The Bishop DeFalco Retreat and Conference Center is a non-profit, religious, spiritual and educational facility owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Amarillo and dedicated to the personal and spiritual development of individuals and groups.
The Bishop DeFalco Retreat and Conference Center, through its staff and employees, provides an atmosphere conducive to personal and spiritual development, guides participants in the processes of spiritual renewal, welcomes sponsoring groups, and collaborates with their leaders in their goals of human development and spiritual renewal.
We welcome individuals of all faith expressions and not-for-profit educational, health, social service and civic organizations whose objectives are consistent with the mission and values of the Center and its non-profit status.
Bishop DeFalco was born Lawrence Michael DeFalco on August 25, 1915 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. The eldest of nine children, Lawrence learned to take charge at an early age.As he grew and developed, Lawrence became aware of a desire to serve the Lord in the priesthood. In 1933, at the age of 18, he entered ecclesiastical studies for the priesthood with the Diocese of Pittsburgh. This was during the Great Depression and times were formidable. Lawrence was not exempt from being challenged. In 1935 the Diocese of Pittsburgh was experiencing financial difficulties and had to let the aspiring seminarian go.
But, future Bishop DeFalco was determined to continue his studies and be ordained a priest. Lawrence found another seminary in Little Rock, Arkansas that was willing to take him. There he finished his studies and was finally ordained a priest of the Roman Catholic Church in 1942.
Although Lawrence was a Pennsylvanian by birth, he developed a deep appreciation for the Southwest and the Hispanic culture. This would serve him well when news arrived that he was to become bishop of the Diocese of Amarillo. On June 13, 1963, Rev. Lawrence was installed as Bishop of Amarillo.
Lawrence M. DeFalco had become the fifth bishop of this vast area. He was a spiritual man, quiet but empathetic. He was also considered a prudent and practical person. It has been said that his dark eyes looked straight into the mind and heart of others and his words were forthright. Although Bishop DeFalco seemed serious, his laughter was joyous when it appeared. He was also an ardent sports enthusiast, being an avid golfer and a great follower of the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers.When Bishop Lawrence assumed responsibility for the Church in the Texas Panhandle, the Second Vatican Council was still in session. Faithful to the spirit of this historic council, DeFalco was one of the first bishops to establish a Pastoral Council of Lay People. His care for the faithful entrusted to him went far beyond implementing the changes of Vatican II. Bishop DeFalco was tireless in the work of pasturing his flock. He traveled widely about the diocese, sometimes offering four Masses at different locations in a single weekend. Scarcely an invitation or meeting went unattended.
Sadly, Bishop DeFalco developed cancer that swiftly spread. He died on September 22, 1979 at the age of 64.
1 Timothy 3:2 reminds us that "A bishop must be irreproachable. . .of even temper, self-controlled, modest and hospitable. He should be a good teacher. . .gentle, a man of peace."Bishop Lawrence M. DeFalco lived up to this mandate.