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Heaven on Earth

Anne Gardner
5 min readJul 14, 2021

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St. Thecla’s Retreat House (Billerica, MA)

If you’re looking for a little bit of heaven here on earth, look no further than the bevy of nearby retreat centers located north of Boston.

Surrounded by woodlands and tucked beside marshes, options for the spiritually inclined abound. Each facility caters to a slightly different clientele. So whether its rest, silence, or the balm of nature you seek, go local. The assortment may surprise you.

The Big Three

Adelynrood Retreat and Conference Center (Byfield, MA)

Boasting a weathered wood shake exterior, Adelynrood is an Arts and Crafts-style gem. Think screened porches, rocking chairs, and soot-stained fireplaces. Staying at Adelynrood is like stepping back in time.

The recent addition of a new conference wing has turned this summer haven into a year-round operation. But the biggest improvement may be in the kitchen. The new chef is a graduate of the famed Culinary Institute of America. His flavorful menu features delightful concoctions, including an expanded slate of desserts. You needn’t be a retreat participant to enjoy the upgraded cuisine. Reservations are available to all.

The other captivating aspect of Adelynrood is its history. The property is operated by the Society of the Companions of the Holy Cross, a group of women volunteers. Aligned with the Episcopal Church, members of…

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Anne Gardner
Anne Gardner

Written by Anne Gardner

Writer. Minister. Adventurer. When I grow up, I want to be the next Nancy Drew, or George Plimpton, or Lisa Ling, or Anne Lamott, well you get the idea.

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