Founding The Immaculate Heart Monastery
“If you find us a monastery, we will dedicate it to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.” –Mother Agnes
On February 14, 1950, four Poor Clare nuns arrived at the then Gibson Estate in Los Altos Hills to establish their monastery. Los Altos hills at that time must have been a breathtaking site since the hills were covered with apricot orchards—acres and acres of blossoming trees for as far as the eye could see. When better than St. Valentine’s Day to begin this house of praise for God?
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Rebuilding our Monastery
“I will always take care of you.” –Promise of Our Lord to Mother Saint Clare
Fifty-one years after our arrival, time had taken its toll on our monastery which had experienced many structural “aches and pains.” Every possible “band-aid” had already been applied. Our patient contractor came to the unavoidable conclusion: The monastery would need to be rebuilt. But what could have looked like the end of our history was actually a new beginning: a door opening onto God’s unfolding plan.
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Gift Shop
Across the courtyard from the Chapel is our Gift Shop. In it we have an assortment of religious items including rosaries, crafts and drawings made by our Sisters; inspirational cards; books about the saints and about religious life. We also encourage visitors to write their intercessory prayer requests so we can pray with them and for their intentions.
The gift shop inventory changes frequently so please stop in and browse when you come to the Monastery.
Photo Gallery
Please enjoy these photographs of our Monastery grounds, our Sisters at work and in prayer, and inspirational aspects of the Poor Clare Colettines. God Bless You.
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