Where To Find UsFranciscan Spirituality Center is located at 920 Market Street, one block west of Mayo Health System-Franciscan Heathcare and one block north of Viterbo University. FSC shares the building with St. Rose Convent.Telephone: 608-791-5295Email: FSCenter@fspa.orgOn the web: www.FSCenter.org

Solitude Ridge HermitagesThree individual hermitages are built on the edge of a woodland and provide the peace and quiet of a rural setting. These small buildings were designed to provide a space for the silence and solitude necessary for a deeper experience with God. Hermitages are $50 per night. Email or call the Center to make your reservations today.Telephone: 608-791-5295

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For Your InformationAt the Center newsletter is published three times a year on earth-friendly paper with a higher recycled content. Cover design, interior layout and select photographs by Kate DeWaard.

Franciscan Spirituality Center920 Market StreetLa Crosse, WI 54601Phone: (608) 791-5295Email: FSCenter@fspa.orgWeb: www.FSCenter.org

IdentityFranciscan Spirituality Center is a Gospel-driven, interfaith community founded and sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.

MissionThe Franciscan Spirituality Center is dedicated to supporting anyone in their search for God, meaning and wholeness.

We live this mission because we believe:In each of us lives the Sacred.•We need each other to recognize and honor •that part of ourselves.Responding to spiritual hunger is necessary •for growth, healing and peace.As we grow in wholeness, we contribute to the •healing of all creation.

Core ValuesIn keeping with the tradition of our Franciscan founders, we hold these core values:SacrednessBelieve that in every person and all creation lives the Sacred.RespectAcknowledge the dignity, diversity and worth of each person as a unique image of God.CommunityThrough prayer, empathy, and sharing, create a safe, peaceful place.HospitalityWelcome all with compassion, acceptance and celebration.ProfessionalismCommit to competence, quality, trust and personal spiritual development.

What We DoThe Franciscan Spirituality Center guides and directs processes for prayer and personal presence to anyone on their sacred journey as co-creators of a just and peaceful world. The Center offers individual and group spiritual direction, guided and preached retreats, day-long programs and events. Staff is available for off-site workshops, presentations and programs.

At the Center Articles3 Director’s Column9 Board Member Q & A

Center Program offerings by month

september5 Eating Poems for Lunch5 Spirited Writers Forum5 Unity and Diversity in the Family of God5 Intentional Parenting Series5 Walking a Labyrinth: Meditation in Motion5 Drum Making5 Mark’s Good News OctOber6 Journaling through Transition6 Franciscan Day of Solitude6 Home Funerals and Green Burial6 Vatican II: 50 Years of Hope & Renewal6 Journey Toward Wholeness6 Spiritual Foundations for Leadership NOvember ANd december7 Couples Retreat: Communication Styles7 Love in the Workplace7 Enjoying Retirement: A Spiritual Approach7 An Advent Meditation7 Love That is Stronger than Death7 Family Advent Celebration At the ceNter News & hAppeNiNgs2 At the Sophia Bookstore4 Spiritual Living Programs7 Fr. Richard Rohr Webinars8 Body, Mind and Spirit Programs8 Coming this Winter and Spring9 New Staff Profile9 Reflections from the Center9 Open House Series

At the SOPhIA BOOKStOreNew Books

Healing The Heart of Democracy by Parker PalmerActive Hope: How to Face the Mess We’re in Without Going Crazy

by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone holiday Gift Certificates are available.

Find out more about our programs, meeting rooms, hermitages and spiritual direction -

please call (608) 791-5295, email: FSCenter@fspa.org or find us on the web: www.FSCenter.org.

Annual Used Book SalePlease drop off any unwanted books at the Front Desk before October 19. We accept all types of books and appreciate your

donation. The sale starts on October 19. Please tell your friends and family to come and shop.

