April 12, 2010

We hope for rain this week. May God bless us with this gift of rain. We have a pretty patch of little blue flowers in the back yard. The rhubarb will soon be ready for pulling, but rain would help it grow a lot taller. My bleeding heart plant is growing about an inch a day.

The Bloodmobile is here at St. Francis this week: Wednesday and Thursday from 1 to 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments can be made by calling Sr. Julian at 320-632-0663. Folks can walk in, too, but they may have to wait since appointments are honored first. God bless all generous donors. They literally do give the gift of life.

An article in The Morrison County Record this week, reminded readers that “the Franciscan Sisters are again offering garden plots to those who’d like to garden. There is a minimal charge for each space to cover the cost of tillage, fertilizing and water. Call Jim and Donna Waldvogel, at 320-632-8522 to reserve a spot or for more information.”

We have several large plots for garden spaces just south of the Motherhouse. This is a great opportunity for those who don’t have a garden space at their homes, or those who have never gardened before.

Next Wednesday, we have an Appreciation Reception for Sister Grace who has served as vocation minister the past 9+ years. And welcome to Sr. Carmen, who will continue that ministry.

Saturday, April 24th we will host a Spaghetti Supper from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Come with a good appetite.

Yesterday afternoon I had a wonderful cultural experience. I attended the Heartland Symphony Orchestra concert at Charles D. Martin Auditorium here in Little Falls. This was the 33rd anniversary of providing live symphonic music to Central Minnesota. Two young men, in 11th and 12th grades played piano and saxophone solos with the orchestra. They are very talented youth.

In closing I want to share with you the following blessing from our prayer book.

May the risen Christ bless us.

May the peace of Christ fill our lives.

May the joy of new life resurrect our spirits.

Pax et Bonum
Sister Mary Lou