Consider Roadside Chats Important
Posted on October 30, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World, Vocations / Discernment | 6 Comments
The personal journey of trying to figure out God’s will often takes various twists and turns on the road of life. This is equally true for those who seek to companion others in the process of vocation discernment. For the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Vocation Team this takes on literal meaning as road trips are planned to make initial contact with young women who send on-line inquiry forms, call for more information or sign up for a weekend retreat.
With the November 13-15, 2009 Discernment Weekend coming soon, Sisters Mary Ann Spanjers, OSF and Sister Julie Ann Sheahan, OSF are serious about arranging airport pick ups and made recent roadside stops at:
- Emy J’s in Stevens Point, WI
- University of Wisconsin Stevens Point
- Starbucks in West Bend, WI
- Aroma Coffee Bar in Dubuque, IA
- Loras College in Dubuque, IA
- Perkins in Madison, WI
Also important to making an eventual discernment weekend a comfortable experience for all involved, are:
- long (and short) distance phone conversations
- facebook interactions
- emails
- blogging
If you know our Sisters, just recently found our website and like what you find here on Franciscanized World, we welcome you or someone you love thinking about religious life to our November Retreat Weekend. Not only will you meet some other wonderful retreatants, but we guarantee that you will learn much more about the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity.
The World Needs You. God Calls You. We Invite You.
Find Catholic Education Excellence at St. Anthony High School
Posted on October 29, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 50 Comments
Among some Catholic populations, St. Anthony and urgent pleas of discovering lost items go hand in hand every day. Historically, however, St. Anthony is remembered as a powerful preacher and teacher.
“I ask that if you find anything edifying, anything consoling, anything well presented, that you give all praise, all glory and all honor to the Blessed Son of God Jesus Christ. If on the other hand, you find anything that is ill composed, uninteresting or not to well explained, you impute and attribute it to my weakness, blindness, and lack of skill.”
While invited on October 29, 2009, to St. Anthony High School, Milwaukee, WI for a vocation awareness presentation, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity were impressed with parents devoted to this Franciscan patron who are actively seeking and sacrificing for excellence in Catholic education for their children. A friendly place of learning, Principal Romas Cruz was also at the front door to introduce himself.
Here are some findings about St. Anthony High School:
- The school was approved to be established in February, 2009 by Archbishop Timothy Dolan and began classes on August 31, 2009.
- The school has an enrollment of 112 students.
- A building just north of W. Mitchell St. on S. 9th St. in Milwaukee houses the high school.
- The school is the first new Catholic high school in the Milwaukee archdiocese in more than 25 years.
- It is the first Catholic high school to operate on the south side and within the boundaries of the city of Milwaukee since St. Mary’s Academy closed in 1991.
- Parents who live on the south side of Milwaukee are able to choose a high school with easy transportation and where they can take advantage of the school voucher program
Father Hilary Brzezinski, OFM, pastor of St.Anthony Parish, also welcomed the Franciscan Sisters and Father John Puodziunas, OFM, another Franciscan Friar of the Assumption Province, who joined the Sisters in interacting with the ninth grade students during their normally scheduled religion class.
What does St. Anthony High School mean to students?
Focus on Immigration Now and 140 Years Ago
Posted on October 24, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 6 Comments
Immigration is not something confined to one period of history.
On Saturday, October 23, 2009, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity and other religious gathered for a conversation on immigration reform at Silver Lake College’s Generose Enrichment Center, Manitowoc, WI.
Later on the same day, the Franciscan Sisters joined the Catholic communities of St. Mary, Clarks Mills, WI and St. Michael, Whitelaw, WI, to celebrate Eucharist and dedicate a St. Francis Statue at a site where young immigrant women over 140 years ago lived together in the first convent of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity.
Immigration Presentation
Franciscan Federation’s Region IV representatives planned the Saturday Immigration education session. Voces de la Frantera, a Wisconsin nonprofit that educates workers about their employment rights and organizes to protect and improve the quality of life for low-wage 
and immigrant workers, was invited to present on ‘Immigration-Pilgrims and Strangers, The New Sanctuary Movement’. Bill and Joanne Lange, along with Jill Vonnahme represented the organization, while two other speakers shared how their lives were affected by the need for immigration to the United States. Sister Lorita Gafney, OSF and Sister Kathyrn Klackner, OSF were the on site organizers.
Commemoration of Franciscan Sisters’ Founding in 1869
Bishop David Richen, Bishop of Diocese of Green Bay, and Father David Zimmerman presided at the festive 4 p.m. Eucharistic liturgy and special blessing which included many Franciscan Sisters, parish members and the Knights of Columbus. Deacon Tom Koch organized the celebration that included liturgical music by ‘The Living Spirits’ and a delicious social in the school hall.
