Organization Uses Healing Power of Nature

Cranaleith Spiritual Center is a sanctuary-like retreat and conference center tucked in the middle of the Somerton neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia. When driving in, you will notice the expansive lawn and stately historic Victorian house. You may also find Leslie Porreca in the garden or tending her bee hives.

Leslie is a Sister of Mercy and licensed therapist. She also leads Cranaleith’s sustainability initiatives. Research has found that spending time in nature is a powerful stress-reliever, lowers blood pressure and reduces depression. “We believe that earth care and human care are linked,” says Leslie.

Leslie’s work involves earth keeping, sustainability and permaculture activities. This includes recycling, composting, water conservation and buying local. With the assistance of staff and volunteers, she manages an expansive year-round garden featuring a variety of herbs and heirloom vegetables, beehives and a chicken coop. “Fresh and nourishing,” are the words retreatants use to describe Leslie’s garden-to-table meals. An in-house gift shop features honey and beeswax products from carefully tended hives.

When not in the kitchen serving conference groups, Leslie leads day and overnight retreats ranging from gardening and cooking classes to reflective and meditative retreats in nature that encourage participants to deepen their awareness of their connection to the earth. She also works with underserved populations through a partnership with local behavioral health and recovery organizations. Clients garden alongside Leslie and volunteers from the community in an eco-therapy program.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Cranaleith is a nonprofit that serves a variety of constituents. Businesses take advantage of the affordable meeting space for staff meetings and client gatherings. Individuals come seeking respite time in a sprit-rekindling environment “Cranaleith is open to everyone to enjoy,” says Leslie. “We invite you to come for a visit and learn what makes us such a special place.”

For more information about Cranaleith Spiritual Center, visit www.cranaleith.org or call 215-934-6206.