflection.
Retreats
Whether you're seeking spiritual renewal, creative inspiration, or quiet rest, we invite you to find a retreat that speaks to your heart. ​
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Our facilities are also available for rent for private retreat groups, church gatherings, and religious conferences. Reach out to discuss availability and pricing.
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Whether you're looking to enhance productivity, find inspiration, or simply rest in God's peace, a personal retreat day offers a sacred opportunity to disconnect from the busyness of life and reconnect with your spirit.
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In-Person, virtual and personal retreat days are available for individuals throughout the year.
​Please call Lisa for more information or to schedule your time of rest and renewal.
Spiritual Direction
Sr. Ruth Ann, CA is a Spiritual Director and Retreat Director.
She provides spiritual direction on an ongoing basis as well as spiritual companioning/direction during retreats at Bethany Retreat Center. Sr. Ruth Ann has her degree in Religious Studies from St. Francis University. She is also
a graduate of Shalem’s Spiritual Guidance Program.
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If you would like to speak with Sr. Ruth Ann Madera,
please call Bethany Retreat Center at 814-263-4855
Get Involved
Anawim ministries is able to exist because of the generous donations from the community.
Looking to get involved?
Call our office to learn more about volunteering.
To give a monetary donation simply click the donate button, or you can send a check to our address below.
Many hands make light work.
For Retreat information and to schedule call Lisa at
814-780-8101
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