A prepared space of work and prayer, focused on family and rooted in Catholic tradition and liturgy

“It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of the plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” Mark 4:31-32

Housed in the old St. John the Evangelist rectory in Warrenton, Virginia, The Laetare Center is a haven of tradition and community for families. Founded by Jenny Luetkemeyer, a Catechesis of the Good Shepherd catechist and Montessori guide, The Laetare Center provides both faith formation and academic offerings to children ages 3-6.

Serving the children of our community since 2022

  • Get on our waiting list.

    Due to limited space, our sessions for the 2023-2024 are currently full. We plan to expand our offerings in the future, God-willing! Please fill out our form if you would be interested in hearing more.

  • Give.

    The Laetare Center is a small operation with a mission to further the Kingdom. If you would like to help us support local families, we would be humbled and grateful for donations of any amount.

  • See where we're going!

    We have big dreams for the future. We would like to expand The Laetare Center to serve children of all ages and adults, too. “With men, this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

R E M A I N…

…where you already are. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit.” (John 15:1-2)

At the Laetare Center, we believe that the family is the heart of growth and life. All of our educational offerings are intended to support the primary formation happening in the home.

R E C L A I M…

…your identity as a beloved child of God. “I have called you by name: you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)

Using the principles of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, the focus of our Center, first and foremost, is on fostering a relationship between the Lord and His children. The retreat-like setting and pace of the Atrium provides a place of peace and solace where the mysteries of the Kingdom can be pondered and enjoyed.

R E J O I C E…

…in God and in His glory! ““Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3-4).

When the young child is presented with a parable or infancy narrative, the most common response is joy and gratitude. We are striving to build a community of followers who are purposeful in their choices to slow down, to wonder, and to delight alongside the littlest ones.