3 At the Center

As summer winds down and people begin to gather at county and state fairgrounds, it reminds us of the importance of creating community. The FSC recently conducted a survey of our participants to learn more about what you want from us and how we can better communicate with you. Two themes that emerged were: 1) The importance of being a community open to all faiths; and 2) The strong identification of our participants as religious and spiritual (77% in the FSC survey, compared to 47% nationally in a 2011 NCR survey). Your responses have underscored our role of serving as para-church–a center for renewal that supplements the work of local faith communities in feeding the spiritually hungry.

Just as faith communities provide a place to worship and minister together, people also need a place to come together to share their journeys along the spiritual path. Subsequently, the

FSC is launching several initiatives to respond to your desire to create spiritual communities. Some of these offerings are highlighted in this newsletter.

One way is by starting a regular series of open house events, where folks can drop in, share a cup of coffee and learn more about what we do. We are also hoping to create a “virtual” community with the launch of our weekly Reflections from the Center emails, starting in December. Finally, we are returning to our roots by putting more focus on cohort programs, where a group of participants come together to share a year-long journey to create community. We have always featured a cohort approach in our Spiritual Direction Preparation and Spiritual Foundations for Leadership programs. Next fall, we will be returning to a cohort approach with the revitalized Journey Toward Wholeness program, which will include group spiritual direction as a way to deepen the shared experience of community with others. All of this brings us great joy as we share our community center with all of you!

Peace and all good,

Jeff

DIRECTOR’S COLUMN

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S p i r i t u a l L i v i n gThe Franciscan Spirituality Center is the place for people from all walks of life and spiritual paths to come together to

learn more about themselves, about God and how to use spiritual principles to build a better life and world. We hope you will find a place at the Center to find your peace and joy!

New this fall! Weekly Prayer for everyone. Come for prayer from 7 to 7:45 a.m. each Tuesday at the Center beginning September 4. We will “listen with the ear of the heart” to the Gospel for the coming Sunday and experience the grace of praying as a small community. Join us at any time, no registration needed. Evening Contemplative Prayer provides an opportunity to experience prayerful silence in community with others. Meets on the first and third Tuesdays each month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Join us at any time, no registration needed.Spiritual Direction is a time-honored practice of spiritual companioning that provides an opportunity to explore the ways in which God may be touching your life. Sessions are offered in an environment of compassionate listening and unconditional acceptance.

Evening Men’s Group: Conversations That Matter provides an opportunity to dialogue with other men on issues that matter in men’s lives. Meets twice a month on either Tuesday or Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. Call Vince Hatt at 608-386-7551 for more information.Saturday Morning Men’s Group enjoys coffee and muffins while discussing a current book related to spirituality. Meets one Saturday a month from 9 to 11 a.m. Call Vince Hatt at 608-386-7551 for information about the book.Depressed Anonymous is a 12-step group where people dealing with depression can generate positive energies, form friendships and find support. Meets every Monday throughout the year from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Call Vince Hatt at 608-386-7551 for more information.Enneagram Study Group is a discussion group for those interested in using the Enneagram to explore their spiritual life and relationships with family, friends and co-workers. Meets the second Wednesday of each month from 5:15 to 7 p.m. Calling All Women is a casual, monthly gathering for women who enjoy meaningful conversations on topics of interest to women. Meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month, beginning September 20. Contact Barb Kruse (608) 791-5612 or bkruse@fspa.org for more information.Franciscan Day of Solitude is an opportunity to hear the voice of God more clearly in prayer by withdrawing from the distractions and demands of everyday life. Offered four times per year, starting Monday, October 8 at 9 a.m.

Is Spiritual Direction for Me? Join us for a conversation about spiritual direction from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month:

September 12 yOctober 10 yNovember 14 yDecember 12 y

We will provide information on what spiritual direction is and acquaint you with the Spiritual Directors at the Center.

Photo by Kate DeWaard

Share Your Spiritual WisdomWe know you have wisdom to share and we want to hear from you! Be creative and write your own or use your favorite quote for

these spiritual affirmations and we will share them in the next At the Center newsletter.Send us your inspiration for spiritual wisdom to estrickler@fspa.org (<50 words) by October 1.

