August 9, 2010: Green Fair and Paint-A-Thon

No lack of items to write about this week.

Last Wednesday we had the Green Fair Folk Festival. It was another great event. God provided us with a beautiful evening. The temps were a little high for the morning and afternoon set-up…but in the shade it was OK. The gentle breezes made for a pleasant time. MANY people came to visit the 47 booths. There was a big area of activities for kids. They had a truly wonderful time. The slices of fresh bread with peanut butter and jelly were a big hit. Terry said they went through 13 loaves of bread—24 slices per loaf (you do the multiplication). They also used half a case of un-popped pop corn. I think all the food vendors did well. I had a very informative visit with the Smude family who were selling their cold processed Virgin Sunflower Oil. They raise and process the sunflowers right here in our area, in Pierz, MN. (www.smudeoil.com). Lots of people brought their old electronic items for recycling. It was a good evening all the way around. Next year’s date is August 3, 2011.

Last Saturday was the Morrison County Paint-A-Thon. MANY volunteers painted five homes in Little Falls and two in the Swanville area. We served 126 volunteers a free breakfast at First United Church starting at 6:46 a.m. The morning was overcast and pleasant for painting. I checked out the house on the next block that was being painted. They had a big crew for a big house. Home-owners are very pleased with the looks of their property once the painters finished their work. The Franciscan Sisters furnished the caramel and cinnamon rolls for the breakfast and also four of us helped with serving and clean-up after the meal. Again, God provided good weather for the event. The rains came about 7:30 p.m.—and for some of us, cut short our stay at the Concert in the Park that evening.

On Sunday, we celebrated two Sisters who have been Franciscan Sisters for 50 years and three who have been with us for 75 years! The Chapels were filled for the 11 a.m. Mass. The music was outstanding! Thanks to all who helped with the liturgy, the food service, the set-up and whatever else got done to make for a wonderful day. After the meal there was great music in the dining room for listening to and for dancing to.

Tomorrow, August 10th, is Primary Election Day. Please get out and vote. Sister Nancy and I did our election judge training a couple weeks ago. We are ready to work.

Wednesday is the Feast of St. Clare, special friend and follower of St. Francis and the founder of the Poor Clare’s. She is a most special woman in the lives of all Franciscans.

Thursday, Sisters Loretta and Grace leave for their new assignment in Monterrey, Mexico. They will be living with and forming Community with our two newly professed Sisters who will be attending colleges there. May God continue to go with you on your journey and in your new home.

Saturday is the feast of St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe, a Franciscan Friar who gave his life for his Faith. I’ve read several books on his life. I admire his courage.


Pax et Bonum.
Sister Mary Lou