Celebrating National Catholic Sisters Week 

 

   On Wednesday, March 13, the Motherhouse Sisters gathered in the conference room to celebrate themselves! It was a joyful, spirited gathering with refreshments, raffles, viewing of the movie "Missions of Hope", and a closing prayer service.

   The movie was produced by the National Catholic Sisters Office, and attempted to capture the diversity of religious life in the United States. The focus of diversity was not only on race and ethnicity, but also ministries and charisms. It was outstanding, as was our time together!

   Lest we forget to mention, our new commercial popcorn maker (like the ones in the movie theaters) was initiated. We will get good use out of this "new toy" at assemblies, Chapters, and other large group meetings!

   On Wednesday, March 20, members of the Congregational Leadership; Congregational Treasurer, Chris J Treichel; Regional Minister of Brazil, Marinêz Arantes da Silva; Brazil Region Treasurer, Stella Sabina Cunha; Jamaica Local Minister, Teresita DeSouza; and Jamaica Administrator, Trinita Solnek met with the Members of the Board and Staff of Allegany Franciscan Ministries (AFM).

   Eileen Coogan, AFM President & CEO, described this gathering as a marvelous exchange and interaction with the sisters. Eileen further commented that it was a wonderful opportunity and a privilege to share with and learn from the sisters, and to be reminded of how closely connected AFM is with them in mission and ministry.

   Daniel Gibson, Miami-Dade Regional Vice-President, posted about the meeting on social media - I think speaking for all of us on the staff team: "Knowing that my work is an extension of the prayers, sacrifices, and services offered for over a century by these loving, courageous and funny women is beyond overwhelming. The sisters offered their prayers, endorsed our work to carry on their legacy, and avowed their unequivocal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion of all members in our community - no person or group overlooked or forgotten. So humbled by my association with these phenomenal women."

   Read more about AFM at http://afmfl.org/

By: Lucy Cardet OSF

 

   Once again Franciscan religious gathered for the Inter-Franciscan Formation Program at the Spiritual Life Center of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement (Graymoor) in Garrison, NY. Sr. Liz Schumacher and I joined 60+ women and men in initial formation and their formation ministers for this collaborative program/retreat. Given the number of participants that come from a Spanish-speaking background, an effort is made to be inclusive in the communal prayer and group sharing. Robert Williams, OFM Cap, was the speaker (bilingual). The theme of his presentation was "Developing a Franciscan Imagination - Reading Our Sources with a Modern Medieval Mind". His presentations were informative and engaging, leading to deeper reflection and prayer. In addition to the sessions, the schedule of activities provided opportunities for silence, enjoying the beauty of the area, mutual support, and much good-natured humor.

   As usual, the Graymoor friars and staff made us feel welcome. This time we were addressed by their Minister General, Fr. Brian Terry, SA, who shared the friars' history, charism of unity and reconciliation, and various ministries, such as their live-in ministry with homeless and addicted men at nearby St. Christopher Inn. The cause for canonization of their founder, Fr. Paul Wattson, SA, has been promoted and they now anticipate receiving news of Vatican approval of his beatification. Read more at www.AtonementFriars.org.

   The Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement have their motherhouse on the adjacent property. During our time at Graymoor, they had the First Profession of two women from their mission in the Philippines. One sister is from China; the other is from the Philippines. Indeed a joyous celebration!

   We are grateful for our continued collaboration in this bi-annual Inter-Franciscan Formation Gathering. These days together are a reminder that we are called to be "one" and serve a diverse Church.

   Sr. Gladys Sharkey was presented with the Roy G. Harrell Jr. Leadership Award at the St. Anthony's Hospital Foundation's Legacy Celebration, February 28. 
   To be eligible for the Roy G. Harrell Jr. award, a nominee must demonstrate leadership through community service including civic, cultural, economic, charitable, recreational or educational; and one or more of the following attributes: vision, courage, initiative, motivation, selflessness, commitment, dependability, and accomplishment . 

. She holds a Bachelor's in nursing and a Master's in hospital administration and made her final profession as a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany in 1959.  
    Congratulations, Sr. Gladys! 

 

Expand Your Tent, Strangers No Longer

Saturday, April 27, 2019

9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Motherhouse

115 East Main Street

Allegany, NY 14770

Cost: $10, includes lunch.

Registration begins at 8:45 a.m.