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eating Poems for LunchFridays, September 7-October 26 from Noon - 1 p.m.Presenter: Marci Madary, fspa AffiliateInvestment: $40/8 sessions or $7/sessionEvery week Marci brings a selection of poems for a feast of imagery, memory, alliteration and laughter. Bring a brown bag lunch and join us over the noon hour on Fridays in September and October.

Spirited Writers ForumSecond and fourth Tuesday of the monthSeptember 11-December 11 from Noon – 1:30 p.m.Presenter: Theresa Washburn, fspa AffiliateInvestment: $56/8 session, or $7/sessionThis group explores the voice of the divine working in our poetry, prose and journaling, as well as practical tips to make writing more compelling.

Unity and Diversity in the Family of GodTuesdays, September 11 – October 2 from 7 - 8 p.m.Presenter: Rev. Dr. William J. ReeseInvestment: $35/4 sessions or $10/sessionThe Christian religion traces its origin back to the same founder, Jesus Christ. Yet within this one religion we find Catholics and Amish, Pentecostals and Lutherans. Join Dr. Reese for a fascinating look at what unites – and separates - Christians today.

Intentional Parenting SeriesThursdays, September 13 - November 15 from 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.Investment: $10/per session or $50 if you register for all 6 sessions.September 13 - An Introduction to Intentional Parentingwith Keely Rees, Ph.D.In this world of fast-paced connections, finding our way to fully engage and evolve with our families can be challenging. This evening will focus on empathetic communication and real-life rituals that can bring meaningful space and connections with our children. Come join us for an evening of sharing and dialogue on the basics of being an intentional parent.

October 11 - Media Consumption and Family Life with Martha BucheIs your family consuming media, or is it consuming you? We are surrounded by media like TV, movies, computers, portable media players, digital music, cell phones, gaming, social media and websites. This evening will focus on awareness of how the media impacts our brains, interactions and health. It will help you make choices about family media consumption.november 15 - Family Spirituality with Emily Dykman, fspa AffiliateThoughtful and deliberate conversation, ritual and service offer the family an opportunity to share the gifts that life offers. When nurtured in the family setting, one is able to continue to offer this lens of gratitude and hope throughout one’s life. This session will offer practical suggestions for the intentional parent in developing rituals and acts of gratitude and hope in the family setting.

Walking a Labyrinth: Meditation in MotionSaturday, September 22 from 10 - 3 p.m.Presenter: Joan Weisenbeck, fspaInvestment: $30, includes lunchExperience the labyrinth walk as a way that brings together the movement of our bodies, the holy ground on which we walk and the sacred space within. Walking the labyrinth is an invitation to balance mind, body and spirit. We will meet at the FSC and walk the outdoor labyrinths on the Mayo Clinic and Viterbo campuses. Walking, prayer, silence, journal writing and interaction with others will be integral parts of this day.

Drum MakingFriday, September 28 (7 - 9 p.m.) and Saturday, September 29 (9 - 5 p.m.)Presenter: Wayne MantheyInvestment: $140, includes bedroom, breakfast and lunch.Commuters: $95, includes lunchMaterials: Please choose one: 16” drum - $125 or 13” drum - $100Join Wayne Manthey as he shares his journey of becoming a drum maker. Wayne guides us through the step-by-step process of mak-ing our drums while honoring the animal for the hide and the trees for the wood. We will experience our unique relationship with all of creation. Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in a drum circle. Limited to 15 persons.

Mark’s Good newsFriday, September 28 (7 - 9 p.m.) and Saturday, September 29 (9 - 3 p.m.)Presenter: John McHughInvestment: $65, includes lunchHave you ever left a Sunday church service wondering what the Gospel passage meant or how it applied to your life? Join John McHugh’s exploration of the Gospel from Mark and the “good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” This weekend includes time for personal reflection and prayer. Participants should bring a Bible with them.

SEPTEMBERRegister online at www.FSCenter.org or call 608-791-5295

September 11 – Why the Bible? How do different Christian churches view the Holy Scriptures and their place in the life of a Christian?

September 18 – Who is Jesus? Savior of the world, prophet, role model, or fraud?

September 25 – Why Rituals and Sacraments? Where is there agreement and division on the holy acts of the Christian church?

