Our Story

Centering Space is the culmination of a dream. Around the year 2000 a handful of sisters and laity gathered to determine what needs of people were not being met. There were many to choose from, but the focus they chose centered on spiritual needs. How do different folks identify their spiritual hungers? How do those who are in discernment learn to or have time to listen for the voice of God?

The Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine had spearheaded this search and were willing to put into action a plan to test the waters. Perhaps if we build it, they will come. There was an underused house on the campus of Lakewood Catholic Academy that could be refurbished. The house, that had been built in 1900 for the chaplain to their motherhouse, was offered to an eager group of volunteers to see what they could do. The building was claimed, cleaned and set up with the added help of very generous volunteers from St Matthias Parish in Parma. By the fall of 2003, three Sisters and a lay woman took over and began the process of formalizing a ministry of prayer and discernment. Together they defined our mission and goals, chose a name, and designed a Reflective Prayer ritual to offer every week. These have remained more or less unchanged, although developed over time.

We are a peaceful, sacred space (place) where anyone can come to center (listen for God’s voice in their heart). All are welcome — women and men of any faith or no faith. Our regular prayer times and a wide variety of programs are meant to draw people to experience the space and find the peace and rest in which God can be heard. Bedrooms have become retreat rooms. A library is filled with books on a wide variety of spiritual and religious topics. Small groups are welcome to use our space for meetings and/or mini retreats. Spiritual Direction is available. Individuals are encouraged to come by for quiet and respite.

Our Mission

Centering Space is a place where people can come and listen to their heart and hear the voice of God.

Our Vision

Believing the Spirit is active in each person’s life, Centering Space provides a welcoming, open and peaceful environment in which individuals can explore the movement of the Spirit in their lives.

Our Invitation

Individuals and groups are welcome to take advantage of our warm, casual, inclusive atmosphere. Come find your center, open to your spirit, and connect with others to renew, refresh and refocus your heart.

We Provide:

  • Weekly reflective prayer
  • A variety of spiritual programs
  • A library of spiritual resources
  • Places for individual quiet time
  • Gathering spaces for groups who choose to grow together
  • Spiritual direction
  • Individual overnight retreats
  • Access to Lake Erie’s shore

As a 501c3, donations are tax deductible

To see a complete calendar of programs and offerings, click here.