Congregational E-News ~ Nov. 15, 2017
|
|
I've often remarked on the beauty of winter trees and received some strange looks of disbelief! We tend to smile graciously at the newly budding trees of spring, bask in the shade of summer's lush green tree, and gasp in awe at the brilliant blends of autumn leaves. But in winter we are gifted with the innate structures and shapes of "treeness"---that which makes the tree a tree. And for that gift of "treeness," we say "Thank you, God!"
|
Winter is tree season.
Trunk, limbs and branches
no longer hidden by lush green
or autumn glory now piles of brown decay.
Sturdy trunks hold curved stretching limbs;
Branches weave intricate designs;
stark black beauty
etched against gold and purple sunsets.
Stripping is needed
before sap and seed
stir new life.
Sr. Marie Lucey, OSF
|
#Giving Tuesday - November 28, 2017
Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples and the disciples gave them to the people... The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.
(Matt 14:13-21)
St. Francis Inn of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Emmanuel Dining Room of Wilmington, Delaware, epitomize Jesus' act of love and compassion. Every day, 365 days a year, these two organizations feed those who are homeless or lacking the means to provide their own meals---but they can't do it alone!
Helping to fulfill the mission of these two organizations are two Sisters of St. Francis. Sr. Leslie Birks works at St. Francis Inn while Sr. Kathleen O'Donnell works at Emmanuel Dining Room. The Sisters of St. Francis' mission calls for a response to the needs of others, especially the economically poor, the marginal, and the oppressed.
Feed the 5,000 this Giving Tuesday by donating to these two ministries. Click here on or before Tuesday, November 28, to give to this great cause!
|
Christmas Inserts Available Now
|
|
 |
| Front |
|
Gift giving at Christmas provides us with an opportunity to tell our friends and loved ones that we care about them. But finding the right gift isn't always easy.
Why not a gift of a Novena of Masses? The Sisters of St. Francis' annual Christmas Insert not only shares a beautiful card and sentiment, but also gives the blessings of a Novena of Masses offered during the Christmas season. The first display of the Christ Child in the crèche as instituted by St. Francis of Assisi is the theme of this year's insert.
The inserts are packaged 10 per pack for $7, including shipping and handling. Use the form below to place your order. Order early. Last year we ran out!
Click here to order!
|
The purpose of the
Good News is to further the Gospel mission of the sisters by sharing the good news of the congregation with our friends, family, companions, and sisters. Through this publication we share the charism of the congregation and invite others to become involved in our mission.
Good News
is published three times a year (spring, summer, winter) by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. We welcome your feedback.
Winter 2017 Edition
Franciscan Volunteers: Committing a Year to Service:
The Franciscan Volunteers: No Risk, No Gain program invites lay women and men to commit to a year of service sharing in the charism and mission of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. For Rachel, Mandee, and Theresa the year turned out to be a fruitful, rewarding time infused with the Franciscan Spirit.
READ
The School of Applied Theology: A Holistic Approach to Rest, Contemplation, and Prayer: Sister Celeste Crine spends her days at the School of Applied Theology guiding prayer and retreat experiences, planning liturgies, facilitating reflections, teaching classes on Tai Chi and journaling, and providing a welcoming atmosphere to all who come. Many who come are seeking attentive rest, theological renewal, and spiritual transformation.
READ
|
|