October 2 – What is the Church? How do understandings of “church” (Catholic, ecumenical, orthodox and heterodox) impact Christian unity?

Intentional Parenting Continues:January 10 - Parenting with Sanity with Tom Roberts, lcswFebruary 7 - Live Your Values . . . Live in Peace with Stacy ShapiroMarch 14 - Family Food Choices with Monique Hooker

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Journaling through transitionSaturday, October 6 from 9 - 4 p.m. Presenter: Theresa Washburn, fspa AffiliateInvestment: $65, includes lunchJournaling helps us cope with life’s changes. It makes us aware of our resistances, helps us identify our allies and aids in understanding the phases of change. Using the Hero’s Journey model, coupled with various journaling techniques, we will learn how to use these tools to help make the transitions of our lives more bearable and our self-acceptance much greater. Bring pen, paper and an open heart.

Franciscan Day of Solitude Monday, October 8 from 9 – 4:30 p.m.Presenters: FSC StaffInvestment: $30, includes private bedroom, lunch and staff facilitatorsWe draw on St. Francis of Assisi’s simple guidance to offer you a Franciscan Day of Solitude to reflect and pray in silence. This day includes group prayer, lunch and a private bedroom to dedicate your silent time to rest and solitude in the peaceful environment of the Franciscan Spirituality Center.

At the end of Life: home Funerals and Green BurialSaturday, October 13 from 9 – NoonPresentes: Sharon Berger, fspa; Joe Schams, Coulee Region Cremation Group; Charlene Elderkin, Threshold Care CircleInvestment: $10Although death is a universal experience, there are options when it comes to end of life vigils, funeral rites and burial. At this program we will hear from our panel about the spiritual, environmental, financial and other reasons many people are choosing home funerals and green burials. There will be time for questions following the presentation.

Vatican II: 50 Years of hope & renewalThursdays, October 18 and 25, November 1 and 8 from 6:30 – 8 p.m.Presenter: Tom Thibodeau and special guestsInvestment: $10/per session or $35 for the seriesGroup Rate Discount: Register groups of six or more before October 1and receive a 20% discount on the series ($28 per series)

Vatican II is not only a major event in Christianity, it is one of the most significant events in all of the 20th century. On four Thursday evenings we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Council. Join host Tom Thibodeau and his special guests in remembering the story and discussing why Vatican II brought spiritual renewal and the hope of things to come.Share Your Story: As part of the Center’s Vatican II celebration, we invite you to share your memories or thoughts on this historic moment. How did Vatican II affect you, members of your family or your community? Please write down your story (in less than 500 words) and send to aquanrud@fspa.org before October 1, 2012. Please include your full name and telephone number.

OCTOBER

October 18Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times

with Marlene Weisenbeck, fspa and Jeff Dols, fspa Affiliate

October 25Praying What We Believe, and Believing What We Pray

with Fr. Mark Pierce and Brian Singer-Towns

November 1Renewing Our Baptism, Transforming Our World

with Tierney Trueman, OSF and Audrey Quanrud

November 8Proclaiming Hope and Joy

with Fr. Robert Cook and Tom Thibodeau

Journey Toward WholenessOne Year Program for $600 includes: 4 weekend sessions,

meals and group spiritual direction.Contact Audrey Quanrud by phone (608) 791-5264

or email aquanrud@fspa.org for an application.Program is limited to 24 participants; please apply before September 1.

Inner Transformation: The Value of Prayer Friday, October 19 (5:30 p.m.) to Sunday, October 21 (10:45 a.m.)

In this session, you will be invited to experience multiple and varied prayer forms, with the hope of connecting more deeply

with the ultimate Source of love.Coming this Winter:

January 25-27 – Mystical Journey Inward: The Value of ConversionMarch 22-24 – Solidarity with the Poor: The Value of Minority

April 26-28 – Moving Toward Simplicity: The Value of Poverty

Spiritual Foundations for LeadershipOne Year Program for $775 includes: 4 weekend workshops, lodging,

meals and 4 hours of spiritual mentoring sessions throughout the year.Contact Rosalie Hooper Thomas by phone (608) 791-5268

or email rhthomas@fspa.org to register by September 1.Gaze on Leadership: Drawn to Love, Opening our Hearts

Friday, October 26 (6:30 p.m.) to Saturday, October 27 (4 p.m.)Participants will create a space to reflect upon different spiritually-based leadership models and compare them to their own practices. Gazing on loving leadership, participants will be introduced to methods for more compassionate communication with those they serve.

