Celebrando el Monte San Francisco
Una tradición de atender las necesidades espirituales

In the late 1800s, the Conventual Franciscan Friars were given 400 acres of land in southern Indiana, not far from Louisville, Kentucky. The property is now the central location for the Province of Our Lady of Consolation and home for several of the Friars. But for many years it was the location of a high school seminary with a working farm.

After the seminary closed in the mid-1970s, the tradition of serving young people continued. The Center for Spirituality hosts high school retreats throughout the school year, along with a regular schedule of retreats for adults of all ages.

The Friars, with the help of their neighbors and friends, have always worked to make sure that anyone can participate in retreat programs, regardless of their ability to pay. Beginning in the 1920s, an annual picnic attracting more than 1,000 people was a source of regular support. In 2015, the picnic was transformed into a new event – MountFest: An Experience of Kentuckiana.

Taking place this year on Saturday, June 3, MountFest features local food establishments, wineries, and breweries, and attracts local crafts people and artists to exhibit their creations. Local musicians provide a backdrop of live music.

Br. Bob Baxter OFM Conv., director of the Center for Spirituality, said the new event has attracted many new attendees while keeping long-time supporters coming back to help.

“We invite alumni, neighbors, and friends to join us,” Br. Bob said. “It’s a chance to enjoy artists, live music, food, beer, and wine, all while helping make our programs available to everyone who wants to attend.”