Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity were eye witnesses at ARISE Milwaukee on Saturday, February 9, 2013 when Jesus fed a crowd of 500 people through the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, praise and worship music and Scripture calling for a change of heart. Franciscan Cardinal Stritch University provided the perfect setting for a focus on Isaiah 55 seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near. (St. Francis’ own discernment prayer parallels this text: This is what I want, this is what I seek, this is what I long to do with all my heart.)
While ardent animator Pete Burds welcomed the large assembly of varied ages, it was evident many red-t shirted young adults were putting their faith into action with behind (and in front of) the scenes needs. Paul Vogrinc and the ARISE band provided a sincere wake up call sound to enter into the evening’s Eucharistic experience. Father Luke Strand, Vocation Director of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, passionately proclaimed a clear vocation message to all the baptised in the packed room and played a key role in liturgical planning. Many priests, including the Franciscan Friars of the Assumption BVM Province serving at Cardinal Stritch, assisted with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Here’s what Sister Elaine Turba, a first-time participant, thought about the experience:
As presented at ARISE last evening, the invitation to spend time with the Lord is given to each of us. What we do with that invitation is up to each of us. Some of us might refuse that invitation, while others might give a whole-hearted “yes” to that invitation to all that the Lord asks of us. Many people, at times, will “sit on the fence” – not wanting to say no to the Lord, but struggling to give that whole-hearted yes. It can be a challenge to respond fully to the Lord, to give of ourselves because in doing so, we will undoubtedly need to say no to something else. It is through much prayer and an openness to the Holy Spirit working in our lives that we come to see that our heart’s desire is in harmony with what the Lord desires for each of us. He wants us to be happy and filled with His peace and love.
Next date is April 13, 2013, Christ the King Parish, Wauwatosa. Click here for more information.
