The Franciscan Resource Center (FRC), a sponsored ministry of the School Sisters of St. Francis United States Province is located in West View Shopping Plaza, West View Drive in Pittsburgh, PA. The mission of the FRC, which is rooted in Gospel living, is to journey with people in their daily lives and to offer a Franciscan perspective following the example of St. Francis of Assisi.
On April 16, 2023 the FRC opened its doors where “all are welcome” and in a few short years, has already impacted the local community and beyond. It has been a collaborative effort! Being located in West View Shopping Plaza, the sisters found themselves literally in the marketplace and transformed a former GNC building space into the new home of the Franciscan Resource Center. Imagine the shelving that a GNC store had for all its products now filled with books, artifacts of the history of the School Sisters of St. Francis and a map showing the different countries where they serve around the world.
The primary focus of the FRC is to invite people to journey together while living the Gospel life in meaningful ways, and seeking to explore our realities in society and the Church in order to gain an understanding of God’s call to live in harmony and peace with all of humanity. Together, and utilizing the synodal process initiated by the late Pope Francis, presentations are offered, questions shared, discussed and reflected upon in the following areas and are not limited to these:
Care for Creation – Laudato Si (survival of the planet), Justice and Peace, Immigration Reform, passive and active forms of violence, the need for building relationships with all our neighbors locally and globally (Fratelli Tutti), Scripture, Franciscan spirituality, sacraments, Church history, liturgy, LCWR Transforming Grace, seasonal reflection days, CRS, etc. etc.
Outreach to all God’s people is another important component of the mission. The FRC and the local community are very generous and involved in this aspect. Various drives are held by the FRC to address the needs of the community. Spiritual direction is available for those who seek it as there are three Spiritual Directors available who hold spiritual direction certificates. The FRC offers a space where the gifts of many can assist in the needs of others.
A lending library is part of the environment of the FRC and all are welcome to come in sit a bit, enjoy refreshments and choose a book to read, check out and return. Many come in just for the quiet space, a request for prayer, and to engage in conversation. It is truly a place for all and all are welcome.
To live fully and humanly can be a struggle, but it is the ultimate goal of our lives. The FRC can assist all on this Franciscan pilgrimage to a life of peace, simplicity, humility and joy as we journey together.
Peace and all good!
Sr. Adelina Garcia, OSF
garcia.adelina@gmail.com
