History
The Carmelite order of the Most Pure Heart of Mary established the Aylesford community in Darien Illinois in 1959 to provide a priory house for the order. The National Shrine of St. Therese and the Carmelite Spiritual Center soon followed.
Specialties
The rich tradition of Carmelite spirituality and hospitality provides a setting for a variety of programs for men and women seeking a deeper experience of God and of themselves. We welcome groups who facilitate their own meetings, retreats, or workshops as well as individuals wanting to plan their own private stays here at the Center. We have 59 double rooms for guests, a full kitchen providing home-cooked meals, and several meeting rooms of various sizes as well as a chapel. We are near the National Shrine of St. Therese, making the Center an idea location for overnight pilgrimage groups.