joyous occasion was the culmination of the contribution of many who dedicated their talents and energy to ensure that the fullness of the life of Blessed Frances Schervier was honored and shared by all those present.
The Liturgy was well attended by our Sisters, Associates, Brothers of the Poor of St. Frances, guests, and the local community.
The Liturgy program opened with a poem written by Associate Bev Clipson titled, Blessed Frances Schervier, A Life of “Yes” which beautifully captured the essence of who she was in the world.
Appropriately we began our celebration by singing Beethoven’s Hymn of Joy followed by a heartfelt welcome offered by Sister Armida Sison and Jan Bauer, Associate.
Our readings from Hosea 2:16-17, 21-22 and writings of Blessed Frances Schervier introduced Mother Frances’ spirituality to all assembled.
Jo Koch, Associate, offered a reflection of Mother Frances that summarized her spirituality as one of a mystic who’s calling for herself and the Congregation as one of “beloved belonging”.
That first and foremost Blessed France belonged to God and treasured her deep love for God and God’s love for her.
Secondly, that Sisterhood and life within the order, was one of beloved belonging; of caring for one another and journeying together. And finally, that all are to serve those in need, offering them hope and giving them a sense of belonging within the community. Blessed Frances’ great love of Christ and the poor brought Pope Paul VI to say that she is the “Mother of the Poor” at her Beatification Mass in Rome, Italy in 1974.
Our liturgy at St. Clare concluded with the Congregation reciting a commitment prayer led by Sr. Marilyn Trowbridge and Bev Clipson, Associate.
All were invited to view the many pictures and artifacts of the Beatification that were displayed in the hallway outside of the Chapel and Peace Center and in the Congregational Archive Museum.
We enjoyed identifying the Sisters who were in attendance at the original Beatification in 1974.
Sisters and Associates also enjoyed the display of their favorite quotes of Blessed Frances as well as their favorite stories about her and her sisters.
We concluded our celebration with delicious dinner in Schervier Hall. The conversations at each table were lively and interesting. All shared their experiences as members, family or guests of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor in years past and/or present. At this time all in attendance were given the opportunity to watch the video of the 1974 Beatification Liturgy presided by Pope Paul VI.
The video enabled everyone to experience the significance and importance of this honor given to Mother Frances.
Our day together ended with giving marigold plants to those at each table.
These plants served as decorative center pieces on each table. The marigolds held significant importance due to the fact that the seeds were brought back from Mother Frances’ hometown Aachen, Germany.
Everyone was invited to take a flower to commemorate the day. For all in attendance, it was a wonderful celebration filled with gratitude, awe, and delight in our life together as a Charismatic Family which all began with a “Yes” expressed by the Blessed Frances Schervier.
Associate SFP Molly Johantgen
