08/09/2009
year:
2009
Every August our sisters come together at the motherhouse for what we call “Gathering Day.” The sisters often say among themselves that they are best when they are together. This year we have a very special reason to gather and to celebrate. 2009 marks the 800th anniversary of the origins of the Franciscan movement. It is pretty significant to be part of something that is long-lasting and that far reaching! Even more significant is the belief that the Franciscan message, while it has roots in the Middle Ages, has something to give our world and Church today.
So, come, join us to celebrate a story of a way of life that began in 1209 when Pope Innocent III approved Francis’ rule. We’ll be having some excellent, world renowned presenters for the day. Also, making the day even more significant, two of our sisters will be renewing their vows at the afternoon liturgy—recommitting themselves to living out that Franciscan message.
WHO: The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia
WHAT: Celebrate Gathering Day—the 8th Centenary Celebration of the origins of the Franciscan Movement.
Focusing on the topic, “Of God’s Fullness” Franciscan Evangelical Life: A twenty-first century dialogue with Joe Chennai, OFM; Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ; and Bill Short, OFM.
WHEN: Sunday, August 9, 2009, 9 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.
WHERE: Neumann University Life Center, One Neumann Drive, Aston, PA 19014-1298 (Directions From Philadelphia: Take I-95 South to Exit 2, Route 452 North. Turn right on 452 to five points intersection. Turn left onto Concord Road to University entrance, 1/2 mile on right.)
The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia is a community of nearly 600 Catholic women religious who choose a Gospel way of life lived in community and uphold a long and honored tradition of loving God and being in relationships through loving service. Today our sisters minister in the United States in approximately 24 states, as well as in the Caribbean, Ireland, and Africa. We serve in a variety of ministries and settings: prayer ministry; health care; education at all levels; parish and diocesan ministry; spiritual and pastoral care; service to the elderly, the homeless, the poor, persons with AIDS, and immigrants and refugees; counseling; advocacy; and leadership in national religious organizations.
