September 14, 2016

Well, the BIG Little Falls Arts and Crafts Fair in the city of Little Falls is now a memory.

God gave us perfect weather. The almost 600 vendors sold lots of wares. Buyers seemed happy with their treasures. So what else could one want or expect? I was again a Block Host on Kidder Street and was happy to see some of the same vendors that have had their booths there for years. The dates for next year’s 45th annual event are September 9 & 10, 2017. It was also the 14th year for the West Little Falls Antiques and Collectibles Fair. This gathering, too, was well attended. Some vendors stay at St. Francis Center a couple nights during this event. 

Eugine d’Souza, from India, has been our guest at the Motherhouse the past several days. Last evening she talked to the Sisters and told us many interesting things about India and life in India. Having been a teacher, I was saddened to hear that education for girls is not a priority in that country.

Friday, September 16, (7:30 to 9 a.m.) the Franciscan Sisters will be hosting the Chamber of Commerce sponsored Friday Morning Coffee gathering. Chamber members and guests are invited for coffee and a roll, to see our place and learn more about the Franciscan Sisters. (It amazes us that there are people in Little Falls that don’t know who we are or what we do, or have ever been “in those big buildings at the south end of town.”

Sunday, September 18th, is Donor Day. Last count I had was that we were expecting about 200 guests for Mass, dinner and a program. I want all our donors to know that they are prayed for every day at Evening Prayer and also at other times during the day. God bless each of you who support our Franciscan Community in any way. We appreciate you.

The tickets for the David Haas, Marty Haugen, Michael Joncas Liturgical Concert for Friday, September 30th are all sold. We will have a full house of 415 guests. This is another of our 125th Anniversary celebrations. It will be a feast for our ears.

Sister Ruth said that last night it froze in some low places. Tomatoes that had leaf coverage were fine this morning…but soon the season will come to an end. We and the school have had LOTS for fresh vegetables thanks to the “school and garden” project.

Please pray for a couple of our sick Sisters. One is Sister Latona Kalis who suffered a “bad” stroke on Sunday. She is now back from the hospital and receiving care here. Thanks for your prayers for her/them.

God bless you and continue to care for you.

Sister Mary Lou