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About Us

The Spirituality Centre is an initiative of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD).  The Centre is rooted in the spirituality 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 Centre.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

We are often asked questions such as the following. 

  1. How do I become a friend of the Centre?
  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,

Click here for more information >>

Becoming a Friend of the 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>>

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

In the spirit of reconciliation, the Society of the Divine Word, Australia Province, acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, sky, and community.

We acknowledge their skin-groups, story-lines, traditions, religiosity and living cultures.

We pay respect to their elders, past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to all indigenous peoples of New Zealand, Thailand, and Myanmar.

We are committed to building with them, a brighter future together.