Written by Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

When I consider the stories of the Felician Sisters, I see their continual work to serve those around them. They find the need and work to meet it. They receive a request and work to fulfill it. This is part of the Franciscan Tradition. Following in the footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi, who gave their all to offer hope to people they encountered, is who we are as a Felician ministry.

Last week started with a winter blast that put so many people in a position to not be able to get anywhere or do anything. The alarming amount of snow in Manitowoc made roads impossible to travel for most people. For health care, that is even more of a concern. We require the nurses, CNAs, and RAs available who can meet the needs of our residents. You may have seen a recent post on our social media about this very situation. Our Director of Nursing worked tirelessly to find staff who could respond. An unscheduled caregiver came in despite the circumstances. She could only come if her dog was with her, since she could not get to her usual location for dog care. And in a beautiful moment of living out the Franciscan heritage of the Felician Sisters, our leadership said, “Yes! Bring your dog!” She made her way through the storm to meet the need and brought her dog, one of God’s beautiful creatures. St. Francis cared for all of creation: the people, the plants, the animals.

Our staff demonstrated their willingness to care for all in this time. They picked up shifts they weren’t originally scheduled for. They stayed longer than they had planned. They made their way through the storm to care for those in need. They embody the Mission of Felician Village, to continue the healing ministry of Jesus by providing compassionate care that respects the dignity of each person we serve. They live out the Core Values every day. And in a moment calling for them to go above and beyond, they step up and respond with compassion.

Blessed Angela: “Give aid to all without exception.”