Weavings is a monthly reflection that is the collective effort of the Wheaton Franciscan Covenant Companions and Sisters to provide spiritual nourishment that helps us feel God’s presence in daily living and invite an openness to God.
Choosing The Franciscan Path
Comments by Wheaton Franciscan Sisters and Covenant Companions
As we approach the special days of Franciscan remembrance and celebration in October, thoughts turn to what a gift our Franciscan family has been to each of us. Eight Wheaton Franciscan (WF) Sisters and Covenant Companions (CC) have graciously shared their thoughts. Several of the writers are relatively new to the Franciscan journey while others have been following in the footsteps of Francis, Clare, and Mother Clara for decades.
They mused about the initial attraction and pondered what sustains them in their choice for their spiritual journeys.
Ophelia Barksetis (CC 2 years) recalls an introduction to the Wheaton Franciscans by a Sister community member as the initial catalyst. This led to participation in the 2-year course, “Franciscan Way of Life.” Discussion of day-to-day life with a long-term CC led her to commitment as a CC.
Clare Foy (CC 2 years) stated, “The Spirit worked through me during the pandemic and I felt I was being called to learn more about Francis. I signed up for the “Franciscan Way of Life” and received wonderful information about Francis and Clare. I felt drawn to the Franciscan focus of community, peace, joy, humility, and simplicity. The WF Sisters are an inspiration—their welcoming acceptance of all is truly humbling.”
Jennifer Humecke (CC 2 years) wrote: “Becoming a CC has had a profound effect in defining my sense of worship. I have learned the difference between liturgy as an ‘event’ vs. my own spiritual needs. I am evolving and molding my own sense of Franciscanism, Catholicism, and religion. My Franciscanism allows me to have a deep, personal relationship with my own God. It provides a safe and confidential space for me to explore my faith journey. I have learned to discern the direction that my heart has been calling me, to honor my self-care as a woman and a spiritual human being, and to embrace the Wheaton Franciscans as my companions on the journey. I try to take advantage of the CC offerings in order to feed my soul. I depend daily on my Franciscan prayers, mantras, and resources to ground myself during these days and provide me with peace of mind.”
Nancy Mueller (CC 2years) shared: “Franciscanism and my commitment as a CC have inspired and guided me to try and lead with love. I experience my life as stressful, but I am calmer and much more patient. I ponder Mother Clara’s recommendation to ‘Let love be the Queen,’ and it helps.”
Pat Ruggaber (CC 2 years) reveals that “I was quite immersed in the community prior to my CC commitment, so the change was not dramatic. Probably one effect is that I am becoming increasingly aware of, and interested in, is Franciscan spirituality. There’s a lot more to it than sappy statues of Francis feeding the birds! I’ll keep pondering!”
Carol Sejda (CC 42 years) remembers her first encounter with the WF community. “The immediate sense I had was: You are welcome, you are a gift, come along with us.” She credits the Franciscan path with guidance through the years. “While working in ministry, I focused on lessons of peace and hospitality and appreciation of God’s creation. During retirement, as my world began to shrink and health issues began to surface, I could still glory in the beauty of nature. Francis continued to help me see God’s face daily in others. And now I am gaining a more intimate awareness of end-of-life transitions. I continue to walk this path with joy and hope.”
Sister Theresa Langfield explains: “The call to religious life was planted when I was in third grade through my faith-filled home and by the Sisters who taught me for 12 years. The clear Franciscan attraction was nurtured by my WF aunts and sister. Their down-to-earth relationships, simplicity, humor, and authenticity drew me in—a perfect match for who I was and how my life would unfold. As in any life, I have experienced high points and low points, joys and sorrows. But for 69 years, my constantly renewed choice to be a Franciscan, a Wheaton Franciscan, has been my touchstone, my North Star, my abiding joy. The bond has grown deeper through the years. I continually give thanks for my Franciscan vocation in this Community.”
Sister Jane Petzel affirmed that “Being called to be a Franciscan is a pure gift. After almost 70 years of having that title, I still stand in awe of what it means to live as a follower of St. Francis. But the gift keeps on giving. The challenges are there every day, constant reminders to focus on the meaning of Incarnational theology and the connectedness of all creation. A certain world-view takes shape and, together with other Franciscans, it is possible to live and breathe the spirit that has given life to these 70 years.”
While the world around us can feel awash with unrest and anxiety, we invite readers to consider these examples from members of our community who have found peace and joy. Our hope is that you find the same.
May the Lord bless you.
May the Lord keep you.
May He show His face to you and have mercy.
May He turn to you His countenance and give you peace.
The Lord bless you.