At a cost of approximately one million dollars, St. Paul Hermitage began construction at the corners of Southern Avenue and Sherman Drive.  One September 18, 1960 the building was dedicated and Sister Salesia Godecker became the temporary administrator.  Several sisters from Ferdinand came to help staff the Hermitage until the sisters from Our Lady of Grace assumed full responsibility in June 1964.  Sister Mary Philip Seib was named the first administrator from Our Lady of Grace Monastery.

Realizing the commitment the sisters made to the elderly who occupied St. Paul Hermitage, it became evident that the establishment of a long-term health care facility was needed.  At St. Paul Hermitage, the residents are cared for until they are called to their heavenly home.  Therefore, in the late 70's the third floor was renovated into a comprehensive care facility for residents who could no longer care for themselves.

Also, because of the increasing number of people desiring to live at the Hermitage, expansion was the only recourse for the community.  Under the direction of the Lay board of Advisors, the construction of a new wing began.  Six new residential rooms, the comprehensive health care floor; physical and recreational therapy departments were dedicated on December 10, 1978.

Over the years, nearly 1,000 people have lived at St. Paul Hermitage.  Because of it reputation and popularity, it has a waiting list of approximately three years.  However, as the senior population continued to grow, the need for additional space was realized.  After a 4 million dollar capital campaign, a new comprehensive health care facility was added to the original building in 1994.  The former area on the third floor was renovated into apartments for retired Archdiocesan priests.  There has never been a time in its history that St. Paul Hermitage hasn't been filled.

"THE ELDERLY SHOULD BE HELD IN REVERENCE.. "(Rule of St. Benedict)

This amenity-laden facility is located on forty beautiful acres along with Our Lady of Grace Monastery and the Benedict Inn Retreat & Conference Center also owned and operated by the sisters.  St. Paul Hermitage offers a perfect setting for the leisurely retirement years.  The lovely landscaped grounds constantly cheer the residents.  Mass is celebrated daily in St. Paul's large chapel.  Various activities are provided for the enjoyment of the residents.

St. Benedict encouraged his followers to "reverence the seniors" and the sisters and lay staff faithfully obey this injunction through their ministry at the hermitage.  All residents are to be served in a spirit of love, kindness, gentleness and patience.  This loving service proclaims God's special care for the elderly.

St. Paul Hermitage offers apartments, residential living and twenty-four hour intermediate nursing care for the elderly.  It is licensed and certified by 5the State of Indiana.