It is in giving that we receive." This phrase rang true when listening to the YTM (Youth in Theology and Ministry) at St. Francis Convent, June 21. The youth from the Catholic parishes in Cold Spring, Willmar and Wausau, WI, shared with confidence and passion a few challenges of their projects, but included in addition many rewards of their parish-based service projects. The YTM youth were passionate about helping others and gained confidence in becoming better leaders in the process. The projects presented by the three groups were:

1.) Helping people everywhere - tasks ranging from mowing the lawn for elders to child care;

2.) Parents night out - a monthly, 2-hour faith formation program based on a Bible story for children while their parents enjoyed a date;

3.) Inspiring youth to become involved in church ministries.

A major concern throughout was the continuity of their projects in the parishes after graduation from high school.

The Franciscan Sisters are one of the financial sponsors for the St. John's School of Theology YTM Program. The sisters were deeply touched by the commitment, enthusiasm and creativity of the presenters. It is obvious that this program definitely offers us hope in the youth of today. They ARE helping to rebuild our church and society!

Thank you, sisters for giving support to the students by your presence and affirmations. We also received by listening to the students. "It is in giving that we receive."

-- Sister Ange Mayers, Assistant Vocation Minister

.

A large group of youth, together with their teachers, sponsors and parents, gathered at Sacred Heart Chapel, St. Francis Convent, Little Falls, on Sunday, October 25, 2009, to participate in a "teaching mass" celebrated by Father Richard McGuire.  The youth who attended were actively involved in the readings, prayers and songs for this mass and came from the Catholic parishes of Flensburg and Swanville, Minnesota.  Father McGuire explained each part of the mass, the symbols and rituals as handed down throughout history. The young adults preparing to receive the sacrament of Confirmation were pleased with the knowledge they gained, which they commented, will make future participation in mass much more meaningful for them.  Following mass, the group enjoyed a delicious lunch with the Franciscan Sisters.

Busy students serious about their relationship with God took part in a Busy Students Retreat at the Newman Center, located on the beautiful campus of the University of Wisconsin, River Falls, Wis., during the last week in October. Sister Grace Skwira was one of four spiritual guides for the 20 students who participated.  These young adults committed to spend time each day meditating on a given Scripture passage, then met for prayer and reflection with their spiritual guides.  They found that one is never too busy to give a little time for God each day.  At the end of the week, students commented that after spending time in prayer, they felt less harried by the many pressures facing them in their academic life.  Needless to say, the spiritual guides were impressed and inspired by these students who shared their spiritual journey with them.



Click here to view the Vocations Page.


.