About the Center of Solitude
The Center of Solitude is situated on 60 acres of pristine open fields and serene forests in the rolling foothills outside of Belmont, NY.
Vision
Spiritual transformation through solitude, silence, and meditation amid the majesty of nature.
Mission
To operate a nonsectarian, nonprofit retreat center providing a wondrous natural environment and comfortable facilities amenable to spiritual transformation and the elevation of well-being of individuals [and small groups] through solitude, silence, and meditation.
History
The Center of Solitude is a nonsectarian 501 C3 organization incorporated in September of 1992. Its founder, Sister Donna Marie Paolini, had the opportunity to spend six months in solitude where she experienced the transformative power of silence amidst the beauty of nature. Her vision was to make possible for others the profound spiritual growth she experienced.
As her religious community was unable to support this endeavor, Donna Marie turned to her family and friends in the Buffalo area, and over many years, accumulated the funds to purchase the property and then to build what is now the Center of Solitude. Sister Donna Marie moved into the main house in 2002 and began hosting individuals for solitary retreats and group retreats.
In 2017, Joan Gravanda, Vice-president of the Center of Solitude, approached Rich Reilly, president of Olean Meditation Center, in the hope that he and his group would carry forth the mission of the Center of Solitude when the time came for Sister Donna Marie to terminate her ministry there. In 2024, Sister Donna Marie, at age 94, was succeeded by Rich Reilly as president of the Center.
The Hermitage
We offer solitary retreat reservations at The Hermitage.
The Donna Marie
For religious and spiritual groups, we provide facilities for day-long and overnight retreats at The Donna Marie. Contact us to request information.
Sister Donna Marie Paolini, the founder of the Center of Solitude, shares her personal story, the center's history, the inspiration her faith has provided throughout her journey, and her vision for the Center of Solitude's future.