From the Desk of Sister Julia
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Dear Seeker,
When we're searching for meaning, belonging and purpose, we may easily take a narrow view. We notice what is small and specific. We can become concerned about places and particular people. These matters can greatly influence our decisions, and it's valuable to consider all the data that we are offered, certainly. Yet, when one is discerning vowed religious life as a Catholic Sister, it helps to take in a wide view. Similar to membership in the Catholic Church, Catholic sisterhood is global. By their shared sisterhood, vowed religious sisters in the rural Midwestern United States are connected to Catholic Sisters in Rome, Cameroon and remote villages of Bolivia. There's a joyful camaraderie among us, an openness to the movement of the Spirit, and much support as we each live vowed life according to our diverse charisms.
As a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, a felt experience of global sisterhood has been an element of my vocation for as long as I've been a member of the community — especially through my participation in movements like Giving Voice and Companions in Franciscan Solidarity. My formation included studying documents from the Vatican regarding religious life and justice. And, I have participated in (and been impacted by) Global Sisters Report — an excellent online newspaper telling the stories of Catholic Sisters throughout the world. A woman discerning religious life today can gain strength in knowing that she is considering a commitment to a global movement of women committed to Christ. I certainly gain much strength and hope from this reality.
Peace & All Good,
Sister Julia Walsh
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Sister Sue Ernster Meets Pope Francis
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The Leadership Conference of Women Religious presidency, Dominican Sister of Grand Rapids Maureen Geary, Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration Sue Ernster and Dominican Sister of Springfield Rebecca Ann Gemma, along with executive director Sister of St. Joseph Carol Zinn, journeyed to Rome for LCWR's annual visit from March 18 to 22.
They met with teams working with consecrated life, the doctrine of the faith, culture and education, the synod, bishops, communications, integral human development and evangelization. The team also met with the Vatican's secretary of state and the U.S. ambassador to the Vatican and had a private meeting with Pope Francis as well.
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Do-It-Yourself Discernment Retreat
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Vision Vocation Network offers this simple do-it-yourself discernment retreat, adapted from "Take Five for Faith: Daily renewal for busy Catholics," to help you explore the various forms of Christian discipleship and the path that best suits you. The goal of this week-long retreat is to provide you with a thought-provoking start to your day that includes a passage from scripture and a call to action.
As you read each day's reflection, keep these five things in mind:
• The Holy Spirit works through you and is always available to you.
• Your relationship with God is strengthened by keeping your prayer life active.
• God is patient. Take the time you need to explore your vocation options.
• Seriously consider the various expressions of Christian commitment.
• Your vocation decision, whatever that may be, should ultimately bring joy.
God wants nothing less for you.
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Upcoming Events for Discerning Women
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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.
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Pentecost Celebration at The Fireplace
Sunday, May 19 | 1-4 p.m. CT | 5045 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL
Fifty days after Christ's resurrection, the Holy Spirit descended upon members of his community in the form of fire. Join the Fireplace Community as we celebrate the fire within us and among us! We will release a community zine about fire and the Holy Spirit, share refreshments and friendship, and celebrate our ever-growing community.
Come for our woman-led Pentecost Liturgy at 1 p.m., or stop by later for the celebration! Email discerning@fspa.org for more information.
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Coffee and Chat with Sister Julia
Saturday, May 25 | 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.
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Mass and Lunch with Sister Julia
Wednesday, June 5 | 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.
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Meditation for Emotional Health
Thursday, June 6 | 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. Gatherings are on the first Thursday of the month through videoconferencing; you are invited to attend any or all sessions as your schedule permits.
Visit fscenter.org for more information and to register by June 5!
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The Answer: National Eucharistic Procession
Friday, June 7 | La Crosse Center, La Crosse, WI
For the first time in 83 years, our nation will celebrate a National Eucharistic Congress in July 2024. National Eucharistic pilgrims will travel along four routes that originate in California, Texas, Connecticut and Minnesota.
The procession will walk to the La Crosse Center for “the ANSWER” — a Eucharistic Rally that features nationally and internationally known speakers and musicians. National Catholic media, Catholics from across our 19 counties and many more people who simply want to encounter Christ will attend.
Visit diolc.org for more information and to register!
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The Power of Silence: June Silent Directed Retreat
Sunday, June 9, 4 p.m. CT - Saturday, June 15, 1 p.m. CT | Marywood Franciscan Spirituality Center, Hiawatha, IA
During this retreat, you will receive ongoing direction as you and a professionally-trained spiritual director intentionally listen to the movement of the Source of All Being in your heart. Silence assists you in getting in touch with your feelings, thoughts and actions as you reflect, meditate, pray and rest.
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Coffee and Chat with Sister Julia
Monday, June 17 | 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.
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Mass and Lunch with Sister Julia
Wednesday, June 19 | 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.
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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.
This musical journey is a testament to the rich legacy of our esteemed instructors and promises an hour of soul-stirring melodies. Visit fspa.org for more information.
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Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration | Formation | 888-683-3772 | discerning@fspa.org
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