At the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, AZ, inspiration can be found in all directions. Nestled in the Valley of the Sun, between the majesty of Mummy and Camelback Mountains, the place affectionately referred to as “the Casa” is indeed a sight to behold. In fact, it’s been said that if you’re looking to embrace God’s creation, you need only to keep your eyes open while walking the Casa’s scenic campus. But here, open eyes, minds, and hearts can find so much more than beauty, as the Franciscan Renewal Center offers a restorative style and substance that visitors would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
“I’ll even go so far as to say that this is sacred and holy ground,” says Christopher Meyer, the Renewal Center’s Development Director. “When you come on campus, you feel an energy and experience a shift or a change.
This ground has been blessed by the tears that have been soaked into the ground, back in our healing gardens, in our pathways, or in our church—anywhere from corner to corner of this property.
It’s been blessed and consecrated. I guess you could say that even before the friars arrived here, it was seen as a sacred place. We’ve continued to build on that.”
In 1951, the Casa de Paz y Bien was established as a Catholic retreat center by the Order of Friars Minor. Today, the Franciscan Renewal Center works cooperatively with the Diocese of Phoenix to provide opportunities for spiritual growth, healing, transformation, and service to others.
Activities at the Casa include Mass at Our Lady of the Angels Church, sponsored and private retreats, conference space for non-profit groups, individual therapy and counseling, support groups, adult education, lifelong faith formation, spiritual direction, and volunteer ministries that serve the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized.
The Conventual Church of Our Lady of Angels
Among the rare, enriching discoveries to be made at the Casa is the Conventual Church of Our Lady of Angels, a breathtaking place of worship inspired by the beauty of Creation praised in “The Canticle of the Creatures,” a poem written by Saint Francis in 1225 -26.
The Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Angels builds upon the tradition of Franciscan hospitality, finding expression in the incarnation of an ancient Christian architectural tradition of circular churches in contemporary forms.
Sandstone on the lower walls symbolize earth, while the travertine features on the upper portion symbolize heaven. The cement floors remind visitors of the Franciscan value of simplicity. The hay motif throughout the church symbolizes the poverty, simplicity, and humility reflected in the circumstances of Jesus’ humble birth in Bethlehem.
The sacramental aisle aligns the Seven Sacraments of the Catholic Faith and ends with a call to action at the Beacon of Light window, which encourages the Christian community to actualize the Gospel of Christ and the Franciscan mission to help people through spiritual growth, healing and transformation, as well as service to others.
In the church’s liturgical art glass windows and sculptures, there are opportunities for personal reflection and experiences unique to each viewer.
The artistic elements of the church were commissioned to tell the story of Christ through a Franciscan lens, which among many things, is a tale of compassion for the poor and marginalized.
“Individuals and organizations are drawn here for docent-led tours of the church’s sacred art,” says Patricia Lee, Communications Director of the Renewal Center. “These guided experiences invite visitors to see beyond the surface—exploring the history, symbolism, and stories woven into every detail. It’s not just about viewing art, but about finding opportunities for personal reflection and connection.”
“Many of our faith community, who gather here regularly, are the people who have been rejected by Catholic faith communities, parishes, and churches around the world,” adds Christopher. “They’re looking more for meaning and depth and value, not just checking off a box saying, ‘I went to Mass on Sunday, I’m done.’ They’re looking for committed belonging.”
At the Casa, those looking for spiritual enrichment can find it in another once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“We were gifted one of only 299 seven-volume sets of The St. John’s Bible, Heritage Edition,” shares Patricia. “Its breathtaking illuminations carry a beauty and spiritual depth meant to be experienced by all.
The Heritage Edition of The Saint John’s Bible is the full-size, fine art reproduction of the original. It is the first completely handwritten, illuminated Bible commissioned by a Benedictine Abbey in over 500 years. Its handwritten lettering and stunning artwork truly present the Word of God in an engaging and inspirational way.
Visit the Franciscan Way Newsletter in October for Part II of “An Oasis of Renewal in the Arizona Desert.” To learn more about The Franciscan Renewal Center, visit https://www.thecasa.org/