Everything that [Saint Francis] said to [the brothers] in word, however, he would show them in deed with eagerness and affection. He used to revere prelates and priests of the holy Church, and honored the elderly, the noble, and the wealthy. Moreover, he intimately loved the poor, suffering deeply with them, and he showed himself subject to all…he wanted priests who handle the tremendous and greatest sacraments to be honored uniquely…. (The Legend of Three Companions)
Like the Seraphic Francis, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity foster reverence to priests and deacons who generously serve God and neighbor. During this season of ordination anniversaries, the Sisters remember these servants who are and have served with the Congregation in meeting the needs of the current time with vitality, adaptability, and dedication.
Seminarians also receive supportive prayer and personal communications throughout their years of study. Father Dan Schuster, grand nephew of Sister Virginette Schuster, and cousin of Sister Carol Mathe and Sister Barbara Mathe, presided at the 7:05 a.m. and 10:20 a.m. Eucharistic Liturgies today at the Motherhouse in gratitude for the community’s prayers during his preparation for the priesthood. Father Dan was ordained on May 31, 2008 at St. Francis Cathedral, Green Bay. Do you have any unique words of affirmation and encouragement for these men of God?