From the Desk of Sister Julia
Dear Seeker,

Bear with me, but I'd like to begin this note by commenting on the weather. In Chicago, the temperature recently reached 97 degrees Fahrenheit (36 degrees Celsius), a record for early June. That day, I felt sluggish and warm as I worried about those who had no way to escape the heat. Climate change is much more serious than my discomfort on a hot day; harsh weather conditions are linked to violence and poverty, causing the greatest human migration in human history. Like many, I feel an urgency to respond, to care for those who are vulnerable and advocate for justice. When I am overwhelmed or worried, I choose to lean into my faith that every action has an impact. 

And I am glad I don't act alone. As a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, I am grateful to be part of a congregation that is centered on standing with all who are suffering in our Earth community. FSPA made a seven-year commitment to the Laudato Si' Action Platform, and this commitment influences our current mission. For example, on June 4, FSPA spoke out against Endbridge's Line 5 pipeline expansion in northern Wisconsin. There and elsewhere, FSPA responds to the cries of the earth and the cries of the poor. Our 175-year communal history reveals that our actions have a greater impact when we act together. Today, those who are discerning religious life are invited to contemplate how they can live in solidarity with the entire Earth community, and how their actions could have a greater positive impact when they're part of a community. What a sacred opportunity!

Peace & All Good,

Sister Julia Walsh
FSPA Rejects Line 5
FSPA was represented at the June 4 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public hearing regarding a forthcoming environmental assessment of Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline expansion. The hearing was held at Northwood Technical College in Ashland, Wisconsin.

Enbridge Energy is moving oil dangerously through northern Wisconsin every day illegally in trespass, violating the Bad River Band's sovereignty. Enbridge is trying to expand that pipeline and operate it for years to come, putting at risk the water, fish, plants, animals, humans and so much more, with the threat of an oil spill. Visit fspa.org to learn more about Line 5 and listen to the June 4 testimonies.
Sister Julia shares about FSPA
on Wisconsin Public Radio
"A Franciscan sister is someone who's out in the world, blending in, oftentimes wearing typical clothing — although simple and a little out of style." - Sister Julia Walsh

On June 6, Sister Julia Walsh was interviewed by Wisconsin Public Radio. Throughout the interview, Sister Julia discusses discerning religious life, the changing size and dynamic of religious life, the role of women in the Catholic Church and more.
An Overview of FSPA's Actions for the Earth
FSPA Integral Ecology Director, Beth Piggush, was invited to share FSPA's story during a webinar hosted by the Laudato Si' Action Platform, titled "Voices of Hope and Faith: Global Catholic Religious in the Heart of Climate Action."

During the webinar, Beth joined five panelists from around the world to discuss how they're using integral ecology practices to address environmental and social challenges. Click the image above to listen to Beth's portion of the discussion.
Upcoming Events for Discerning Women
Friday Virtual Adoration and Mass
Every Friday | 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. CT | online via Zoom

All are invited to join FSPA for virtual adoration live from the Adoration Chapel in La Crosse. Virtual adoration will pause at 11 a.m. and Mass will stream live from Mary of the Angels Chapel. Virtual adoration will resume after Mass.

Click here to access the Zoom link.
Mass and Lunch with Sister Julia
Monday, June 24 | St. Rose Convent, La Crosse, WI

All women discerning religious life are invited to join Sister Julia Walsh for Mass and lunch at the FSPA motherhouse in La Crosse. Email discerning@fspa.org for more information.
Into the Mystic: SoulCollage
Saturday, June 29 | 1 - 4:30 p.m. CT
Franciscan Spirituality Center, La Crosse, WI

This process involves using images from magazines, recycled art books and other sources to create a personal deck of collaged cards that speaks to your soul. It's a very mystical process, bringing insight and self-connection.

Visit fscenter.org for more information and to register by June 24!
Organ Concert
Sunday, June 30 | 2-3 p.m. CT | Mary of the Angels Chapel, La Crosse, WI

All are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of music as Dennis Siebenalar, a former student of Sisters Rosemary Desmond and Mary Ann Gschwind, takes center stage for a captivating organ concert in Mary of the Angels Chapel. Visit fspa.org for more information.
Vacation with a Purpose: What Surface Can I Watercolor On?
Monday, July 1 - Friday, July 5 | 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. CT
Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center, Arbor Vitae, WI

The surface you apply your watercolor on depends on the results you want. Each day, we will explore a different surface that watercolor can be applied to and identify the pros and cons of each.

