It’s unlikely that St. Francis of Assisi ever imagined how vast his movement would become. His heart was focused on living the Gospel with simplicity and humility, not on founding a large institution. Although the Order grew rapidly during his lifetime, Francis remained more concerned with faithfulness to Christ than with expansion. He trusted in God’s providence more than in human plans.
This past Saturday, October 4th, on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, we joyfully celebrated the incorporation of six new Associates into our Franciscan Community. What a blessing to continue walking together as signs of love and peace in the world!
Here’s a brief look at these dear people who have joined us:
Doreen Bartos lives in Alexandria, Minnesota, and has been part of the Alexandria Associate group for over three years. Associate Jan Duhnke is both her friend and close Companion. Doreen is deeply interested in growing in her faith and actively working for justice.
Bridget Doak wrote: "I was a vowed member of the community, although I left before taking final vows. I am delighted to be part of it once again as we walk forward together. Little did I know that, after all these years, I would feel called to reconnect in a meaningful way with the FSLF community. I joined the EFS program that began this year, and I am open to continuing the journey with the FSLF and the Associates, carrying the spirit of Francis and Clare into our world as we open our hearts to building a more loving, just, and peaceful world." Bridget lives in the Twin cities and is part of the newly formed Franciscan Life
Group in the Metro area. AS Marilyn Gates and Sr. Pat Forster and her Companions.
Megan Martinez, a Catholic woman of Latin American descent, lives near the border in McAllen, Texas, where she has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by immigrants. She carries a spirit of closeness and solidarity with marginalized communities and is able to engage in meaningful dialogue with people of other faiths. She has reflected deeply on what life as an Associate would mean to her and studied all the available materials with Sisters Mary Du, Pat F., and Gloria—who are also her Companions on this journey.
Jane and Chuck Hauer They are so Franciscan in their lives of simplicity and connection. Retired now; Chuck from the family electrical business and Jane, mostly retired, but serving occasionally as a pharmacist for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, choose to live in a peaceful rhythm at home on the Mississippi River. They are devoted parents and completely in love with their young grandson, Charlie. Their two dogs benefit from their connection to and love for nature. Spend time with Chuck, a man of few words, and you will soon find yourself feeling relaxed as his gentleness, peacefulness and optimism fills the space around you. Jane’s lively enthusiasm for life is as big as her heart, overflowing with compassion and inclusiveness. Associates JoAnn and Garry Dahl kindly accepted the invitation and have been accompanying this couple through their formation and discernment process. (we do not yet have their photographs yet)
Jennifer Jimenez-Wheatley (better known as Jen) was born in the Philippines and has lived in the United States since she was 18. She is married, lives in St. Joseph, Minnesota, and her passion is social justice. This October marks one year since she began serving as a Co-Minister for the U.S. Associates. Through her visits and growing connections with them, she has become enthusiastic and ready to formally commit to this Franciscan way of life. Along the way, she has met fascinating people with whom she hopes to deepen her relationships. Her
Companion throughout this journey has been Associate Camilo Barrera.
