History – Bethlehem Retirement Village

Our almost 200 years of history

In 1858 the Sisters of Saint Joseph purchased a property in Chestnut Hill which was to become the motherhouse for the Congregation. The use of that property grew to accommodate Mount St. Joseph Academy High School and Chestnut Hill College.

In 1894 the Rex Farm in neighboring Flourtown was purchased by the Sisters. Thorough the years the land became home to a new school building for Mount St. Joseph Academy, St. Joseph Villa, the retirement home for the Sisters of St. Joseph, and in 1984 Bethlehem Retirement Village.

For the Sisters of St. Joseph, the dream of providing affordable, safe, secure convenient housing in an attractive setting, for low income seniors became a reality with the building of Bethlehem Village.

Sisters Of Saint Joseph

We, Sisters of Saint Joseph, have a unique relationship with our sponsored works, places founded and supported by our Congregation where our mission of unity directs the philosophy, mission, values — the very life of each place. These sponsored works respond to educational, health care, social service, spiritual and housing needs in our world today. In these sponsored ministries our lay colleagues partner with us in fostering a spirit of loving God and neighbor without distinction.

Bethlehem Village

Founded in 1984 Bethlehem Village is supported by funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and directed in the spirit and mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. The 100 apartments at Bethlehem Village offer housing to seniors living on a limited income.

Saint Joseph Village

Founded in 1998 Saint Joseph Village is a good example of adjusting our sponsored works to respond to current neighborhood needs. An area of the property and part of a building used by Saint Joseph Academy have been renovated to provide 40 apartments for seniors living on a fixed income.
( 717 ) 637-4441

Cecilian Village