DOVER -- The Dominican Fathers Province of St. Joseph announced July 13 that they have reached an agreement in principle to sell St. Stephen Priory to Boston College.

St. Stephen Priory is a 78.5-acre property situated on the Charles River in Dover. The property includes buildings totaling 68,792 square feet, comprised of the priory, Siena House and auxiliary buildings. Acquired by the Dominican Fathers in 1951, the priory will continue to operate as a religious retreat facility until its closing in September 2004.

Boston College is acquiring the property for use as a retreat and conference center.

"Although there is a certain sense of sadness in leaving St. Stephen, the Province is delighted that its sacred mission and identity will be maintained and continued through Boston College. We pray that the students, faculty and affiliates of Boston College experience the same peace and serenity as the Dominicans of the Province of St. Joseph have for over 50 years," said Father Dominic Izzo, OP, provincial of the Province of St. Joseph.

"St. Stephen Priory has been a place of prayer and spiritual renewal for decades and it will be a much-welcomed retreat/conference center for our students, faculty, staff and alumni," said Father William P. Leahy, SJ, president of Boston College. "I am grateful that Father Izzo and the Dominicans have chosen to sell this property to Boston College."