Wheaton Franciscans

Coffee &... BYO Picnic
2025-09-07 11:30 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
We invite you to Focus on Nature to honor the Season of Creation

Join us for Coffee and a Bring Your Own Picnic reception after Sunday Mass! Coffee, water, lemonade, and treats will be provided.

Enjoy your BYO Picnic in the Promenade, St. Clare Garden, and Wheaton Franciscan Campus. Take time to walk the grounds and enjoy being in nature. We hope to see you there!

Please Remember

We ask all participants to be vaccinated and boosted to the extent possible.

If you are feeling ill, please refrain from joining us this month.

Please stay connected with us through our Newsletter, website, and social media.

Stay connected through our weekly newsletter, which includes any updates and changes.

Concert with Jesse Manibusan - 9.7.25
2025-09-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
An afternoon of music, storytelling, and prayer to celebrate creation

As Pilgrims of Hope: Sowers of Peace, join us in celebrating the Season of Creation by attending the concert with Jesse Manibusan on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., in Our Lady of the Angels Auditorium.

Free-will donations accepted at the door. Suggested donation – $20.00 at the door.

Doors open at 1:15 p.m.

Order Tickets here

Jesse Manibusan is a composer, singer/songwriter, storyteller, and evangelizer. But above all, he is an encourager. His knack for building instant rapport and connecting with his audience inspires and motivates others to deepen their faith and cultivate the joy that inspires service, peace, and the celebration of life. Jesse earned an MA in Multicultural Ministries from the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, CA. He presents a variety of engaging and informative workshops and retreats nationwide. Jesse’s music is published by Oregon Catholic Press and Spirit & Song (a division of OCP).

Taizé - September 2025
2025-09-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
Please join us for Taizé Prayer at Our Lady of the Angels Chapel, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL, Entrance #7.

For those unable to attend in person, you can attend the livestream on our YouTube Channel.

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and select the bell icon to receive notifications when the Wheaton Franciscans go live!

You will also find the corresponding Mass Sheet in the description of the livestream video.

Taizé is a distinctive style of meditative prayer developed by an ecumenical community of monks in rural France. It is characterized by contemplative music with repetitive singing of simple harmonized tunes, interspersed with periods of silence, simple readings, prayers, and intercessions.

Chapel Information

We ask all participants to be vaccinated and boosted to the extent possible.

If you are feeling ill, please join us through Livestream

Please continue to stay connected with us through this newsletter and Livestream.

Announcements and schedule changes are listed on our website and we encourage you to frequent our Events Calendar for current event information.

Outdoor Summer Yoga
2025-09-13 09:00 - 10:15 | Tau Center, 26W171 Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Release Your Inner Strength

Take your yoga practice outdoors and be inspired by the beauty of nature. The yoga sequence taught is a blend of breathing techniques, simple stretches, and gentle yoga postures, enabling the body to release deep layers of tension and inviting connection of body, mind, and spirit.

Important Information

MEET AT ENTRANCE 5 parking lot (outdoor, weather permitting).

Bring your own yoga mat and whatever you need for comfort.

There is NO ACCESS to the building or restrooms for this offering.

Phone registration is required: to register contact Patti Essig: 630-355-7103. Online registration is NOT available.

For more information, please visit: www.yogaenergy.biz

Additional Dates

September 20, 2025

September 27, 2025

About Our Instructor

Patti Essig is a certified second level Amrit Yoga teacher and has been teaching yoga and presenting wellness workshops in the Chicagoland area since 2001.

Active Hope: Through the Lens of the Labyrinth
2025-09-17 09:00 - 12:00 | Tau Center, 26W171 Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Register

This contemplative program invites you to journey through the soulful practice of walking the labyrinth, guided by Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects. Together we’ll explore gratitude, honoring our pain, seeing with new eyes, and moving forward with renewed courage.

Through guided exercises, reflection, and conversation, the labyrinth becomes a living metaphor for personal and collective transformation. Weather permitting, portions will be outdoors, deepened by the beauty of nature. Gentle walking is included; the program is limited to 10 participants.

Open to all, this sacred space offers clarity, renewal, and active hope in the face of uncertainty. No prior experience required.

Our morning ends at noon, but you are welcome to bring a lunch and stay for more conversation together on the patio in the St Clare Garden

About Our Presenter

Karen Bychowski is passionate about guiding others to explore and live out the greatest purpose, offering both Individual Spiritual Direction (in person and virtual) and Personal Retreat Days. Previous programs at Tau Center have included Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life and Living in Alignment.

For nearly 20 years Karen traveled extensively across the United States and around the world, helping large organizations navigate change as part of her work with a Global Fortune 100 Consulting Company. After prayerful discernment, she left her corporate job to follow a deeper calling she felt from God.

Karen completed her training in Spiritual Direction through the Hesychia School of Spiritual Direction and is a Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation.

