Woodway, Texas, United States

Convent of the Sisters of Mary Morning Star, Woodway

What it is

Seven contemplative sisters live a monastic routine of the Liturgy of the Hours, adoration, study and manual work in a convent just outside Waco, in the Diocese of Austin. They also visit women on death row at Gatesville once a month.

What it needs

The convent lacks space, especially for the craft work that supports the sisters. Construction of a chapel, hermitage, workshop and guesthouse began in November 2025 and the convent is taking donations for the building project.

Before you act. No cost, target or amount raised is published, and the building page is undated beyond the November 2025 start.

Sources

Last checked 8 November 2026. Parts of this entry could not be fully confirmed; see the note above. Responsible body: Sisters of Mary Morning Star, Woodway.

Other houses to consider

near Tucson, United States

Mission San Xavier del Bac

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.

Status: Appeal open
Facade works: US$1.4m
Community: In residence
Order: Franciscan
Founded: 1692

Tehachapi, United States

Bethlehem Priory of St. Joseph, Tehachapi

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.

Status: Appeal open
Community: In residence
Order: Norbertine
Founded: 1997