The Center is a non-profit organization that has a variety of programs with the intention of meeting the needs of people who come to us.

We divide those programs into five general groupings.

• We have an environmental program that includes two residential summer camps, school camps, and a farm that is set up as an educational unit.

• We have a religious program that includes the Chapel with its weddings, baptisms, memorial services, and Sunday afternoon Vespers service. 

• We also have facilities for retreats, both our own and rental to others.

• We have a social service program. Its main emphasis is alcohol/drug rehabilitation, both resident and nonresident.

• We have an art program for adults and children including painting, pottery, basket making and other forms of folk crafts.

As you can see we hold an interest for a very diverse group of people.

THE CENTER’S MISSION AND VISION

The Center was conceived as a dream of the late Reverend Paul T. Sanders.  That dream became a reality in 1932 and has prospered over the last seventy-five years.  It is still in the process of fulfillment.  The dream is more than a place—it is a facility, a program, and a philosophy. Most of all, The Center is about people.

MISSION

To provide a sanctuary that exemplifies selfless love, beauty, harmony, and brotherhood…

    We help people reestablish and strengthen the spiritual and emotional foundations of their lives;

    We reach out with care and faith to enliven the human spirit with the consciousness of God's ever presence;

    We reconnect people with the natural world, encouraging appreciation and responsible stewardship of our environment;

    We present a total experience through the use of wholesome traditional and cultural activities;

    We nurture and restore balance and growth in people's lives.

VISION

The Center is…                                             

    A place that expresses the interdenominational guiding principals and teachings of love and service

    A place that is an anchor in our changing world

    A place that champions the simple, the necessary, the basic

    A place of physical and spiritual beauty

    A place of peace that can be felt by all who partake

    A place of order

    A place that puts empathy above accomplishment

    A place where people can give of themselves

    A place that promotes growth and gives room to grow

    A place that heals the body, mind, and spirit

If you would like more details on any of these programs, please stop by The Lodge or call (708)361-3650 to arrange an appointment with one of our 
Program Directors.