About Us

About JSC

The Janssen Spirituality Centre is an initiative of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), together with the Holy Spirit Sisters, both the active and contemplative branches.  The Centre is rooted in the Catholic tradition and is named  in honour of St Arnold Janssen SVD (1833-1909), whose dream of a united world moved him and his followers to reach out to people of all cultures and spiritual traditions.

The Centre, formerly the site of a contemplative community of the Good Shepherd Sisters, has been a place of prayer and relaxation since its foundation.  It has a living tradition of being a place for spiritual retreats and personal renewal. For many years it was known as 'Karuna',  a place of loving kindness and active compassion. This tradition continues as a central focus of the Janssen Spirituality Centre.

The Centre is proving to be a popular venue for people from metropolitan Melbourne, country Victoria and interstate.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

We are often asked questions such as the following.  

1.  How do I become a friend of the JSC?

2.  How do I receive a copy of the annual programme and newsletter?

3.  How much does it cost to attend programmes and retreats at the Janssen Centre?

4.   Are there live-in facilities?

5.   Are there facilities for people with special needs?

6.   How is payment made?

7.   Where is the Janssen Centre located?

8.   What sort of clothing should I bring?

9.   Who do I contact if I have other questions?

For the answers to these questions and more, Read More>>

 

Becoming a Friend of the Janssen Spirituality Centre

The Friends support the Centre by donating their time and labour as selfless service (seva).  The areas of most need include: assistance prior to and during events: assisting in the kitchen, the garden, etc.  If you are interested, please contact the Centre. There is a process of induction during which friends learn the ethos of the Centre, building on  their experiences and offering constructive suggestions.  Read More>>