Outdoor Summer Yoga
2025-09-20 09:00 - 10:15 | Tau Center, 26W171 Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Release Your Inner Strength

Take your yoga practice outdoors and be inspired by the beauty of nature. The yoga sequence taught is a blend of breathing techniques, simple stretches, and gentle yoga postures, enabling the body to release deep layers of tension and inviting connection of body, mind, and spirit.

Important Information

MEET AT ENTRANCE 5 parking lot (outdoor, weather permitting).

Bring your own yoga mat and whatever you need for comfort.

There is NO ACCESS to the building or restrooms for this offering.

Phone registration is required: to register contact Patti Essig: 630-355-7103. Online registration is NOT available.

For more information, please visit: www.yogaenergy.biz

Final Session

September 27, 2025

About Our Instructor

Patti Essig is a certified second level Amrit Yoga teacher and has been teaching yoga and presenting wellness workshops in the Chicagoland area since 2001.

CANCELED: S'mores & More
2025-09-24 19:00 - 20:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
We regret to inform you that the September 24th S’mores & More outdoor event has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

We look forward to gathering together again at our final S’mores & More event, scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, in the St. Clare Garden at 7:00 p.m., weather permitting. We hope you’ll join us for an evening of community, conversation, and sweet treats.

CANCELED - Concert in the Garden
2025-09-25 11:30 - 12:30 | St. Clare Garden, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
with John Niemet

We regret to share that the Concert in the St. Clare Garden, scheduled for Thursday, September 25 at 11:30 a.m., has been canceled. Thank you for your understanding.

Outdoor Summer Yoga
2025-09-27 09:00 - 10:15 | Tau Center, 26W171 Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Release Your Inner Strength

Take your yoga practice outdoors and be inspired by the beauty of nature. The yoga sequence taught is a blend of breathing techniques, simple stretches, and gentle yoga postures, enabling the body to release deep layers of tension and inviting connection of body, mind, and spirit.

Important Information

MEET AT ENTRANCE 5 parking lot (outdoor, weather permitting).

Bring your own yoga mat and whatever you need for comfort.

There is NO ACCESS to the building or restrooms for this offering.

Phone registration is required: to register contact Patti Essig: 630-355-7103. Online registration is NOT available.

For more information, please visit: www.yogaenergy.biz

About Our Instructor

Patti Essig is a certified second level Amrit Yoga teacher and has been teaching yoga and presenting wellness workshops in the Chicagoland area since 2001.

Coffee and...
2025-10-05 11:30 - 12:30, 2025-11-02 11:30 - 12:30, 2025-12-07 11:30 - 12:30, 2026-05-03 11:30 - 12:30, 2026-06-07 11:30 - 12:30, 2026-07-05 11:30 - 12:30, 2026-08-02 11:30 - 12:30, 2026-09-06 11:30 - 12:30 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
Join us for Coffee and… in the Promenade after 10:30 a.m. Mass. There will be coffee, treats, and other refreshments available to enjoy while gathering with everyone in fellowship. We hope to see you there!

Please Remember

We ask all participants to be vaccinated and boosted to the extent possible.

If you are feeling ill, please refrain from joining us this month.

Please stay connected with us through our Newsletter, website, and social media.

Stay connected through our weekly newsletter, which includes any updates and changes.

S'mores & More
2025-10-07 19:00 - 20:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
All are welcome to our first S’mores and More evening!

Join us on Tuesday, October 7, at 7:00 p.m. in the St. Clare Garden. This casual gathering will be a time for faith sharing and community building, enjoying the lovely St. Clare Garden and warm summer evening. S’mores will be provided. Please bring your (soft) beverage of choice.

Campus Walk for Peace and Justice
2025-10-22 18:00 - 19:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
Hosted by The Wheaton Franciscans, Loretto Sisters, & Sisters of St. Clare: Pilgrimage of Hope

Come walk with us on our Pilgrimage of Hope. We will gather at 5:45 pm and begin walking at 6:00 pm. Together we will stop for moments of prayer and song, focusing on peace and justice at the crossroads of climate, migration, and racism. The route follows paved walkways.

Taizé - Nov 2025
2025-11-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States

The Way of the Heart — A Lenten Program
2026-02-24 09:00 - 11:30 | Tau Center, 26W171 Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Let us take some time this Lent to enjoy the spirituality of the desert fathers and mothers. We will use the short book, The Way of the Heart, by Henri Nouwen, as our guide. This program includes three in-person sessions as well as two short recorded videos to bookend the series.

The in-person sessions are every two weeks on the following Tuesdays, from 9am to 11:30am: February 24, March 10, and March 24, 2026.

Each session will explore a section of the book, starting with solitude, then silence, and finally prayer. Additionally, time will be allotted for experiencing these spiritual disciplines as well as some guided (optional) small group sharing. Participants are asked to secure a copy of the book The Way of the Heart, by Henri Nouwen.

