Praying, Living, & Loving the Franciscan Way
Doors Open, Milwaukee, an annual opportunity to explore buildings usually closed to the public took place Sept. 19th & 20th. This is the 2nd year the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi Motherhouse on South Lake Drive was open for visitors. Once again 757 visitors toured our Gothic and gilded St. Francis Chapel, modeled on the Cathedral of Cologne, archives with vestments made by the sisters, a monstrance by one of the sisters, prayers that were meant to accompany putting on each item of the former religious habit; the oldest part of the building dating from the 1880’s, with the tiny bedrooms called “cells” with enough room in the closet for 2-3 habits; the 3rd floor dormitories with the foot thick walls of lath and plaster and the beds with white curtains around each for privacy. Throughout the building are beautiful works of art and depictions of St. Francis and Clare. The response of people was awe, wonder, and amazement. They called it a “little gem”. Some had seen it last year and returned bringing family and friends. Some were thrilled to know they could come and pray or attend mass or spend quiet time on the grounds or in the hermitage of prayer. Quite a few of St. Mary’s Academy alumna or children of alumna toured. Some people were interested in associateship and a few in knowing more about what it means to be a sister today. For the “crew” of sisters and associates who spent the two days or even a few hours on the effort, we were amply rewarded at the joy and peace the visitors experienced. Kudos to Sister KD and John Schmitt for their excellent organizing!
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