The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis

Ongoing Formation

In Jesus’ own words we read: “Make your home in me, as I make mine in you. As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself but must remain part of the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. . . Remain in my love.” (Jn 15:4,9)

God calls us to religious consecration not because we are already mature in our spiritual development, but because He invites us to a deeper ongoing growth and transformation into His sacred image. Far from being complete at the moment of perpetual vows, this journey extends throughout our lives as religious. Formation is a lifelong journey.

Each Sister has an ongoing need for further growth as a person, a Christian, and a religious. She needs to grow into the fullness of Christ in every dimension of her life. As we have come to give our lives completely to Christ and the service of His Kingdom, it is important that we actively cultivate the gifts of grace and nature that God has given to us.

Our Sisters are encouraged to actively engage their personal development, as we recognize and value the uniqueness of each individual. Our Major Superior and her Council provide Community Spiritual Workshops, Forums and other programs and experiences designed to enhance the personal development of each Sister and to strengthen our life in community.

Ongoing formation is seeking the truth, recognizing it when it speaks to us, and learning from the truth so that we may bear much fruit in His Love.

Making Perpetual Vows

I remember with heart felt happiness the day of Profession of Perpetual Vows! I participated in a seven-day retreat before the ceremony. Many emotions radiated through my whole being. I was longing to give myself to God forever but nervous about doing the right thing at the Rite of Profession. I am sure it is like a bride who is anticipating to be united to her bridegroom. My bridegroom would be God. What a gift of unconditional love! The day arrived. Sisters, family and friends joined me in rejoicing as I would pronounce Vows of Consecrated Chastity, Poverty and Obedience, to God, to the Church and to our Franciscan Community forever. The Eucharistic Celebration began with an entrance hymn, “Glorious God” at our Motherhouse Chapel. After the homily at Mass, I pronounced my Vows. There was a response that came from my mouth for all to hear. However in the silence of my heart the response was beyond words. The Bishop placed a ring on my finger. My whole life now would be lived for God alone! In the silence of my heart, I heard God say, “I have called you by name; you are mine…” (Is. 43:1)

The years have gone by since that day in 1984. I am still living out that commitment to God. A commitment of love filled with many challenges that need to be lived day by day. My life is a journey of faith and trust in God’s providence. It is a life of growing closer to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Divine Family of Love whose mercy endures forever.

Prior to pronouncing her perpetual vows, the Sister spends at least three months in intense spiritual preparation for this total gift of herself to God. The general program for this period is the responsibility of the Director of Formation. It concludes with a retreat of seven full days followed by perpetual profession. (Directory, #120)

At perpetual profession the Sister receives a silver ring signed with the crucifix