Bed-and-breakfast in former convent a place for quiet reflection

Published: 2004-05-25

STEINAUER, Neb. (CNS) -- St. Anthony Parish in Steinauer faced the same dilemma that many parishes did in the 1970s and 1980s -- what to do with buildings that once housed Catholic schools and convents. The buildings were too nice to let deteriorate. The brick convent and school were built in 1932 to replace buildings destroyed in a fire. Both buildings featured ornate windows and wood floors. But through the generosity of an anonymous donor and the elbow grease of several parishioners, the former Catholic school and convent have been transformed into the Convent House Bed and Breakfast, a peaceful getaway and an asset to the town of about 75 inhabitants. "The school and convent were just sitting idle and not being used for anything," said Marjorie Wenzl. She along with Marilyn Wenzl and Erma Gyhra came up with the idea of a bed-and-breakfast, and the three donated their time to renovate the building and run the business. Marjorie and Marilyn Wenzl are distantly related through their husbands.

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