Those who live with us include Oblates and Associates and friends, as well as our pony, dog, and cat. Our History The Community of St. John Baptist was founded in Windsor, England, in 1852, by Harriet Monsell and the Rev. Thomas T. Carter. It arose out of a need for persons dedicated to contemplative prayer and active service in the Church. In 1874, the Community came to the United States, settling first in New York City and later in Mendham, New Jersey. Our Work Our Community operates St. Marguerite's Retreat House , which has a full program of retreats and conferences.
Sisters lead retreats and offer spiritual direction.
Individual retreatants are welcome at the Convent. Our work in local parishes includes Christian education, visiting the sick and homebound, and other ministries to those in need. The Sisters also engage in individual ministries of various kinds.