St. Columban Center, Derby (Patrick McPartland)

Bishop Richard J. Malone, bishop of Buffalo, has approved a recommendation that the Diocese of Buffalo sell the St. Columban Center, which is located along the shores of Lake Erie in Derby.

The property is listed at $1.9 million.

"We review diocesan operations and assets on a regular basis," Bishop Malone said, "and we have determined that now is the time to put the Columban Center on the market."

Located on Lake Shore Road, the Columban Center has been the diocesan retreat center for decades, hosting individual and directed retreats and other events for thousands, young and old. In 2010, Christ the King Seminary expanded its offering of retreats to the Derby facility. 

While the primary mission of the Seminary is the education and formation of the candidates for the priestly, diaconate, and lay ecclesial ministry, the seminary also sees its mission as serving as a pastoral center for our diocese. In keeping with this fuller vision, the seminary will continue to accommodate diocesan wide retreats, days of prayer and spiritual conferences. Therefore, services provided by the Columban Center will be incorporated into the Christ the King Seminary Campus.

At nearly 27,000 square feet, the Georgian mansion was known as Suncliff Manor. It was built in 1914 as a summer residence for the Hans Schmidt Family. Schmidt was well known for his leather tanning business in Buffalo. The 15.3 acre property was purchased in 1947 by the diocese, through the support of the St. Columban Retreat League. An addition was completed in 1959.

For more information on purchasing the Columban Center, contact the Diocese of Buffalo, Office of Buildings & Properties, 716-847-8750.