By: Teresita DeSouza, OSF

 

   On September 13th, 2014, the Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel was beautifully decorated with orchids, and other beautiful specimens of creation as family members, friends and sisters gathered to celebrate Sister Clare Marie's 60th anniversary of faithful service to the mission of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany. 

   Sister was wheeled into Chapel to the resounding Gathering Hymn of invitation to "Lift Up Your Hearts To the Lord..."  and despite her frailty, it was obvious that she was aware of the joyous celebrative occasion. It was indeed fitting and appropriate that Fr. Ho Lung's song of abandonment was sung at the offertory. Indeed, Clare's life is one of abandonment as she receives God's love and grace as all she needs.

   Many family members were unable to be present, but the sentiments they expressed in the written word spoke of the high regard in which they hold Sister.

   Sister Clare Marie is pictured with her sisters, Angella and Carmencita.

   We thank God for Sister Clare Marie, and continue to echo the words of the sending Hymn "To God Be the Glory"

By: Pat Klemm, OSF

 

   The newly formed congregational committee on Franciscan Spirituality met in Tampa September 2-5. The committee made the following statement of purpose:  

 

 

We, the Franciscan Spirituality Committee, commit ourselves to deepen our understanding of Gospel living. We believe that Franciscan Spirituality has the power to energize all who seek to satisfy the deepest desires of the human heart. We will draw on personal and communal resources to act as catalysts for ourselves and others, creating opportunities for continued growth as we journey together.

 

   One way we agreed to do this immediately is through a Peace Prayer Initiative in conjunction with what the sisters, associates and partners in Jamaica are already doing. All are invited to join in prayer at noon every Wednesday to pray for peace.      A bookmark with this invitation is being created in three languages. It will be widely distributed and will include the Congregational logo, the Peace prayer of St. Francis, and contact  information for our houses of prayer and our vocation ministry.

November 29th  is the 35th anniversary of the day that Pope John Paul II declared St. Francis of Assisi as the patron of those who promote the ecology. This is not the same as putting Francis in the birdbath or seeing him solely as an animal lover. It is based on his insight that Francis was able to see all of creation as his sister and brother. 

   As the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany's committee on Franciscan Spirituality, we encourage everyone to observe this anniversary by taking one or more of the following actions:

• Reflect prayerfully alone or in groups on the call to care for those who are poor through care for creation.
• Go to www.francis35.org  for more information and ways to celebrate the anniversary.
• Sign the St. Francis Pledge at www.catholicclimatecovenant.org.
• Take the time and make the effort to care for the earth by reducing, reusing, and recycling.
• Educate yourself and others by taking advantage of resources like the websites of Catholic Climate Covenant, FAN and the USCCB
• Share what you are doing with our sisters and associates by emailing your insights and actions to spirituality@fsallegany.org

   Another vehicle for sharing our Franciscan spirituality is through the various forms of electronic media, the FSA website, our Facebook page, and some new forms of communication. Watch for more information in the near future.

By: Margaret Mary Foley, OSF

 

   On Monday, September 8, 2014, I renewed my vows as a Temporary Professed sister.  It is also my 10th year anniversary of entering the Allegany Franciscans. 

   The renewals took place in the Franciscan Convent's Chapel, where I live, and were celebrated with local minister Sr. Nancy Christopher. 

 

   Editor's note:  Please join us in saying congratulations to Sr. Margaret Mary Foley!

 

A retreat for spiritual directors and those who companion others in the Franciscan Tradition. 

Offered by: The Franciscan Center

February 23-27, 2015

Guided by: Nancy Schreck, OSF

Cost: $475 before January 30, 2015

         $500 after January 30, 2015

For more information contact Karen Davies, (813) 229-2695 or email info@franciscancentertampa.org.