With Spiritual, Artistic and Inspirational Programs, Lumen Center Fills a Void

Whether you are searching for spiritual direction, are interested in the art of calligraphy, looking for ways to bring comfort to others, or a teacher hoping to start the new school year off on the right foot, the Lumen Center has something for you. 

An idea born in 2000, the Center became a reality in 2003 when Patricia Crowley, OP, came to oversee the Lumen Center and immediately began putting together a series of programs designed to meet a wide variety of needs in the community. By 2004, the center held its first series of programs and published its first newsletter.

“So many places where retreats and the like were held are closing,” said Crowley. “As more and more places close, there is a growing need for places like the Lumen Center. We are working to make this a unique place that meets that need.”

Crowley, a Caldwell Dominican who has worked in education and administration, is the director of the Center, and holds a master's degree in Christian Spirituality. Today, with the help of co-director Kathleen Detlet, D. Min., and administrative assistant Joan Cappa, Crowley has made the Center into a successful meeting place.

The trio decided early on to offer programs that not only provide spiritual education and guidance, but also serve as a gathering place for social, educational and support needs. Today, the center offers anywhere from two to five programs per month that vary in both subject matter and type of speaker or teacher. In addition, many of the programs include breakfast or dinner.

“We find that sharing a meal before the program helps people feel comfortable,” added Crowley. “Joan is a fantastic cook and often makes a big Italian dinner for the Tuesday get-togethers.”

“At our last Tuesday event, a woman travelled from Oakland to attend,” added Cappa. “She read about the event, and commented to us on how homey and comfortable everything was.”

Led by presenters that include singer/songwriters, teachers, spiritual guides, authors, private counselors and more, the Center strives to provide an array of programs that enable people to find the event or events that best fit their interests or needs. More than 15 events are scheduled for August through December, including "Renew, Revive, Retreat," a program for teachers and staff to start the new school year.

“The program is designed to be a shot in the arm before the school year starts,” said Crowley. “They need to know that we all appreciate who they are and what they do.”

Other upcoming programs include a "Prayer Shawl Ministry: Called to be Healers," a knitting and crocheting group that makes shawls to bring comfort and healing to others; "A Matter of Trust: Being Gullible vs. Being Godlike," led by Ginger Grancagnolo, Ed.D., OPA, a lecturer, author, private counselor and graduate of ; "Calligraphy: Beautiful Handwriting," to learn basics of the Chancery Italic; and so many more.

“ is a true artist and leads many of our art-inspired programs,” said Cappa. “She creates beautiful stain-glass windows, wall hangings and paintings, many of which are displayed throughout the Center.”

Located in the Caldwell Dominican Motherhouse on the grounds of , most of the Center's programs are held in the Peace and Justice Room, a warm, library/living room setting with comfortable chairs and welcoming environment. For larger presentations, the groups assemble in the upstairs chapel.  

Today, more than 500 individuals have taken advantage of the programs offered by the Center, and more than 300 subscribe to the Center’s e-mail list. The Center is also working on a new web page, designed by Caldwell Dominican Sister Bridget.

“We really get energized by the people that walk through these doors,” said Crowley. “We want them to know that this place exists that is talking about the things that they want to talk about, and if we aren’t talking about them yet, we will.”

For more information on the Lumen Center, or to receive a copy of their upcoming programs, e-mail the Center or contact Sister Patricia Crowley.