On Feb. 26, 2025, 17 individuals joined an informal Zoom chat to learn more about the Wheaton Franciscan Covenant Companionship way of life. The participants heralded from Cohorts 6,7, or 8 of the two-year Franciscan Way experience and expressed curiosity in learning more about our Covenant Companion (CC) community. When asked why they chose to participate in the Close-up session, attendees said contemplating, excited to learn, want to enrich my life, love of the Sisters, inquiring, interested in the next step, among other comments.
The evening was facilitated by CC Jeanne Connolly, Director of Charism and Mission, and featured storytelling by three Covenant Companions: Pat Faivre, Dave Pfeifer, and Sharon Niemet. They described why they were attracted to the Covenant Companion way of life, how their journey evolved, and how they are living their personal covenants today. The evening concluded with a far-ranging Q&A session, covering topics from the discernment process and commitment ceremony to how the CCLC is structured and how to serve as a Covenant Companion with your spouse or individually.
This first-ever session proved to be a Franciscan-hearted sharing of information and support. The CC Close-up Team promised to be available for future conversations as these individuals and others seek to learn more about the unique role of Covenant Companions within the Wheaton Franciscan community.