Discernment Opportunities
Here at St. Francis Woods (FSSH Motherhouse) in Frankfort, Illinois, we offer discernment opportunities to help women who are interested in religious life think about their next step in life. Lodgings and meals for day or weekend visits are at no cost to participants. Informal visits to St. Francis Woods may also be arranged.
To register for any of these events or arrange for a visit according to your schedule, please email vocations@fssh.net or contact Sr. Nancy 815-464-3848 or Sr. Maria at 815-464-3873.
NOTE: You have to be 18 for overnight visits. Women under 18 may participate in our Vocation Day program. Parents are welcome during Vocation Day. Just let us know and we will make the arrangements.
Come and See Weekend
We invite single Catholic women 18 and over to come share a weekend learning more about us and our way of life as Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart.
This weekend will allow you to take time to discover God’s presence in your life, to pray and reflect about religious life today and to learn what this means for you.
The “Come and See” weekend will give you an opportunity to:
- Pray and share in the life of the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart.
- Meet other young women who are interested in learning about religious life. •Reflect on your own call without the pressures of committing to a vocation.
- Think about your life's direction and listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
To request a "Come & See" visit, whether it be for a day or a weekend, please contact us: Email: vocations@fssh.net or call
Sr. Nancy 815-464-3848 or Sr. Maria at 815-464-3873
Load Come and See Brochure
Vocation Day Program
If you are under age 18, you are still welcome to join in our Come and See Weekend Retreat during the day (Saturday and Sunday morning). You are also welcome to visit us during the day for a tour, Q & A, or simply to get to know us while we get to know you! You may bring a parent with you as we understand that parents also have plenty of questions.
Franciscan Living Experience
- The Franciscan Living Experience is a week-long live-in experience at St. Francis Woods with the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart that allows women discerners to share in the joys of Franciscan Life.
- During this week you will experience community life and prayer, as well as fun and relaxation, as we gather to share our lives, our faith, and our ministries.
- Daily sessions covering topics of Franciscan Spirituality and life will be integrated with prayer, ministry, and community life experiences.
Scripture Reflection Discernment Program
Exploring God's plan for your life requires listening to the stirrings of the Holy Spirit. We offer companioning by phone or email to help you in your discernment. Commitment to setting aside time for prayer and reflection and regular correspondence with your Vocation companion is required. Sharing and discussion may be done in person, via email, or by telephone. Contact Sister Nancy if you would like more information regarding this program.
Holy Hour
Join us at Queen of Angels Chapel, St. Francis Woods for Holy Hour for vocations at 4:00 p.m.:
- First Friday every month
- Every Wednesday to pray for Vocations