Historically, young women bearing the family names of Gramlich, Fessler, Wahl and Thoenig were received into the novitiate on November 9, 1869 and later became professed members of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity. One year later, two other newcomers to the United States with last names of Stich and Doyle were received as novices. The Franciscan Sisters are grateful to all the families that have supported them throughout the years, especially Jeanette and Earl Silva who donated the St. Francis Statue in memory of her parents Charles and Margaret McCulley, relatives of Sister Margaret Ann Wallander, OSF.
How have you been affected by immigration?
Present ‘Eucharist From Adoration to Action’
Posted on October 18, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 6 Comments
Can you visualize yourself selecting a presentation entitled Eucharist From Adoration to Action for an October, 17, 2009, Saturday afternoon time slot at an Archdiocesan event? Invited to speak in the Chicago Festival of Faith’s young adult ministry track, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sister Sara Hale, OSF, (serving on the southside of Chicago in Angels Outreach) Sister Mary Ann Spanjers, OSF and Sister Julie Ann Sheahan, OSF, shared:
- some of the writings of St. Francis and St. Clare and their love of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Eucharist
- provided moments of reflection, participation and integration using music, stories, Catholic Eucharistic instruction and questions
- invited participants to do some outreach in the context of our lives today.
St. Francis’ Letter to the Entire Order, among other writings, was highlighted:
Let everyone be struck with fear, let the whole world tremble, and let the heavens exult when Christ, the Son of the living God, is present on the altar in the hands of a priest! O wonderful loftiness and stupendous dignity! O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! The Lord of the universe, God and the Son of God, so humbles Himself that for our salvation He hides Himself under an ordinary piece of bread! Brothers, look at the humility of God, and pour out your hearts before Him! Humble yourselves that you may be exalted by Him! Humble yourselves that you may be exalted by Him! Hold back nothing of yourselves for yourselves that He Who gives Himself totally to you may receive you totally!
Two comments from participants:
” I need to move in service”.
“Be Christ to others through our acts.”
The Franciscan Sisters were assisted by Mark Kolter, Kolter Creative, in immersing participants into the reality of ‘Adoration and Action’ and in providing virtual contributions by Father Michael Ignaszak, pastor of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s Tri-Parishes of Sts. Alexander,Helen and John Kanty in Milwaukee and the Cistercian Nuns of Our Lady of the Valley Monastery, Prairie du Sac WI.
Note: past students of St. Willebrord who are now teachers in Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese introduced themselves.
Any comments?
What UW Whitewater Students Make a Priority
Posted on October 14, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 10 Comments
Ever wonder just what university students hold important? Here’s what the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sister Mary Ann Spanjers,OSF, and Sister Julie Ann Sheahan, OSF, eye-witnessed as they facilitated a Busy Persons Retreat at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater’s campus October 11-14, 2009:
- a sizeable community of students gathered at 7:30 a.m. for a half-hour prayer and faith sharing. Some grabbed coffee before or after the session. Others went caffeine free. All enjoyed not only feeding their souls, but standing around to enjoy a continental breakfast (including cold pizza) before taking off to class, returning to studies or jobs.
- another group of students paused at mid-day to focus on God and take part in deeper conversations on the spiritual life while getting bodily fortified for the afternoon.
- yet another band of scholars gathered after an evening meal for all retreatants to also gain knowledge of God and the beauty of the Catholic sacramental life.
- a still later retreat night sharing drew a repeat crowd of students from all three sessions.
Special thanks to Brian Zanin, Catholic Campus Minister at UWW, who organized the details of the days, Father John Puodziunas,OFM, Franciscan Friar of the Assumption Province, who assisted with the Sunday Eucharist and Monday night Sacrament of Reconciliation, as well as Father Michael Ignaszak, pastor of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s Tri-Parishes of Sts. Alexander,Helen and John Kanty in Milwaukee and the Cistercian Nuns of Our Lady of the Valley Monastery, Prairie du Sac WI, for their virtual contributions.
Any comments?
Celebrate ‘Franciscan Servants of God: Reflections from 25 Years of Service
Posted on October 10, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 9 Comments
Whether flying, driving or walking to the Motherhouse for the Sisters’ Health Care Assembly October 10-11, 2009, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity involved in the congregation’s sponsored health care 
ministry, not only enjoyed creation’s colorful fall artistry on the way, but some excellent speakers and sharing at their final destination. This year’s focus was Franciscans Servants of God: Reflections from 25 Years of Service.
