Mission and Heritage Week in SC

On October 3, Sisters Carol Piskor, Johnna Ciezobka and Susanne Dziedzic travelled to St. Francis Springs Prayer Center in NC for the celebration of the Transitus. Fr. Bob Menard OFM, offered stories of the character of Francis, interspersed with readings and songs and then a candlelight procession outdoors during which the Franciscan Litany was prayed. Even after so many years in religious life, the Sisters believed the stories gave new challenges with peace and justice issues in our tumultuous times. The next morning joined with more Franciscan friars and secular Franciscans (including Kathy Kubicki, sister of Sister Judith Marie) the Sisters gathered for liturgy. The season of creation was a theme that wove through Fr. Bob’s homily. “We will learn through the Gospels how the Lord instructed his disciples.”  - St. Francis

On October 8, the Sisters took 15 children (10 international students) from the Learning Center for a field trip to Lynches State Park to enjoy nature and participate in a class on birds and worms. There were rope bridges between trees for the children to cross and soak in Brother Sun, Mother Earth, Brother Air and more of God’s creatures. A stop for pizza and wings completed the outing. “We are sister and brother to animals and plants, water and soil, earth and sky.” - St. Francis

On October 9, the annual Barbecue Benefit was sponsored by the Felician Center Board. All donations were to be used to stock the Felician Center Food Pantry and help defray costs of a new security and fire alarm system in the main outreach building. Virginia Jonte, chair, brought Greeleyville Bank in as the main sponsor for the food. A new 5 minute Vimeo produced by Felician Services and the province solely about the Felician Center was shown to the guests. “For it is in giving, that we receive”.  - St. Francis

On October 10, the local board members including Dr. Todd Beadle, FSI Senior ministry advisor, participated in the Shoe Festival as the act of service. Nearly 200 pairs of NEW shoes with arches and supports were donated and/or purchased by area churches, benefactors etc. 158 senior citizens over 60 years of age were invited into choose a FREE pair of shoes to soothe their aching feet and backs. “When a poor person approaches, always remember that the person comes in the name of Christ.” - St. Francis

The Felician Center widened its tent to other Franciscans, other churches, international children, rich and poor during Mission and Heritage Week 2025.