Becoming an Associate of the School Sisters of Saint Francis was not a goal I consciously set for myself. I am a very structured person with goals and timelines that include personal, educational, professional and financial goals. So did becoming an Associate of the School Sisters happen by chance? Far from it!

I was educated by Franciscan sisters in elementary school. Their influence was a powerful force into my adult years and throughout my professional career. It impacted my commitment to Church. Through my involvement in ministry (peace and justice, liturgy, bereavement support and parish administration) I have been in "personal" formation to become an Associate. In these ministries I have met other men and women who are also School Sister Associates and have felt a deep connection with them.

I’m inspired when I attend School Sister-sponsored events such as a workshop held last spring on inner healing and non-violence. It helped me to see that besides looking at the violent life around us in society, I must also seek to calm the violence within me and reclaim the peace God wants for me. This is just one of the many reasons I am an Associate. Some associates have become close friends who have helped me understand the journey of life. They are blessings and are gifts in my life. Walking with them I am challenged, encouraged, and supported as we try to live our lives in the spirit of Saint Francis. What a wonderful reason to become a School Sister Associate!

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