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

For three years, I have written these weekly mission messages. I have hoped to share the charism of St. Francis and St. Clare, whose follower Blessed Mary Angela Truskowska took as her patrons. But now the time has come for me to make a move to a new role. Next week I will begin my service at the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in their Diaconate Formation program. I leave Felician Village with sadness and gratitude. This space has been a welcoming spiritual community where I have had the joy to work with talented and dedicated people who share their love of God and care for God’s people in so many ways.

I have had the pleasure of seeing the many ways in which Felician Village lives out the values of the Felician Sisters: Respect for Human Dignity, Compassion, Transformation, Solidarity with People in Need, and Justice & Peace. This place upholds the mission of continuing the healing ministry of Jesus by providing compassionate care that respects the dignity of each person we serve. I will take with me that spirit of service that has filled my heart for these years.

The residents are the heart of all that we do here, and I know that will continue to be the case. I have enjoyed so very much my opportunities to have conversations with so many lovely people. I have enjoyed hearing the stories of the residents, spending time in worship with them, listening to entertainers together, and sharing the Felician-Franciscan tradition with all.

I know that you all will welcome a new Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care with open arms and hearts. You all will remain to be in my prayers. May God continue to bless you all with peace, joy, and love. As St. Francis said, “Pace e Bene,” Peace and Good.

Blessed Angela: “I entrust you to Jesus and His Blessed Mother and commend myself to your holy prayers."