Spiritual Opportunities

Be enriched through the many spiritual opportunities on campus. Stroll our grounds and wooded paths, walk our outdoor labyrinth and our Cosmic Walk, visit the Heritage Chapel or Queen of Angels Chapel for prayer, ask about our programs, retreats, hermitages and bodywork (see below), or just come to rest on one of the many benches and chairs provided near sacred places and amid nature's beauty. Explore the possibilities, and may the Spirit nurture and refresh you!

  • Queen of Angels Chapel

    The chapel is named after Saint Mary of the Angels (the Portiuncula) in Assisi. It was there that St. Francis started the Franciscan movement and where he ended his earthly sojourn. According to tradition, Francis obtained for that chapel the Portiuncula indulgence, which the Church extended to our Queen of Angels Chapel. This Feast of Pardon, the Portiuncula, is celebrated on August 2.


    Private Prayer

       Daily 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

    Mass

        Monday - Friday 7:45 a.m.

        Saturday 8:15 a.m.

        Sunday 9:00 a.m.

        (Morning Office 15 minutes before Mass)

    Holy Hour

        First Friday (Sacred Heart) 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

        Every Wednesday (Vocations) 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.


  • Motherhouse

    Scripture Reflection

    Scripture reflection and sharing on the next Sunday's Scripture readings (Sept.-May) are held on Thursday mornings, 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. in our Motherhouse Assisi Center. This prepares us for Sunday Mass and helps us better understand and apply the Word of God in our lives. The reflections are led by Sr. Marilyn Renninger. All are welcome. No fee and no need to register. 


    Spiritual Direction

    Being companioned on your spiritual journey by a trained spiritual director offers the opportunity for ongoing spiritual growth. In an hour session (often monthly), you are invited to share ordinary life experience, listen for the Spirit's movement, and see how God is speaking through the twists and turns of your journey.

        Sr. Janice Keenan, OSF    815.469.4883

        Norma Janssen, OSF    815.464.3808

        Nancy Roberta Schramm, OSF    815.464.3848

        Mary Shinnick, OSF    815.464.3807

        Joyce Shanabarger, OSF    815.464.3803


  • Portiuncula Center for Prayer

    The Portiuncula Center for Prayer nestled in St. Francis Woods and rooted in the Franciscan tradition, is a sacred space of welcome for those seeking peace of mind, body, and spirit. Visit their website here for day programs, retreats, hermitages and more.

  • Poverello Holistic Center

    When the stresses and demands of life dim the luster of who we are, skillful touch and sacred bodywork encourage personal awareness and individual growth. Learn more about types of bodywork and/or schedule an appointment: http://www.portforprayer.org/body-work/

  • Additional Spiritual Resources