The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Frankfort (FSSH), Illinois, are celebrating “150 Years of Grace: Journeys Ventured, Hearts of Hope.” Summer marks a time for Jubilee celebrations. The FSSH sisters will celebrate sister Jubilarians on June 13.
Here in Denver on June 3, the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, Sacred Heart Province will celebrate five sister Jubilarians marking 25 to 65 years of “simplicity and service into the world, living in a spirit of penance and love.”
I would be remiss not to note that this year is the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ passing. Brady Young, Franciscan Federation Manager of Member Engagement & Communications reminded me of St. Francis’ last words, “I have done what was mine to do; may Christ teach you what is yours.”
I came to Denver in 2019 to serve as Provincial Archivist. At the time, I was asked to be part of a working group, founded in 2017 by then Franciscan Federation President, Kathie Uhler, OSF, to discuss the future of the Third Order Franciscan archives. Those meetings led to the formation of the Franciscan Central Archive (FCA).
Today the FCA is doing what is ours to do, with respect for the charism and legacy of those that have come before us. Together with our partners who walk alongside us we are working to create an archive center that can share the history and stories of our partners, respecting the charism and legacy of those who have come before us.
At the invitation of St. Mary Elizabeth Imler, OSF, General Community Leader for the FSSH, the FCA visited the property in early 2025. This began our relationship with them. On their website they describe their property as, “The woods, a sanctuary of beauty and stillness, a landscape of whispering trees, shifting light, and quiet spaces that invite reflection.” I immediately recognized it was — and by August, our partner community leaders agreed this would be our future home.
Entering the property from the village road you are immediately met with green grass and scattered trees that become denser as you go further onto the property. The website notes the presence of a butterfly garden outside the Port, “Where nothing is rushed. Tiny seeds become blossoms. Caterpillars disappear into stillness. And what looks like an ending, becomes a beginning. And suddenly delicate wings unfold, where once there was only waiting. Here is something quietly sacred, reminding us that growth often happens unseen. That patience is a part of becoming. That stillness can hold transformation. It is a living parable of hope-beauty rising from hidden change.”
The Franciscan Central Archive’s portion of land is located just north of the Port. In moving forward with new construction there is responsibility to our Sister Mother Earth. We must consider water retention and detention, the replacement of trees lost due to construction, and the safeguarding of bat habitat. Discussions have begun about native plant species and responsibly sourced building materials. All this contributes to the building design to be ready before winter.
With expected groundbreaking in 2027, we aim to be open by or before 2030. Updates on our progress will be posted on our expanded website, in the newsletter, on social media, and with the Franciscan Federation. We currently have 14 partner communities and are aware of 3 interested parties making final decisions. Any congregations interested in joining the FCA for its primary phase of construction must reach out immediately.
Sr. Mary Navarre, OP, archivist for the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, has spoken of women religious being part of the fabric of this country. Her emails end with a quote from Sheila Flynn, “The story is not ended; the cloth is still on the loom.” To me this speaks of her journey, the journey of women religious, and their ministries. Each ministry, life of service, lived experience, and story bring us to the present. It is our reason for being and part of what guides us into the future.
Sr. Mary Navarre, OP, archivist for the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, has spoken of women religious being part of the fabric of this country. Her emails end with a quote from Sheila Flynn, “The story is not ended; the cloth is still on the loom.” To me this speaks of her journey, the journey of women religious, and their ministries. Each ministry, life of service, lived experience, and story bring us to the present. It is our reason for being and part of what guides us into the future.
I weave back to Sr. Mary Navarre, OP, and our first presentation together. Her eloquent words closed by referencing lines from the musical Hamilton and she offered, “Who will tell our story?” For the FCA, through preservation and responsible access, may we not only share stories, but also be inspired by them. May you consider the stories, mentors, and spiritual ministers that have impacted your life. How have they inspired you to do what is yours to do?
Holly Fiedler
FCA Board President
hollyf@franciscanway.org
(303) 458-6270 x112
