Our Passionist Heritage

The Sisters of the Cross and Passion were founded in 1852 by Elizabeth Prout in Manchester, England. The care and concern of the congregation was for working women exposed to harsh living conditions in factory towns and for children whose education was totally neglected. In 1924 they came to America.

Identification with Christ in the mystery of His Passion is at the heart of their charism. They desire to share His sufferings and to be molded into the pattern of HIS death, so that by the power of His resurrection they may share in His glorified life as Risen Lord. This experience of His passion in our own lives enables us to express the compassion of Christ toward others and to spread among them the knowledge of Christ crucified.

About the House

Our Lady of Calvary Retreat Center opened its doors in 1958 as a center primarily devoted to parish based women's retreats. It was an extension of the Sisters' retreat ministry at Peace Dale, Rhode Island; and a parallel to the work being offered to men by the Passionist priests in West Hartford.

The original house, which was the Bissell family residence, was built in 1922. It contained 27 rooms on 18 acres of property. With the help of loyal, hard working supporters, the Sisters added the Saint Paul of the Cross Chapel and renovated the house to accommodate the retreat ministry. In 1964, an extension, which is now the conference room, and East/West Wing Dormitory rooms, was added to the facilities. During the summer of 1999 another additon took shape, doubling the dining area, enlarging the office space and providing two additional small conference rooms. St. Gabriel house, formerly the Bissell's garage and apartment, is currently the home of four Sisters of the Cross and Passion.