Registration is requested by February 9, 2026. Visit our event site

Taizé - March 2026
2026-03-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States

Passion of Christ: A Reflection On Love
2026-03-29 15:00 - 16:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
Seven Stations: Then & Now

All are invited to attend this reflective hour about the Passion of Christ. It will be held in Our Lady of the Angels Chapel, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL, Entrance #7. For those unable to attend in person, you can attend the livestream on our YouTube Channel.

Presented by the Congregation of Jesus

Chapel Information

We ask all participants to be vaccinated and boosted to the extent possible.

If you are feeling ill, please join us through Livestream

Please continue to stay connected with us through this newsletter and Livestream.

Announcements and schedule changes are listed on our website and we encourage you to frequent our Events Calendar for current event information.

Earth Day 2026
2026-04-22 11:30 - 12:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
Prayer, Song, & Community

Join us as we celebrate Earth Day!

People around the globe are celebrating the 56th Anniversary of Earth Day. We will gather in the St. Clare Garden to celebrate our amazing Mother Earth and join together in caring for our home while supporting meaningful ways to protect our planet and its inhabitants. Bring a friend—or meet someone new!

In the event of inclement weather, we will gather in Our Lady of the Angels Chapel

View & Download the Flyer

Please Remember

We ask all participants to be vaccinated and boosted to the extent possible.

Stay connected through our weekly newsletter, which includes any updates and changes.

Taizé - May 2026
2026-05-08 19:00 - 20:00 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States

S'mores & More
2026-05-19 18:00 - 19:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
All are welcome to our first S’mores and More evening!

Join us on Tuesday, May 19 at 6:00 p.m. in the St. Clare Garden. This casual gathering will be a time for faith sharing and community building, enjoying the lovely St. Clare Garden and warm summer evening. S’mores will be provided. Please bring your (soft) beverage of choice.

S'mores & More
2026-06-24 18:30 - 19:30 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
Before we begin S’mores & More, we invite you to join our Prayer Service of Remembrance & Hope to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

All are welcome to our S’mores and More evening!

Join us in the St. Clare Garden on Wednesday, June 24 after the 6:00 p.m. Prayer Service. This casual gathering will be a time for faith sharing and community building, enjoying the lovely St. Clare Garden and warm summer evening. S’mores will be provided. Please bring your (soft) beverage of choice.

S'mores & More
2026-07-14 18:00 - 19:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
All are welcome to our S’mores and More evening!

Join us on Tuesday, July 14 at 6:00 p.m. in the St. Clare Garden. This casual gathering will be a time for faith sharing and community building, enjoying the lovely St. Clare Garden and warm summer evening. S’mores will be provided. Please bring your (soft) beverage of choice.

S'mores & More
2026-08-07 18:00 - 19:00 | The Wheaton Franciscans, 26w171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #5, WHEATON, Illinois, 60187, United States
All are welcome to our S’mores and More evening!

Join us on Friday, August 7 at 6:00 p.m. in the St. Clare Garden. This casual gathering will be a time for faith sharing and community building, enjoying the lovely St. Clare Garden and warm summer evening. S’mores will be provided. Please bring your (soft) beverage of choice.

Day of Reflection with Daniel Horan
2026-08-08 08:30 - 15:30 | Wheaton Franciscans, 26W171 Roosevelt Rd - Entrance #7, Wheaton, IL, 60187-6002, United States
Transformed Through Hope: Addressing our ‘Soul Sickness’ and Renewing our Faith in a Time of Fear

All Are Welcome – Registration Opens April 8 and Closes July 15, 2026

Suggested Donation of $65, which includes lunch

Event Registration

During times of great division, anxiety, fear, and injustice, it can be challenging to find sources of hope. In recent years, we have experienced increased polarization in our world and church, violence at the local and global levels, and a pandemic that affected every person on earth. This year’s day of reflection is an invitation to reflect on authentic hope in the world today and address the range of “soul sicknesses” in our lives, which are those sources of division, anxiety, fear, and injustice that trouble our hearts, minds, and communities. Daniel Horan will draw on the resources of the Franciscan tradition, especially the lives and writings of St. Francis and St. Clare, as well as a range of contemporary wisdom figures, to deepen our understanding of authentic Christian hope in troubling times and to renew our sense of faith at this important moment in history.

Daniel P. Horan, PhD, is Professor of Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Theology at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana. A columnist for the National Catholic Reporter, he is the author or editor of sixteen books, A White Catholic’s Guide to Racism and Privilege, and The Way of the Franciscans: A Prayer Journey Through Lent. Prof. Horan’s most recent books are titled Engaging Thomas Merton: Spirituality, Justice, and Racism and Fear and Faith: Hope and Wholeness in a Fractured World. He is a co-host of The Francis Effect Podcast and a regular columnist for the National Catholic Reporter. Prof. Horan regularly lectures around the United States and abroad and serves on several university, academic, and publication editorial boards. He is a recipient of numerous awards for his writing and service.
