We are pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to our Board of Directors. Stephen G. Hart is Vice President of Human Resources and Human Capital Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. Dr. Maureen O’Connell is Chair the Department of Religion and Associate Professor of Christian Ethics at La Salle University. Mr. Stephen Hart joins Cranaleith’s Board following many years of service on our Work & Spirit Advisory Committee and as a program presenter. Steve resides in Willow Grove, PA. He holds a BS degree in Marketing from La Salle University and an MS degree in Organizational Dynamics from the...
Blog
Cranaleith Launches Brand New Website!
After months of hard work and dedication from our staff, we are excited to debut our new website! From compelling imagery to color scheme to typeface, this beautifullydesigned site highlights Cranaleith’s natural beauty and mission of healing and transformation. Visitors can enjoy a more user-friendly experience while learning about our extensive selection of retreats, programs and services. New web features include:abrand newonline catalogsearchable by date or desired topic area;detailed descriptions and images ofrental spaces and accommodations; auser-friendly online registration and payment system; anenhanced donor gatewayallowing for recurring and designated donations; ablogandsocial media tools (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). Technical support for...
Introducing New Program Director, Kathleen McCauley
We are pleased to welcome new Program Director, Kathleen McCauley to the Cranaleith family. Trained in the areas of pastoral ministry, clinical pastoral work and spiritual direction,Kathleen has developed and facilitated retreats for churches, groups and individuals. She has extensive experience in12 Step Spirituality, as well as in personal and career discernment. Her prayers and spiritual writings have been published by Abbey Press and she is a regular contributor toRuby for Women, a Christian women’s magazine. Kathleen McCauley, who is not related toSisters of Mercy founder, Catherine McAuley,describes herself as a “deep diver,” wanting to experience the world, others and...
Carrot Ginger Soup Recipe
If you’ve visited Cranaleith, you know that soups are a mainstay of many of our garden-to-table meals. As winter fades away, we find ourselves craving lighter, fresher flavors. This vibrant soup is sure to wake your senses to the coming of Spring. Ingredients: 1 large onion, chopped 1 tbs + 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth 2 tbs fresh ginger, sliced 4 medium cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp curry powder 2 cups sliced carrots, about 1/4-inch thick 1 cup sweet potato, cut into about 1/2-inch cubes 5 oz canned coconut milk Salt and white pepper to taste Directions: 1. Chop...
Lent Retreats Offer Opportunities to Slowdown
Lent is a holy season of the church year, beginning with Ash Wednesday (March 6, 2019) and ending on Easter (April 21, 2019). It is a time of preparation for Easter through prayer, reflection, silence, repentance, reading, and growing in the grace of God. Many people see these 40 days as a time to refresh and renew their relationship with God and each other. It is a time to slowdown and to bring “springtime” into the soul burdened by the hate and fear in our world, conflicting human relations, and the lack of world peace. Join us for one or...
Women Experience the Transformative Power of Listening
According to mind/body pioneer, Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, “Listening is the oldest and perhaps the most powerful tool of healing. It is often through the quality of our listening, and not the wisdom of our words, that we are able to effect the most profound changes in the people around us. When we listen, we offer with our attention an opportunity for wholeness. Our listening creates sanctuary for the homeless parts within the other person.That which has been denied, unloved, devalued by themselves and others. That which is hidden.Listening creates a holy silence. When you listen generously to people, they...
Cranaleith Named a Zone of Peace
Cranaleith held an event on Sunday, November 11, 2018,to celebrate its designation as aZone of Peace by the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia. “We chose Cranaleith is a Zone of Peace because of its role in offering people from all backgrounds a place free from fear, filled with respect, and marked by deeds of kindness,” said Rev. B. Hougen, Ph.D., Coordinator of the Zones of Peace Initiative. Rev. Hougen presented Cranaleith with a banner which will be displayed on the Center’s grounds. Participants prayed for the urgent need for peace around the Center’s peace pole and made peace flags....
20th Anniversary Gala a Great Success
Cranaleith celebrated its 20th Anniversary at a gala September 27, 2018, at Knowlton Mansion in Northeast Philadelphia. More than 200 business and nonprofit leaders and philanthropists attended the event. “Tonight gives us the opportunity to celebrate Cranaleith’s first 20 years, the 80 seasons that Cranaleith has been a place of transformation and healing for thousands including those living in poverty, people struggling with addiction and those with mental health issues, said Charlene Flaherty, Cranaleith Executive Director. Sharmain Matlock-Turner, President and CEO, Urban Affairs Coalition and Maureen H. McCullough, JD, Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Regional Director of Catholic Relief Services received the Catherine McAuley...
Eco-Spirituality at Cranaleith
When driving onto Cranaleith’s property, you will notice the expansive lawn and stately historic Victorian house. You may also find Leslie Porreca in the garden or tending her beehives. Leslie is a Sister of Mercy and licensed therapist. She also leads Cranaleith’s Eco-Spirituality program.Leslie’s work includes sustainability and permaculture activities such as recycling, composting, water conservation and buying local. With the assistance of staff and volunteers, she manages an expansive year-round garden featuring a variety of herbs and heirloom vegetables, beehives and a chicken coop. “Fresh and nourishing,” are the wordsretreatants use to describe Leslie’s garden-to-table meals. An in-house gift...