As we continue to live with the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems that almost every aspect of our lives has been impacted. It has changed our ability to socialize with family and friends, the celebration of significant events in the lives of family members, the way we access medical care, and possibly our work schedules among many others.

The Chiara Center has been significantly impacted as well. It has been closed since March 2020. In May we decided to suspend all activities at the Chiara Center until the end of August when we made the decision to suspend all activities indefinitely. These decisions were made to comply with the guidelines instituted by the State of Illinois and to protect our Sisters, employees, and guests.

As we anticipate the future use of the Chiara Center in the post-COVID time, we do not expect the activity to return to pre-COVID levels. With decreased usage, the ability to provide quality programs and accommodations will be significantly reduced. Based on all of these facts, the Provincial Council and I have made the difficult decision to close the Chiara Center permanently effective March 31, 2021. Today and in the coming days, we will be communicating this news to various audiences who are part of the Chiara Center family.

Many individuals will be impacted by this decision so I ask that you keep all of them in your prayers at this time.

In Francis and Clare,

Sister Maureen O'Connor, OSF
Provincial Superior