In the Summer of 2023, we began an assessment of our property and buildings to identify problem areas. The motivating factors which precipitated the need for this assessment were the rising cost of repairs, increased maintenance due to failing systems within the monastery, and the acquisition of the 1322 property.

We have since established a Facilities Committee of outside professionals who serve in an advisory capacity, and partnered with skilled professionals to address the problem areas.

Due to the age and unique character of our monastery, extensive planning has been required. At the conclusion of the assessment we were aware of many problems; however, as the contractors have begun peeling back the walls, additional problems and challenges have been identified.

Our monastery building (1318) is composed of 4 sections: the Original House built in 1927, the West Wing and East Wing, both built in 1961, and the Chapel, which was renovated in 1991. We also own and are responsible for the upkeep of the 30-foot roadbed that extends from the monastery building to Dulaney Valley Road. In March of 2023, thinking of all those who have expressed their desire to come to the monastery to deepen their relationship with God, we purchased our neighbor’s property in the hope of expanding our contemplative ministry. This house (1322) is currently serving as an extension of the monastery for 4 of our sisters to reside during the West Wing renovation.

The scope of our renovation project is quite complex, and our needs are great. However, we are undertaking it in hope, looking towards our future with the goal of living contemplative life here on Dulaney Valley Road for the next 50 years. Without your support over many, many years we would not be able to undertake this project.

Scope of the Project

Phase 1: Immediate Needs (2024-2025)

Monastery

Replacement of the HVAC system throughout the entire monastery
Asbestos abatement and new flooring in the West and East Wings
Bathroom renovations in the West Wing
Renovations to our Infirmary to make the bathrooms and kitchen safer for our aging sisters
Improve our Life Safety compliance by upgrading the fire equipment throughout the monastery
Repair damaged sections of our slate and tile roofs
Replacement of the East Wing Roof
Repair of masonry
Replacement of the lighting in many areas of the monastery, including the Chapel
Replacing the major components of our walk-in freezer and refrigerator
Updating the Chapel bathrooms, live-stream equipment, and sound system

Access Road

Replacement of our Waterline from Dulaney Valley Road to the Monastery
Stormwater Management to correct areas where water collects

Phase 2: 1322 Property

While we are using this property for temporary housing for our sisters during the West Wing Renovation, we consider the 1322 Property to be a “Field of Dreams”. Stay tuned for how we hope to use this property to expand our contemplative outreach in the future.

Financial Support for the Project

We undertook this project with a 3-fold focus: our community’s future, creating safe living conditions for our sisters, and making the monastery as energy efficient as possible. To accomplish all that is needed, we have 2 fundraising goals:

Goal 1: To raise $1,500,000 from our benefactors (which matches the community’s contribution)
Goal 2: To raise $2,500,000 in the form of grants and pledges from various foundations

To date we have raised 50% of Goal 1 and 2.6% of Goal 2.

Ways to Give

Donations can be mailed to the Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore (1318 Dulaney Valley Road, Baltimore, MD 21286). If you wish to make a donation using a credit card, please call Sr. Celia (410-308-1105).

You may be able to save on income tax and avoid capital gains tax by making a gift of appreciated securities to the Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore. Brown Advisory accepts stock gifts on behalf of the Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore. For more information, please contact Cassandra Wright (410-400-6461, cwright@brownadvisory.com).

Legacy Gifts have made a meaningful impact in the life of our community. If you would like more information on naming the Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore as a beneficiary in your will, your retirement plan, or your life insurance policy, please contact Sr. Constance FitzGerald (410-308-1109, connie@baltimorecarmel.org)

We are grateful for the many ways you are supporting us during this time. As the year end approaches, we would like to ask your continued help by recommending our project to others who may be looking to make charitable contributions. All donations are tax deductible.

Legal Name: Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore

Address: 1318 Dulaney Valley Road, Baltimore, MD 21286

Federal Tax ID Number/EIN: 52-0591511