Presentations on Saturday included 25 year perspectives from both the System’s healthcare ministry and Sisters involved in the health care of our Sisters.
Scott McConnaha and Sister Laura Wolf, OSF addressed health reform and its implications.
Sister Mary Kaye Winkler, OSF spoke about changes in St. Rita’s Health Care Center.
Sister Caritas Strodhoff, OSF reviewed the history of the congregation’s own Sisters’ health clinic. 
Father Joel Szydlowski, OFM, chaplain at Holy Family Memorial, Manitowoc, WI, presided at the mid-day Eucharist and preached on a reading from the prophet Joel and the importance of mission.
On Sunday, Sister Louise Hembrecht, OSF, Community Director, will direct attention to St. Francis’ role of service. Time for personal prayer, group sharing and a prayer ritual will provide an uplifting conclusion to an amazing journey together.
Saints Inspire Artistic Expression and Reassurance
Posted on October 5, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 12 Comments
Still in a festive mood from the Francisan Feast of St. Francis, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity are very aware of the companionship and consolation of so many saints in our daily lives. In addition to our blessed company of heavenly Franciscans, many others inspire thoughtfulness.
Stephen Whatley from London writes:
I managed spontaneously to create a drawing to pay tribute to Saint Faustina; who passed into Heaven on this day in 1938. Not all Masses commemorate her life or Divine Mercy, which is sad- as my knowledge of this wonderful lady and her communion with Jesus through her great Diary, is a gift in my life. I couldn’t leave the day unmarked without trying to make an artistic statement…
I thought then that I wanted to share this charcoal drawing with you all (it was partly inspired by a 1929 photo of Sister Faustina)- it is dark here so I had to use a flash to photograph this piece…I hope you will feel her through my drawing. I may take a better photograph- but at least you will see it on this day. (photo: Stephen Whatley, Saint Faustina, October 5, 2009)
Do join our on-line Discipleship in the Life of Francis, Clare, and You retreat by clicking here.
What writings, photos, personal information about the canonized saints or souls intimately admired personally inspire you?
Why the Transitus of St. Francis is Vital to Commemorate
Posted on October 3, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World | 7 Comments
This year on October 3, 2009 as well as every year on the vigil of the Feast of St. Francis, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity along with the entire Franciscan Family gather to celebrate the Transitus of St. Francis. This devotion ritually remembers Francis’ passing from this life into God. It is a ritual that has survived three decades.
Fr. Daniel Grigassey, OFM writes:” the Transitus has become a significant and even necessary annual event. To ritually revisit the story of Francis’ passing is vital; without it something significant is missing. It specifies the living memory of Francis; it intensifies our commitment to follow Christ in the way of the poor man of Assisi.”
This year marks the first time that chaplain Fr. Finian Zauch, OFM, celebrated the Franciscan ritual at the Motherhouse in Manitowoc. A member of the Franciscan Friars of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Province, Father Finian arrived in Manitowoc in mid-September after serving in numerous administrative posts including Provincial Librarian, Archivist, Principal of St. Bonaventure High School, substitute chaplain, teacher of religious education to both elementary and high school students and assisting in Byzantine parishes.
At 4 p.m. on October 3, Postulants, Novices and some professed Sisters also led music for the Saturday evening Eucharist at Holy Cross Parish, Mishicot, WI. Father Paul Paider, pastor, and parish members welcomed the music troupe on the vigil of St. Francis and united their voices in song during the liturgy. This Franciscan vocation ministry of presence and music outreach in parishes begins its fifth year.
How did you celebrate the feast of St. Francis?
Listen to ‘Wanderer’s Paean’ by Kim Beggs
Posted on October 1, 2009
Filed Under Song of the Month | 33 Comments
While celebrating saintly itinerant Francis of Assisi during the month of October, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity invite you to immerse yourself in Kim Beggs‘ culturally rich Yukon ballad ‘Wanderer’s Paean’.
A few words from Kim about the song Wanderer’s Paean:
“When I was young, I traveled far from home and loved ones, guided by the wandering spirit song. This wanderer’s paean, sang through my blood until I was embraced by strangers and made a new home. My home is now the Yukon, Canada.”
Biography
Whitehorse, Yukon may be a long way from the American south, but it’s notable for the same sort of hardscrabble lifestyle and unshakable sense of community that influenced early Appalachian music over a century ago.
It was that very sense of community that prompted Toronto transplant Kim Beggs to make her home there almost 18 years ago, and it’s that same sense of banding together in the face of adversity that has inspired her distinctive “sweet dark” old-time tinged roots music - a style that draws inspiration from old country and bluegrass, but which is unmistakably influenced by the expansiveness and desolation of the North.
