History of the Centre

St. Francis Spiritual Centre, Kasarani, was established in 1991 through the generosity of a friend of the Little Sisters of St. Francis, who offered financial assistance to construct a spiritual centre dedicated to the ministry and formation of the Congregation. The original purpose of the Centre was to provide a peaceful environment where the Sisters could gather for retreats, seminars, meetings, spiritual renewal, and ongoing formation.

Over the years, the Centre has grown into a welcoming place of prayer, reflection, learning, and hospitality. While it continues to serve the needs of the Little Sisters of St. Francis, it has expanded its ministry to accommodate guests from within Kenya and beyond. The Centre welcomes individuals, groups, religious congregations, church organizations, and institutions seeking a serene environment for spiritual growth and professional development.

St. Francis Spiritual Centre has also become a place of hope and transformation for young people, school children, and marginalized members of society. Through seminars, leadership formation, educational programs, counselling, and spiritual accompaniment, the Centre contributes to the holistic development of individuals and communities.

Inspired by the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, the Centre promotes values of peace, simplicity, compassion, care for creation, and service to humanity. It continues to be a sanctuary where people encounter God, deepen their faith, and find renewed purpose for their lives.

Vision

To be a leading centre of spiritual renewal, holistic formation, and Franciscan hospitality, transforming lives through prayer, learning, and compassionate service.

Mission

To provide a peaceful and welcoming environment that nurtures spiritual growth, personal development, and community transformation through retreats, seminars, education, counselling, hospitality, and outreach, inspired by the Gospel and the Franciscan charism.

Core Values

• Faith in God – Placing God at the centre of all our activities and ministries.
• Prayer and Spiritual Growth – Promoting a deep relationship with God through prayer and reflection.
• Franciscan Hospitality – Welcoming every person with respect, warmth, and compassion.
• Service – Responding generously to the spiritual and human needs of others.
• Integrity – Acting with honesty, accountability, and transparency.
• Compassion – Showing love and care, especially to the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized.
• Excellence – Striving for quality in all services and programs.
• Peace and Reconciliation – Fostering harmony, forgiveness, and unity among all people.
• Stewardship of Creation – Caring responsibly for the environment as God’s gift.

Purpose of the Centre

The purpose of St. Francis Spiritual Centre is to:

• Provide facilities for retreats, recollections, seminars, workshops, conferences, and meetings.
• Promote spiritual renewal and faith formation for individuals and groups.
• Offer quality hospitality and accommodation in a peaceful environment.
• Support the holistic development of youth, school children, families, and community groups.
• Serve the poor and marginalized through educational, spiritual, and social empowerment programs.
• Foster dialogue, peace, reconciliation, and Christian values within society.
• Preserve and promote the Franciscan spirit of simplicity, prayer, and joyful service.

Guiding Policy

The operations and ministry of St. Francis Spiritual Centre shall be guided by the following principles:

1. The Centre shall uphold Christian values and the Franciscan charism in all its programs and services.
2. Every guest shall be welcomed with dignity, respect, equality, and hospitality regardless of nationality, race, gender, or religious background.
3. The Centre shall maintain an atmosphere of prayer, silence, respect, and peaceful coexistence.
4. All staff and visitors shall uphold high standards of integrity, professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct.
5. The Centre shall promote safeguarding, especially for children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
6. Resources entrusted to the Centre shall be managed responsibly, transparently, and sustainably.
7. Environmental conservation and cleanliness shall be observed in accordance with the Franciscan commitment to care for creation.
8. Programs and services shall promote holistic human development, justice, peace, and care for the marginalized.
9. Continuous improvement, teamwork, and excellence shall guide all aspects of the Centre’s ministry.
10. The Centre shall collaborate with the Church, educational institutions, community organizations, and development partners in advancing its mission.

Motto:

“A serine Centre of Prayer, Peace, Hospitality, and Transformation.”