Common Novitiate House Available for Ten-Month Alternative Use

ST. LOUIS, MO – April 3, 2009 --  The members of the Collaborative Dominican Novitiate Board recently announced that it will suspend the operation of the Collaborative Dominican Novitiate (CDN) for the year August, 2009 through May, 2010.  With only one woman ready for the canonical year, it is neither feasible nor advisable to run the program this coming year.

A Task Force is looking at alternative uses that will accommodate the coming novice classes in the future when they are smaller and exercise good stewardship now. The CDN Board will open the house to alternative uses for ten months from  August 2009 to May 2010.

The CDN house, in the upper west end of St. Louis, is owned jointly by the member congregations.

According to Mary McMahon, OP CDN Board President, this is an opportunity for a group who wants to take advantage of the space adn location for a particular project or program. Somone might want to do an experimental Hospitality House, or someone wanting to begin a novel sabbatical program in a diverse, urban neighborhood.   “Perhaps two or three or more want to come and experience St. Louis and the surroundings for a month or two.  What other ideas are popping at the thought of furnished house being available for ten months?”

The house is furnished and has 12 private bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, central heat and air conditioning, one fully equipped kitchen and shared laundry facilities in the basement. It is not handicapped accessible.  There is off street parking and porches on the first and second floors at the rear of the building.  Some contribution to the cost of utilities will be requested.  Users of the home will also be responsible for their own laundry, cleaning supplies and food stuffs.

"It is a beautiful house in a culturally diverse neighborhood, close to ethnic restaurants and shops, Forrest Park, a library, and many old homes.  I love the third floor bedrooms," said S. Maryann.  If you are interested in pursuing a conversation about use of the CDN House, please contact Maryann McMahon at mmcmahon@racinedominicans.org as soon as possible.

“There has to be some way we can share this resource with others.  Help us discover how we can use this space well for the ten months it is not a novitiate.  Get those creative juices going!” Mary added.