Coming this Winter:January 11-12 – Consider Leadership: Mirroring Love

March 15-16 – Contemplate Leadership: Seeing and Loving More Deeply April 19-20 – Imitate Prophetic Leadership: Becoming What We Love

Like us on Facebook to find out more information about these upcoming programs and events.

7 At the Center

Couples retreat: Communication StylesSaturday, November 3 from 1 – 6 p.m.Presenters: FSC StaffInvestment: $60 a CouplePatterns of communication develop in our closest relationships, some of which may be helpful but also may be confusing. This retreat is for couples (married or unmarried) who would like to gain some insight into the communication patterns in their relationship. The afternoon will end with appetizers, refreshments and the opportunity to visit with others.

Love in the WorkplaceWednesday, November 7 from 6 - 8 p.m.Presenter: Jeff Dols, fspa AffiliateInvestment: $25Love in the workplace sounds like risky business, but that is exactly what St. Paul prescribes in his first letter to the Corinthians. Unconditional, agape love can make us better leaders, colleagues and friends. The fruit of this kind of love–patience, kindness, compassion, mercy and forgiveness–can heal what ails the modern workplace. Come explore the spiritual roots of unconditional love and learn how to apply it where you work.

enjoying retirement: A Spiritual ApproachFriday, November 16 (7 - 9 p.m.) and Saturday, November 17 (9 - 4 p.m.)Presenter: Rev. John Yungerberg, lcswInvestment: $95, includes lunchThis workshop will stimulate you to discover the gifts hidden in the aging process and to see retirement as a time filled with many opportunities for personal spiritual development, service to God and to others. This period in life also involves loss, liberation and increasing self-integration. There will be time for reflection both individually and in a group setting.

An Advent Meditation: Jesus in the Gospels andthe Saint John’s BibleTuesdays, November 27 – December 18 from 6:30 – 8 p.m.Presenter: Audrey QuanrudInvestment: $35/4 sessions or $10/sessionThe four Gospels were written at different times and for different communities. Each Gospel reveals something different about Jesus and the meaning of his birth some 2,000 years ago. As we

prepare for Christmas, come reflect on what the evangelists tell us about Jesus of Nazareth. We will use the beautiful sacred art (or illuminations) of The Saint John’s Bible to help us both see and hear the Word.The Saint John’s Bible is a hand-written, hand-illuminated Bible commissioned in 1998 by Saint John’s Abbey and University in Minnesota. It was completed in 2011 under the direction of renowned calligrapher Donald Jackson. It is the first handwritten Bible since the invention of the printing press, intended to “illuminate the Word of God for a new millennium” (www.saintjohnsbible.org).

Family Advent CelebrationSaturday, December 1 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.Presenter: Joan Weisenbeck, fspa and Audrey QuanrudInvestment: $20 per household if registration and payment is received by November 17; $25 after November 17. Price includes snacks and supplies.The season of Advent is a perfect time to create sacred space and traditions for your family. Come and celebrate Advent with your entire family! Experience a fun morning exploring the tradition of the crèche (begun by Francis), enjoying holiday treats and creating an Advent wreath that your family will cherish at home.

A Love that is Stronger than Death:For those Who have Lost their BelovedFriday, December 7 (7 – 9 p.m.) and Saturday, December 8 (9 – 4 p.m.)Presenter: Marci Madary, fspa AffiliateInvestment: $95, includes lunchThis retreat is a healing opportunity for anyone whose life partner has died. It is a graced moment for participants to reflect on their journey, sharing with others who have walked the same road. Share stories and prayer, poetry and silence, laughter and tears as we explore the paschal mystery of suffering, death and new growth. Together, we will remember the sacred truth that love is stronger than death.

NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

november 27 – The Gospel of MarkDecember 4 – The Gospel of MatthewDecember 11 – The Gospel of LukeDecember 18 – The Gospel of John

Fr. Richard Rohr Webinars2012 Dates to remember:

August 4 - Lineage: Fr. Richard’sSeven Spiritual Themes

October 6 - Practicing Contemplation and Facing Paradox

December 15 - Immortal Diamond:the True Self and the Risen Christ

At the FSC from 9 - NoonWebinar: Richard Rohr, Ofm

Investment: $10Register Online

www.FSCenter.org or call the Center for more information

(608) 791-5295

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Vinyasa Yoga Monday or Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.Presenter: Bernice Olson-PollackInvestment: $45/6 weekly sessions (Monday or Wednesday) or $75/12 sessions, 6 weeks (Monday and Wednesday).

Session 1: Mondays, September 10-October 15 Wednesdays, September 12-October 17Session 2: Mondays, October 22-November 26 Wednesdays, October 24-November 28

Vinyasa Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years for its health benefits. These include mental focus, improved balance and flexibility, enhanced body awareness, relaxation and stress relief. The Vinyasa type of yoga combines a series of flowing movements with mindful breathing.

Golden YogaTuesday mornings from 11:15 – NoonPresenter: Bernice Olson-PollackInvestment: $35/6 weekly sessions

Session 1: Tuesdays, September 11 – October 16Session 2: Tuesdays, October 23 – November 27

Golden Yoga is a gentle blend of yoga and stretching. Traditional poses are modified with the use of a chair. It is a safe approach to improve your flexibility, strength and balance. Try Golden Yoga this fall and feel the difference!

healthy Balance for Women Tuesdays from 5:30 – 7 p.m. starting September 11 – October 16. Presenter: Bernice Olson-PollackInvestment: $55/6 weekly sessionsLiving our best requires a healthy balance of attention to mind, body and spirit. This 6-week program will guide you to achieving that balance through regular exercise, nutritious foods, enhancing relationships, exploring personal growth and spirituality.

niaThursdays from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. starting September 13 – November 1.Presenter: Lisa RadtkeInvestment: $60/8 weekly sessionsNia is a movement practice that draws on other practices such as T’ai Chi, Tae Kwon Do, dance and yoga to heighten awareness of the body, mind, emotions and spirit. The joyful movements are designed to positively shape the way you feel, look and think.

t’ai Chi Chih® Part 2Mondays from 5:30 – 7 p.m. starting October 1 - 29.Presenter: Marian Massman, fspaInvestment: $60/5 weekly sessionsT’ai Chi Chih consists of 19 movements and one final pose that provide a way to relieve stress, restore balance and focus one’s attention. The movements are progressive in sequence, with new movements being taught in each session. Part 2 is for those who would like to learn the last series of movements (11-19).

BODY, MIND AND SPIRITDo something great for your body, mind and spirit. Call (608)791-5295

or register on line at www.FSCenter.org for the following programs.

StArtInG thIS JAnUArYIntuition and Intention in Decision-Making with Kristy WalzFriday-Saturday, January 4-5

Eating Poems for Lunch with Marci MadaryEight Fridays, January 4-February 22

Great Themes of Richard Rohr with Jeff DolsFive Wednesdays, January 6-February 6

Intentional Parenting Series: Parenting with Sanitywith Tom Roberts, lcswThursday, January 10

Winter Franciscan Day of Solitude with FSC StaffMonday, January 14

God’s Story in Our Story in God’s Storywith Bishop Jim Arends, elcaFriday-Saturday, January 18-19

StArtInG thIS FeBrUArYTenderhearted God: Experiencing God’s Loving Embrace in Music with Cathy Tisel NelsonFriday-Saturday, February 1-2

Intentional Parenting Series: Live Your Values . . . Live in Peace with Stacy ShapiroThursday, February 7

Married Couples Retreatwith Barb Kruse and Linda Kerrigan, fspa AffiliateSaturday, February 9

