St. Mary on the Lake

Overview

St. Mary-on-the-Lake (SMOL) is a serene and mission-driven retirement and community living center for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace (CSJP). Situated on a picturesque 9-acre property in Bellevue, Washington, SMOL serves as a home for aging sisters, a regional hub for the CSJP community, and a center for spiritual retreats.

Mission and Values

SMOL embodies the core values of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace:

• Peace and Justice: A commitment to advocacy, social justice, and service to the poor.
• Hospitality and Community: Fostering a home-like, welcoming atmosphere for sisters, guests, and employees.
• Spirituality and Service: Supporting the sisters' spiritual lives while providing meaningful opportunities for continued engagement in service and ministry.

Community and Lifestyle

• The sisters live in a family-style communal environment, supporting one another while maintaining autonomy in their daily lives.
• Many sisters have professional backgrounds in education, administration, healthcare, and social work, and they remain engaged in service as their abilities allow.
• A culture of collaboration exists between the sisters and staff, with mutual respect and a shared commitment to maintaining a vibrant, caring home.
• The Peace & Spirituality Center, located on-site, serves as a hub for retreats and spiritual programs, welcoming outside groups while maintaining a sense of sacred space for the resident sisters.
• The property’s natural beauty enhances the sense of freedom, independence, and interconnectedness among the sisters.