Franciscan Sister Sharon Paul recalls this year’s Founders’ Day happenings in Ohio.
St. Benedict Convent, Cambridge, Ohio, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity invited their Sisters from Good Samaritan Convent, Zanesville, Ohio for an afternoon of dining, fellowship and prayer. The Sisters were treated to dinner at Theo’s, followed by sitting in the living room remembering stories and times of our Sisters over the years. We then had a delicious fudge sundae dessert.
The day was continued with a beautiful Vespers Service in the Chapel with pictures of our deceased members of our families, and pictures of our Mother Generals of our Religious Congregation on display. As part of the Vespers we remembered a few quotes:
- “God requires gratitude of us only that He may confer on us new graces.” (Mother Alexia)
- “Our work means nothing unless Christ, the life of our souls, is the motive, the inspiration, and the end.” (Mother Inez)
- “Let us not lose courage, but continue to beseech the Lord to use us as His instruments.” (Mother Agna)
We incorporated into the service two of the songs our Sisters have composed for our 150th. Anniversary as Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity: “In Praise of God’s Care,” and “Remember, Rejoice, Respond.” We reflected on the women religious who have led our Community over the years and the virtues which characterized their lives & have become part of our patrimony.
We ended with deep appreciation in our hearts for these many gifts and ask God to continue to bless each one of us past, present and future as a Community of Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
