The Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore, heirs of the first Carmel in the United States, living since 1961 in a monastery on a 27-acre property in Dulaney Valley, Baltimore County.
What it needs
An assessment begun in summer 2023 found failing systems in the 1927 original house and the 1961 wings. Phase 1 (2024-2025) covers replacing the heating and cooling system throughout the monastery, asbestos abatement, bathroom renovations, safer infirmary bathrooms and kitchen for aging sisters, fire-safety upgrades, repair of the slate and tile roofs and a new east-wing roof, masonry, lighting, and a new waterline and stormwater work on the access road. Phase 2 concerns the neighboring property bought in March 2023, which now houses four sisters as an extension of the monastery.
Before you act. The renovation page is undated and does not say how much of Phase 1 has been completed; the fundraising percentages are as published there. No plan for the Phase 2 property has been announced.
Cement plaster applied in the mid-twentieth century trapped moisture and damaged the decorated facade; conservators are removing it and stabilizing the original plaster in seasonal phases, with later phases to replace lost columns and the balcony. The Spring 2026 newsletter adds that the Convento and Granjon wings need foundation reinforcement, adobe wall rehabilitation, new water and electrical systems, treatment of insect-damaged mesquite beams and hazardous-material abatement. Donations to Patronato San Xavier pay for the conservation team, outside experts and the next stages of work.
The community says it is at capacity in its present building and tiny temporary chapel and is running out of room for new vocations, while the 1960s ranch house that holds the chapel is deteriorating. Ground was broken on 5 June 2026 for phase two, a two-story living-quarters building of about 30,000 square feet bringing capacity to 70 sisters; phase three is a permanent monastic church. Gifts go to the 'Help Us Build' fund, including a 'One Day Wage' appeal.
