Franciscan Sister Natalie Binversie reflects on the call of Sister Martin Flavin and her love not only for literature, but her own extensive writing throughout the years. To read the entire script, click here: franciscan-sister-martin-flavin-reflection
Sister Martin completed additional Graduate Study at Marquette University in 1961 in the field of Education. Sister Martin was asked to pursue a Doctoral Degree in English from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. The Ph.D was earned in 1972. Her dissertation, over 500 pages long is entitled: “A Critical, Modern-Spelling Edition of the 1629 Quarto of the The Wedding by James Shirley.”
Sister Martin taught Elementary, High School and College students before ministering as Director of Development at Silver Lake College. As vice-president of Mission Effectiveness for the Franciscan Health Advisory Services, Inc. Sister Martin wrote the script and oversaw the production of the DVD: “A Heritage of Hope: The Mission and Sponsored Ministries of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity.” This DVD is still being used to relay the message of the Mission, Vision and Values of our Sponsored Ministries. When Sister Martin stepped out of the role of vice-president of Mission Effectiveness she was called upon to support the Ministry Office Staff in a wide variety of projects. There were no limits on the quality of her creativity which was always a boost to all who benefitted from her involvement!
Sister Martin continued to share her love for literature, research and drama into her retirement years. Some recent examples are the writing and directing of Community productions including: “The Dialogue of Saint Francis and Lady Poverty: A Sacred Reading,” Transitus Services including: “Celebration of the Death of Saint Francis Through the Reflections of Saint Clare,” Propositum articles for the International Franciscan Conference of the Third Order Regular, and directing Founders’ Day Programs while she was a member of the Novitiate Team.
In recent years Sister Martin worked diligently to help Sister Donna Marie’s research and study of the Community’s history be published in 2014. A Star of Hope Shone in the Convent Sky will also be a lasting tribute to Sister Martin.
Do you feel God may be calling you to a life as a Franciscan Sister and serving as a teacher? We invite you to our next discernment retreat. Click here.
