Written by Sister Jan Kilian, this blog will give an understanding of what it’s like to be Franciscan. Living out the spirit of Saint Francis, we see all God’s creation as brother and sister. We, Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, are committed to building relationships and community, ministering wherever there is greatest need, promoting justice and healing Mother Earth’s wounds. My writings will give a glimpse of the compassion, spirituality, interconnectedness and goodness of living Franciscan.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Merry Christmas to All




Everything there is to be said about Christmas was already in the many cards and letters exchanged this month. . . . or was it? Is there something else I would really like to have someone hear?
As we gather with a small group on Christmas eve, I want everyone in the whole world to hear how precious are the ordinary things we do with each other. Our community chatted about the past many years we have gathered to honor this event which marks the union of Divine and Human. The holiday's emphasis is on the Human, God's choice to live a human life. This is a day which proclaims that our ordinariness is very good. We decorate our plants in gratitude for what we already have. My prayer for you today is that you enjoy the gift of your everyday life. Merry Christmas.

Friday, December 10, 2010

St. Cloud Franciscan Life Group


Our St. Cloud Franciscan Life Group has a new member: we are happy to welcome Jadzia Olson to this faith-sharing and study community of Franciscan Associates and Sisters. Jadzia has been an Associate for over 6 years and was active with the community in Morris, MN where she lived prior to coming to St. Cloud. She brings enthusiasm and a great love for community.
Present for our December meeting were S. Cordy Korkowski, Yvonne Warzecha, Geri Dietz, Kathie Pflueger, S. Janice Wiechman, and Bonnie Przybilla in back row. In front are S. Jan Kilian, S. Carol Virnig, and Jadzia Olson. Several other members were unable to be present this day. (Sorry, we took only one picture and so not all of us had time to open our eyes!)

Our St. Cloud group meets monthly and shares leadership responsibility for our gatherings. This year we have decided to not only study and reflect on some Franciscan readings but to also record some of our reflections for others to use some day. Murray Bodo's book, Francis - the Journey and the Dream, forms the basis of our current sharing. We find food for our spirits as we hear how these stories not only framed Francis' life in the 13th century but also provide a map for our 21st century lives. We find a great deal of joy as each of us shares her insights into current applications.