Lenten Gospels with John McHughSeven Tuesdays, February 12-March 26

Embracing the Chaos: A Healing Retreat with Tom RobertsFriday-Sunday, February 15-17

Soul Journey: Writing Your Spiritual Autobiographywith Timothy BascomFriday-Saturday, February 22-23

StArtInG thIS MArChIntentional Parenting Series: Family Food Choiceswith Monique HookerThursday, March 14

Holy Week Retreat with Fr. Charlie Smiech, ofmMarch 24-31

COMING THIS WINTER AND SPRING

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Reflections from the Center is a collection of musings on Spirituality and Prayer from the Franciscan Spirituality Center. Starting December 1, just in time for the Advent season, we will offer weekly email reflections for your contemplation, reflection, consideration and thought. Our hope is that these reflections are a gift to you that will continue after Advent throughout the New Year. To receive these weekly email reflections, please send your email address to estrickler@fspa.org.

Open House at the CenterPlease join us for a casual open house to discover what the Center has to offer. Bring a neighbor, relative or friend. Refreshments and tours are available.

Key dates to remember are: September 12 at 7:30 a.m. yOctober 10 at 5:30 p.m. yNovember 14 at 10 a.m. yDecember 12 at 7:30 a.m. y

AT THE CENTER NEWS & HAPPENINGS

new Staff Member

Are you interested in volunteering at the Center? We are always looking for new volunteers for the following:Front Desk, Hospitality, Administrative Support or Special Events.

Contact Linda Kerrigan at lkerrigan@fspa.org for more information.

Q. When did you join the Franciscan Spirituality Center Board?A. I joined the board in September 2010 after a respected colleague of mine, Beth Erickson, said she had nominated me and the board unanimously approved my addition to the board. I felt so honored they would have that kind of trust in my potential contributions.

Q. How do you envision your role as an FSC Board member?A. My role with the board, I think, is to offer a relatively mainstream view of the Center and its work; brainstorm ideas for reaching a broader audience in need of spiritual guidance; and support the staff members and their efforts at the FSC. I’ve personally found the FSC to be welcoming, kind, altruistic, supportive and informative. It is my hope that others will discover and share these similar experiences. As a place that welcomes everyone, the Center is such a community asset and is full of opportunities for so many.

Q. How have you made the Franciscan Spirituality Center your Spiritual Center?A. Spirituality has been a lifelong journey for me - for all of us, I suppose - and I believe things happen for a reason. Since joining the board, I’ve found a greater interest in the value of spiritual living and the many things that can mean, met other inspiring board members and staff, and grown in my understanding of the Franciscan Spirituality Center and its mission. One day, I hope to make use of the hermitages for a private spiritual and writing retreat. It is a bucket-list item. Q. What is your favorite aspect about the Center?A. While my spiritual life has seen many bends and curves in the road, I have always firmly believed in the power of prayer. I love that our board prays at meetings. This centers me and helps me remember the Center’s goals. I’d love to see families and children in particular seeking the Center as a welcome spiritual and educational haven, and truly, as our mission suggests, find wholeness.

Q&A with Board Member Lissa Carlson

Zoua Vue joined the Franciscan Spirituality Center as a receptionist on June 11. Zoua was a dietary aide for the FSPA for 6 years and most recently worked the front desk at the St. Rose Convent. She graduated from Central High School and then went on to Western Technical College. She lives in La Crosse with her parents and enjoys biking and playing volleyball in her free time. She looks forward to pursuing her professional career in the small, intimate work environment of the FSC alongside Mary and Jenny. We welcome Zoua to the Center – she is quick to smile and is eager to help. Please stop by to say hello!

“Because I wasn’t born and raised here in La Crosse, I have a special appreciation forthe Coulee Region’s many blessings, including the FSC!”

~ Lissa Carlson, Editor/Publisher Coulee Parenting Connection

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Please remember the Franciscan Spirituality Center in your Will

FSC is a ministry of the FSPA, a 501c(3) non-profit organization. Our tax ID# 39-0806386