Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph

For 80 years the Sisters tended the flowers and shrubs and created a place of beauty, peace and welcome.  The Sisters themselves used the grotto to contemplate, rest and experience the joy of God’s love. 

Many couples had their wedding pictures taken at the grotto.

In the convent’s early years, annual fairs were held here. Friends and supporters came from Buffalo to visit the country convent during fundraising events.

For many years the students at Immaculata Academy came to the grotto and prayed the living rosary and then crowned Mary.

After 80 years the Sisters left their home at 5286 South Park Avenue but the grotto remained.  It has not been tended for a few years and Hilbert College is working in collaboration with Sinatra and Company Real Estate who owns the property, to restore the grotto to beauty and to become a place of peace once again.  If you are interested in assisting them in this endeavor contact Jeff Papia, Hilbert College Vice President of Mission, jpapia@hilbert.edu