Combining delightful acoustic arrangements with a voice that’s been described by Acoustic Live in NYC as a “cross between Nanci Griffith and Iris DeMent” Beggs reflects on the journey through life and death, the wanderer’s spirit and the loss of loved ones. Closer to home, she sings of the destruction of the Whitehorse shipyards and the struggles of a family member with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Yet for all the allusions to tragedy, the songs never sound “heavy” thanks to Beggs’ uplifting melodies. On her sophomore CD, Wanderer’s Paean, a who’s who of fine acoustic players fleshes out the delightful old-time sound. They include Handy Award-winning bluesman Rick Fines on guitar, Shania Twain accompanist Burke Carroll on pedal steel, The Creaking Tree String Quartet’s John Showman on violin, and another Yukon starlet Kim Barlow on banjo.
Beggs’ sophomore album Wanderer’s Paean earned a 2007 Western Canadian Music Award for Outstanding Roots Recording and a 2007 Canadian Folk Music Award nomination for Best New/Emerging Artist. Rambles.net called it the “full-bodied, fully realized statement of a major artist.” Her song “Lips Stained Red with Wine” and “Walking Down to the Station” were winners in the International Songwriting Contest, and Beggs was booked to play Canada Day celebrations this year in London’s Trafalgar Square. While there, she also appeared on the BBC Radio program Bob Harris Country, listened to by over 14 million people.
Kim has sung this song, Wanderer’s Paean, on national public radio in Canada and the US. It has been played on the radio all over the world.
Her albums have been nominated for music awards in Canada and the US. If you like this song you might enjoy hearing her other songs. Visit Kim’s website. Both her albums, Wanderer’s Paean and Streetcar Heart are available in CD format as well as digital downloads from her website store. Her third album, Mama’s Dress, will be released in April, 2010.
Website: http://www.kimbeggs.com
Store: https://p10.secure.hostingprod.com/@www.kimbeggs.com/ssl/store/gc/
Lyrics:
One cup of tea in the morning for me
A kiss while you sleep
The sun rising up brings a tear to my eye
My heart tells me get along my way
I heard the train last night, whistle refrain
Hooo hooo hooo, wanderer’s paean
I heard the train last night, whistle refrain
Hooo hooo hooo, get along my way
I’m the one from my kin whose blood won’t stop burnin’
Wandering bones and skin
The saddle round my heart it cinches at night
When I start to thinkin’ I’m home
You shone your love in this stone that ain’t true
And my skies are heavy and blue
But with the clothes on my back,
grub and coins in my sack
My heart tells me get along my way
Hand clasping hand, pull me up from the tracks
By strangers won’t never look back
Boxcar my freedom, railroad my bath
Sundown by clickity clack
Discipleship in the Life of Francis, Clare, the Franciscan Sisters and You
Posted on October 1, 2009
Filed Under Franciscanized World, Image of the Month, Vocations / Discernment | 103 Comments
During the month of October Franciscanized World will be highlighting the call to discipleship of our Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, specifically Sister Pamela Biehl, OSF, as a parish director of the Catholic Communities of St. Mary Winneconne, WI, and St. Mary, Omro, WI and Sister Anne Marie Lom, OSF, as a spiritual director for both St. Raphael Parish, Oshkosh, WI and our own religious community.
Special Spiritual Feature
Sister Anne Marie invites you to join some Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity as they reflect on their annual retreat at the Community’s House of Prayer entitled: Discipleship in the Life of Francis, Clare and You. Read their thread of comments all month long and feel free to add your own reflections. Expect the retreat slideshow to change as all of creation goes through transformation.
Ready to begin? Read the sharing.
Recently
- Who is a Saintly Man of Action and Contemplation
- Name a Concert that was Soul-Inspiring
- Find Important Resource in Franciscans International
- Taking a Franciscan Grand Tour of Grand Rapids
- Now Is The Time…Franciscan On-Line Lenten Retreat Continues
- Download Rickie Lee Jones’ ‘His Jeweled Floor’
- Guess Who West Point, NE Awarded the Community Service Award
- How Often May I See Family
- How Did the Church Begin Hospital Ministry
- Now Is The Time: Franciscan On-line Lenten Retreat
Categories
Archives
- March 2010
- February 2010
- January 2010
- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- February 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
- August 2008
- July 2008
- June 2008
- May 2008
- April 2008
- March 2008
- February 2008
- January 2008
- December 2007
- November 2007
- October 2007