The Sisters of St. Joseph are selling their lakefront summer retreat and vacation property in Orillia.
The property at 200 Invermara Court has been owned and managed by The Sisters of St. Joseph since 1941. The 8.35 acres of waterfront property includes seven structures consisting of four residences (one is 5,500-square feet, one is 2,900-square feet and the other two are both over 2,100 square-feet), one cafeteria, one garage and pool shed.
According to a real estate ad from Colliers, since the 1980s, the property has served the Federation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Canada as the annual meeting place for board meetings, alongside other federation groups. It has also been used as a sanctuary for spiritual contemplation and prayer.
"After careful discernment, prayer, and reflection, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto has made the decision to divest of their retreat and vacation property located in Orillia," said Vickie McNally, Administrator for CSJ Ministries, in a written statement to OrilliaMatters.
"This decision was made with utmost deliberation and respect for the property and its rich natural surroundings," said McNally.
The Sisters of St. Joseph are seeking a new property owner who "appreciates the property's natural beauty, privacy, peace, and tranquility."
Offers on the property will be considered based on the purchaser's profile and intentions with the property, she added..
The Sisters are looking for "another charity, non-profit organization, or another group or individual that can demonstrate a bold vision to ensure the property maintains a legacy and a continued social purpose," notes the ad.
"The Sisters’ commitment to preserving its legacy and ensuring its harmonious future remains resolute," McNally said. "They endeavour to identify a discerning buyer who shares their deep appreciation for the property's natural peace and tranquility."
McNally says the Sisters of St. Joseph are thankful for the years of support from the Orillia community.
"As they embark on this transformative journey, they express their profound gratitude to all those who have contributed to the enduring legacy of this haven," she said.
While the property is currently for sale, the Sisters of St. Joseph plan on staying in Orillia until the fall of 2024.
"The Sisters will continue to enjoy and utilize the property, nurturing their relationship with it and the community it resides in," McNally said.
