Recent storms brought unprecedented damage to Pacem in Terris Hermitage Retreat Center near Isanti in the Diocese of St. Cloud, the center’s executive director said. Thousands of broken limbs and downed trees litter the 240-acre grounds and trails. At least 13 of the retreat center’s 25 buildings received damage, some significant.
“In the 36-year history of Pacem in Terris, we have never witnessed damage like this,” said Tim Drake. “You can stand anywhere on the property and see destruction in every direction. For three days, the roads were completely impassable.”
The retreat center — which attracts people from areas including the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis — had four guests during an Aug. 26 storm that caused most of the damage. Those hermitages received little or no damage and all guests were safe. A second storm dropped a few more trees when it passed through Aug. 29.
Staff and volunteers worked three days to clear the roads of downed trees and debris. Professional tree crews removed trees that had fallen on the retreat center’s hermitages and a house on the property.
Still, much work remains to be done, Drake said. Currently, Pacem’s three miles of trails remain impassable. “It will take months, if not years, to clean up all the downed trees,” he said in a news release.
The retreat center has set up a fundraising effort to help cover the costs associated with cleanup and recovery. A benefactor is currently matching charitable donations dollar for dollar. Those interested in helping can visit: https://www.givemn.org/story/Ey5q3f
