During this fall's regional assembly, the sisters attending the Allegany gathering were welcomed into the newly renovated meeting room. For many, it was the first time they had been in the room, which features widescreen televisions, a large LCD projector, and a hearing loop, as well as a mounted camera for live-streaming throughout the Motherhouse. 

   The room had only been used for one other large gathering since its completion, that being the Associate Anniversary Celebration in late July. Since then, congregational leadership, assisted by sisters and staff, have worked to improve on the multimedia technology to ensure smooth operation and a positive experience for those attending, both in-person and via in-house television.  

   Throughout a weekend filled with spiritual reflection and shared experiences, sisters and employees shared their joy about the new facility. Sisters watching the assembly via live-stream were able to hear all that was said, and those gathered in the room itself were able to see the presentations and videos regardless of their location within the space. 

   As with the assembly in New Jersey the weekend of October 11, and the Tampa assembly the weekend of October 25, presentations were given on how the Chapter 2012 initiatives are moving forward; saw a video and heard testimony on the Associate Anniversary Celebration; were given an update from the most recent LCWR Assembly and the Dare to Image project of the Franciscan Federation; got a quick lesson on using Facebook and the importance of social media and communication; received input on the Franciscan Spirituality Committee's current initiatives; and listened and witnessed to the human stories and experiences of persons who have suffered and survived the pains of human trafficking, unjust immigration policies, poverty, and the drug culture. Time for reverent silence was held for those courageous people. 

   At the end of the weekend, those in attendance expressed their gratitude for the new meeting space, which is located in the old auditorium and serves a number of functions. The plan is to hold Chapter 2016 in the space. 

By: Denise Bunk-Hatch, communications director

   The St. Elizabeth Mission Society and the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation are moving forward into a new era together.

   On October 6, Laura Whitford - the president of the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation since 2012 - took the helm as the president of both the Renodin Foundation and the St. Elizabeth Mission Society.

   Laura has been involved with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany since she began serving on the Renodin Foundation board of directors in 2005. She says, "I had really hoped and actually prayed for an opportunity to work with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany."

   That opportunity came when Sr. Chris Doherty, who had served as president of the St. Elizabeth Mission Society since 2009, made the decision to retire as of September 30, after completing almost two terms in the position.

Laura, who was involved in communications and development at the local YMCA for 15 years, brings a wealth of experience in philanthropy, board development and engagement, and event management to the position.

   "I did feel a calling to work more for the sisters," Laura said.

   The boards of both the St. Elizabeth Mission Society and the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation came together with congregational leadership, sisters, and friends of the organizations to bid farewell to Sr. Chris and welcome Laura during an evening social gathering on Wednesday, October 15. Sisters from each of the four countries served by the congregation sent their thanks and well wishes to Sr. Chris, and encouragement and cordial greetings were given to Laura.

   Laura says she hopes to be able to increase community awareness of both organizations, and to help integrate the work of the sisters further into the local community, while investigating alternative funding sources such as grants and planned giving. "It will be an interesting and exciting challenge," she said.

   Sr. Chris is hoping to find time to return to painting. "As an artist, I want to continue my creative expression through visual media and my spirituality," she noted. 

 

Submitted by: Margaret Mary Foley, OSF

   I wanted to share with you that this morning at ministry during a Customer Service training, I was awarded the leader of Customer Service amongst the Thrift Store Team.  My supervisor said I received the most positive comments from my coworkers and customers!  She said she was proud of me.  One of my  co-workers added that I'm always smiling.  The award was in a form of a gift certificate.    

  Editor's note: Sr. Margaret Mary Foley is employed with Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa, FL. 

 The Franciscan Center will be holding its first annual First Responders' Golf Classic on Monday, November 10, at the Carrollwood Country Club, Tampa, FL.

  The Golf Classic is a meaningful way to give back to our law enforcement officers and fire fighters. All proceeds from the golf classic benefit Post Trauma Training Programs, which are held throughout the year at the Franciscan Center.

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. 

 

November 19 - Second November edition e-newsletter