Centering Your Heart
We believe life invites each of us to pause — not out of retreat, but to reconnect. In a world that often asks us to move faster and do more, we offer a different invitation: slow down, listen deeply, and come home to yourself. Our journey began not in pursuit of success, but in response to a deeper longing — for meaning, belonging, and connection. Like many who walk through our doors, we once carried full calendars and restless hearts. It was only when we made space for stillness that we began to hear what truly mattered. Centering Space was created to hold that stillness. Whether through contemplative prayer, shared silence, or meaningful dialogue, our programs guide you back to the sacred center within. You don’t need to have the right words or even a clear path — just a willingness to show up.
Here, you’ll find fellow travelers: women and men, seekers and questioners, grievers and revelers. People like you.
People finding their way.
May you leave here with a little less burden and a little more light. May you remember that your presence is a gift — to yourself, to our community, and to the world.
Our Mission
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.
Our Space
Centering Space is in a century home on Lake Erie’s shore in Lakewood, Ohio, shared with Lakewood Catholic Academy. The property includes a serene Mary grotto, sunset views, gardens, and a porch for quiet reflection. Next door, Lakewood Park offers green space and a peaceful atmosphere. We are surrounded by the sounds of everyday life which blend naturally with our calm and contemplative spirit.
Our Outreach
We love introducing others to the spirit and mission of Centering Space. Our volunteer ambassadors are available to visit church groups, book clubs, community centers, or anyone interested in learning more.
Presentations can be offered in person or via Zoom and may include a short slideshow, personal reflections, and time for Q&A.
To schedule a visit or presentation, contact us at centeringspacelakewood@gmail.com or call 216-228-7451.
Our Story
On November 1, 2003 a handful of dedicated folks gathered for reflective prayer in the living room at Centering Space and a beautiful ministry was born. Since 2003, individuals have prayed together, met in spiritual direction, attended programs on spirituality, and so much more.
Consider joining us as we step into the next 20 years. Your support is essential to the great ministry that takes place here. Your contribution — no matter the size — affects our growth and sustainability.
Director - Betsy Nero
Betsy Nero has been active at Centering Space since 2012 and became its sole Director in 2025. Her eclectic spiritual training and experience includes a two-year program at Shalem Institute where she earned a certificate in retreat leadership and contemplative prayer, working as a youth minister at Christ Episcopal Church in Shaker Heights, teaching theology and holding the position of campus minister at Beaumont School in Cleveland Heights, and leading retreats at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Bay Village for their women’s group. She brings years of experience across a range of spiritual settings and faith beliefs. In addition, she has Master's Degrees in Counseling and Human Services as well as in Ministry. Betsy offers the perfect blend of executive ability plus a warm and sympathetic personality that is so welcoming to the many of prayer and retreat participants who come here each year.
Director Emerita - Carol Kandiko, CSA
Sr. Carol entered the Sisters of Charity of Saint Augustine in 1959. Her love of and knack for learning brought two Master’s degrees — one in education and another in Spirituality. Her career has included stints as a high school teacher, the pastoral leader in a variety of parishes, and an adult education program leader at Crown Point Ecology Center, an organic farm operated by Dominican nuns. In 2003, Sr. Carol joined four other women to form Centering Space with a shared mission to create a place of love and wel-coming. Here, she has found her home in all definitions of the word. With her trademark hugs, Sr. Carol offers a warm welcome to all who enter the doors. She continues to grow and learn and appreciate the gift of mystery along with the awareness that we are all unique. In 2025, Sr. Carol as-sumed the role of Director Emerita. In addition to facilitating workshops, hosting events, and providing Spiritual Direction, she oversees the daily vigil hospitality.
Social Media Coordinator - Annie Brennan
Annie Brennan has been with Centering Space since September 2024. A John Carroll University graduate with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications and a minor in Theology and Religious Studies, Annie brings a background in creating meaningful content, graphic design and social media management to help share the organization's mission and programming.
Program Coordinator - Mary Kate Strimpfel
Mary Kate Strimpfel has a Bachelor's in Organizational Communications from Cedarville University and a Master's in Practical Theology from Winebrenner Theological Seminary. She brings a wealth of experience in retreat center operations, having previously worked at Our Lady of the Pines Retreat Center as Sponsored Retreat Coordinator, Communications Coordinator and Assistant Director. Mary Kate is excited to serve as Centering Space's new Program Coordinator.
