Shortly after the establishment of the Diocese of Venice, Bishop John J. Nevins asked Father Charles Mallen, C.Ss.R. (pictured right) to begin the process of promoting the development of a retreat center for the young diocese. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in January, 1995 and eight months later Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center became a reality. A conference center and two villas were the first buildings completed. In a short span of five years the two villas increased to four, a dining center and chapel were added to complete phase one of the master plan.

In addition to the seven buildings on site, retreatants have the opportunity to spend time enjoying the beautiful grounds which include the Way of the Cross, the Rosary Walk and the prayer decks located along the river bank.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat and Spirituality Center is blessed with a dedicated staff and a committed corps of volunteers. They are the heartbeat that helps to keep the center alive and have served from the beginning.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat and Spirituality Center stands as a living testimony to what can be done when God's will becomes a reality. A wise man once remarked that "a difficulty is a miracle in its first stage". Our Miracle on the Myakka is poised to move into that next stage. It is our hope to include a Center for Youth equipped to meet the spiritual needs of our young people.

Our history continues to unfold as we move into the future....