During this month honoring mothers and on the first Saturday of May, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity participated in The Walk to Mary, an annual pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion, Champion, Wisconsin. The only United States approved apparition site, Blessed Mother appeared to Adele Brise here in 1859. Sister Carol Seidl, Sister Carolee Vanness, Sister Theresa Feldkamp, Sister Maria Guadalupe Martinez Lopez and Sister Julie Ann Sheahan walked with many others of all ages remembering the intentions of all those in need. Here’s some reflections from three of our Sisters who made this journey for the first time.
Sister Caroleee Vanness (Hometown Algoma, Wisconsin, who met others of her own family on the way) commented: What an exhilarating experience of belonging to the Church-so many families, so many nationalities, so many good people seeking Mary’s intercession. There was time for silent prayer, prayers together, cheers, singing and chatting with other pilgrims. It was so well planned and numerous volunteers were so helpful. I look forward to participating next year.”
Sister Theresa Feldkamp (who grew up in Wrightstown, Wisconsin, and greeted friends of family on the walk) : “Everything was so well organized, and everyone was so friendly and helpful. There was such a positive spirit. It was such a blessing to be part of something so peaceful and hopeful in a world so in need of peace and hope. As I prayed the rosary I thought of the line “pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death,” and how many times that was repeated. There is no doubt Mary heard all of those prayers and that many blessings will come to all who participated in the Walk and to their loved ones.”
Sister Carol Seidl (who hails from Luxemburg, Wisconsin, not far from the Shrine): “It was an awesome experience to see so many families. It was said that people came from 47 states. To me, this shows that families still pray and want to teach their children to pray.”
May we walk with our Mother Mary always on our life’s journey.
Article Comments:
Fr. Placid Stroik, OFM 05/14/2023 @ 11:35 am
And all felt better about themselves because of whom they met along the way : family and friends., yes
.. and Jesus and Mary. thank you for letting me feel better about myself because you gave such a public statement about your faith, exactly what Peter asks us to do on this 6th Sunday of Easter. peace