Archdiocese of Toronto Acquires Invermara Property from Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto

The Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto and the Archdiocese of Toronto are pleased to announce the sale of the Congregation’s Invermara property in Orillia. The archdiocese will take possession of the property from the Sisters on October 1, 2024 and it will continue to serve as a place of welcome, reflection and prayer.

Originally acquired in October of 1941 as a summer residence for the almost 500 members of the congregation, it provided the Sisters with a serene and peaceful haven on the enchanting northern shores of Lake Simcoe. 

The Invermara property was used regularly by the Congregation as a place for spiritual enrichment as well as offering space to their congregational ministries for reflection and planning. Through the decades, the Congregation welcomed new groups to its summer property, including other religious congregations who have made use of Invermara as a place of reflection and relaxation.

Following a decision to sell the property, the Sisters wanted to ensure the new owner would maintain the space and use it in a similar manner to ensure an ongoing legacy through thoughtful and responsible stewardship.

“We are delighted that the Archdiocese of Toronto has purchased Invermara and will continue our longstanding tradition of hospitality, prayer and welcome in this tranquil setting,” said Sister Georgette Gregory, Congregational Leader of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto. “It is heartening to know this property will live on in a similar spirit for years to come.”

On behalf of the Archdiocese of Toronto, the Most Rev. Francis Leo spoke of the next chapter in Invermara’s vocation: “I pray that Invermara will provide a respite for our faith community where people can gather to reflect, rest, pray, enjoy fellowship and God’s creation in such a picturesque setting. Let us tend the seeds of hospitality and love nurtured by the Sisters of St. Joseph over so many years as we welcome the next generation of guests to this special place of welcome.”

The Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto is a Roman Catholic religious congregation of women who originated in Le Puy-en-Velay, France in 1650. They arrived in Toronto in 1851, and have dedicated themselves to helping those in need through life-giving ministries. The Sisters established schools, hospitals, and social service organizations throughout Canada. In recent years, their ministries have focused on addressing and raising awareness of the injustices and inequalities faced by our planet and our neighbours with whom we share a common home.