Visit marywoodsc.org for more information and to register!
Coffee and Chat with Sister Julia
Sunday, July 7 (afternoon) | Chicago, IL

All women discerning religious life are invited to join Sister Julia Walsh for coffee and friendly conversation in Chicago. Email discerning@fspa.org for more information, including time and specific location.
On the Cusp of Change: Preparing for the Journey
Tuesday, July 9 | 7 - 8:30 p.m. CT | online via Zoom

This yearlong series of twelve stand-alone online programs and three in-person retreats takes a deeper dive into Karen Hering's book "Trusting Change," exploring how to engage our memory and imagination when encountering the uncertainties of the present day.

Visit prairiewoods.org for more information and to register by July 8!
Meditation for Emotional Health
Thursday, July 11 | 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. CT | online via Zoom

Meditation is proven to reduce stress and promote relaxation. All are welcome to join us for a time of rejuvenation. We'll start with a guided meditation that includes relaxed breathing, a body scan and a visualization. Afterward, we will have a brief discussion.

Visit fscenter.org for more information and to register by July 9!
Coffee and Chat with Sister Julia
Sunday, July 14 | Omaha, NE

All women discerning religious life are invited to join Sister Julia Walsh for coffee and friendly conversation in Omaha. Email discerning@fspa.org for more information, including time and specific location.
Bridges to Contemplative Living with Thomas Merton
Thursday, July 18 | 7 - 8:30 p.m. CT | online via Zoom

Facilitator Carole Butz will guide us to explore the truths of human existence using the "Bridges to Contemplative Living" series, which includes excerpts from the writings of Thomas Merton and other authors. The process involves readings, reflections and contemplative dialogue.

Visit prairiewoods.org for more information and to register by July 17!
National Eucharistic Congress
Friday, July 19 - Saturday, July 20 | Indianapolis, IN

Will you be attending the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis? If so, make sure to email discerning@fspa.org to schedule a time to meet up with Sister Julia Walsh and learn more about FSPA!
Coffee and Chat with Sister Julia
Tuesday, July 30 | Milwaukee, WI

All women discerning religious life are invited to join Sister Julia Walsh for coffee and friendly conversation in Milwaukee. Email discerning@fspa.org for more information, including time and specific location.
Day of Self Renewal
Thursday, Aug. 1 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. CT
Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center, Hiawatha, IA

This tranquil day features your choice of two services, group guided meditation, Healing Sound Bath & Yogic Sleep, a private guest room, a fresh lunch and access to the labyrinth and all that Prairiewoods has to offer.

Visit prairiewoods.org for more information and to register by July 24!
Honoring Perpetual Adoration
Thursday, Aug. 1 | Mass at 11 a.m. CT
Mary of the Angels Chapel, La Crosse, WI and online via Zoom

Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration has been a cherished practice of FSPA since August 1, 1878 — hence our name: Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. Let's come together in gratitude as we honor 146 years of continuous prayer, seeking God's presence for the well-being of our community and beyond.

Visit fspa.org for more information. No registration required.
Navigating Transitions: A Path to Reset & Renew Retreat
Friday, Aug. 2, 6:30 p.m. CT - Saturday, Aug. 3, 3 p.m. CT

Are you currently facing a transition, either big or small? In this overnight retreat at Prairiewoods, you'll be treated to a path forward that will help you reset and renew as you navigate your transition.

Visit prairiewoods.org for more information and to register by July 29!
Paper Bowls
Monday, Aug. 12 - Tuesday, Aug. 13 | 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. CT
Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center, Arbor Vitae, WI

All are invited to join us for this two-day workshop. On Monday morning, participants will create colored sheets of paper using fluid acrylics, watercolors and inks. In the afternoon, we will take the transformed papers and create a three-dimensional paper bowl. The bowls will be completed Tuesday morning.

Visit marywoodsc.org for more information and to register by Aug. 5!
Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration | Formation | 888-683-3772 | discerning@fspa.org