Hospital Sisters offer Lay Associates program

The Hospital Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, sponsors of 13 Illinois and Wisconsin hospitals including St. Joseph's in Breese, St. Joseph's in Highland and St. Elizabeth's in Belleville, have a Lay Associates program for those who want to share more fully in the mission, philosophy, life and prayer of the Sisters.

"Relationship with the Hospital Sisters is the hallmark of the Associates," said RuthEllen Davis, program coordinator. "Associates are part of the extended Franciscan family and give expression to their relationship with the Congregation through a written commitment lived out in their daily lives."

The Associates program began in 1987 in response to the Sisters' invitation to share their Franciscan way of life with men and women from many Christian faith traditions and walks of life.

"Associates share with the Sisters a desire to live the gospel of Jesus in their own life circumstances consistent with the Congregation's healing charism," Davis said. "They join in and form a mutual relationship with the Sisters while continuing to live within their own lifestyle."

The Franciscan Associates emphasize a strong sense of community and gather monthly to share their faith on spiritual and Franciscan topics, pray with the Sisters and participate in Congregational celebrations.

"Our community bonding reflects a healing spirit and the importance of community that St. Francis himself recognized," Davis said.

For information on the Sisters, visit www.hospitalsisters.org. For program details, contact Davis at 217-522-3386.