Full Version: Franciscans Of The Immaculate
I just recently learned of the Franciscans of the Immaculate, and they sound like they would be a great fit for me, as they love Our Lady, are orthodox and fully obedient to the Holy Father, and are rather traditional (full habit, the aforementioned devotion to Our Lady, many Masses in Latin, and even the Extraordinary Form of the Mass occasionally). Before I write a letter to them expressing interest in their order, is there anything, good or bad, that I should know about them?
From what I know of them, they are a really beautiful order. I met one of their Sisters in Rome, and she was so kind. I know they are very traditional and have a pretty strict interpretation of what it means to be Franciscan. On a completely superficial note, they also have one of my favorite habits.
It never hurts to make contact with an order, as the vocation directors are there to help you discern your vocation, even if its not to their order.
There are many orders that have a very strong devotion to Our Lady. I don't know how much you've searched, but I know there are lots of people (myself included) that have discerned with Marian orders and could at least give you a little info (or a little direction).
One thing to seriously look at is what kind of order you are looking for: cloistered, active-contemplative, or active, as it will make a big difference in your lifestyle.
Anyway, my advice, contact any order that appeals to you to ask for more information, because that's the only way you'll ever know. Most have a lot of material on their charisms, even in print, which is really helpful.
God bless and keep us updated!
In Jesus and Mary,
Lauren
It never hurts to make contact with an order, as the vocation directors are there to help you discern your vocation, even if its not to their order.
There are many orders that have a very strong devotion to Our Lady. I don't know how much you've searched, but I know there are lots of people (myself included) that have discerned with Marian orders and could at least give you a little info (or a little direction).
One thing to seriously look at is what kind of order you are looking for: cloistered, active-contemplative, or active, as it will make a big difference in your lifestyle.
Anyway, my advice, contact any order that appeals to you to ask for more information, because that's the only way you'll ever know. Most have a lot of material on their charisms, even in print, which is really helpful.
God bless and keep us updated!
In Jesus and Mary,
Lauren
They're awesome. They have good taste in everything (liturgy, art, full habit, use the media for all it's worth for God's glory). They sort of have double benefits--they're sprung from the Franciscans who have been around for a long time, obviously, so they have plenty of Saints to look back to, but they're quite a new Institute so they have a lot of youthful zeal and are still at the point where they seem to be opening convent after convent. It reminds me of the beginning of the Dominicans, actually (might remind me of the Francs. if I knew their history at all, but I don't), since it seems like each new place is quite small, two or three friars or sisters.
One of the Sisters I met, when I told her I wasn't particularly interested in Franciscans, said it wasn't the Franciscan aspect that attracted her when she first heard of the institute as much as the Marian. They are very much in the spirit of St. Maximilian Kolbe and doing what he wanted to do: take over the world for Jesus through Mary (as I understand it, I bet some of you know him a lot better than I do).
They also have 2 cloistered Institutes that are related--one for sisters who enter the active branch and then discern cloistered life, and one that you enter directly. I don't know much about where or how many these are.
One of the Sisters I met, when I told her I wasn't particularly interested in Franciscans, said it wasn't the Franciscan aspect that attracted her when she first heard of the institute as much as the Marian. They are very much in the spirit of St. Maximilian Kolbe and doing what he wanted to do: take over the world for Jesus through Mary (as I understand it, I bet some of you know him a lot better than I do).
They also have 2 cloistered Institutes that are related--one for sisters who enter the active branch and then discern cloistered life, and one that you enter directly. I don't know much about where or how many these are.
i met a sister in Italy last year too! i just got their vocation packet (for the friars) and am very impressed with their spirituality and for me, the schedule. i'm definitely considering visiting.
are you familiar with the St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Fr. Kolbe Missionaries (Militia of the Immaculata (MI)), Immaculate Mediatrix Movement (MIM) , total consecration to Mary, or St. Louis de Montfort? they will give you a basic idea of just how Marian they are.
i'd love to hear any questions or comments. all for the Immaculata!
are you familiar with the St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Fr. Kolbe Missionaries (Militia of the Immaculata (MI)), Immaculate Mediatrix Movement (MIM) , total consecration to Mary, or St. Louis de Montfort? they will give you a basic idea of just how Marian they are.
i'd love to hear any questions or comments. all for the Immaculata!
New news on the cloistered sisters: There are at least three houses in Italy: at Aulla (northish between Genoa and Florence), Pastena (between Rome and Naples) and Creazzo (between Venice and Verona).
I found the names at this blog, Cordialiter, which seems nifty for phatmass-type news if you read Italian.
The writer also notes
I found the names at this blog, Cordialiter, which seems nifty for phatmass-type news if you read Italian.
The writer also notes
QUOTE
We are amazed to see how, despite their reclusive life in the cloister, they are succeeding in attracting many vocations through prayer
and that they are a religious order of "strict observance" approved by the Holy See in May 2002.
i just finished reading the book the vocation director sent me, Franciscan Legend of the Immaculata - The Franciscans of the Immaculate: History and Reflection, and i am quite impressed! i read the 100+ pages in one sitting today, and that's impressive because i am not much of a reader. the beautiful color pictures helped too. i highly advise writing and asking for a copy.
other than meeting all the main things i am looking for (except making some of the offices optional ;P), the lasting impression i am left with is just how Marian they actually are. they go even deeper into it than i had even thought, to the point where when they got pontifical status, the fourth Marian Vow they make is given first honor of place among the three other religious vows.
i wondered how Kolbean they were, and i don't think they could be any more Kolbean less they were right in the middle of Niepokalanow.
to my surprise one of the two founders was actually a spiritual son of St. Padre Pio, who is one of my favorites. He is a big part of the history and intercessor for them.
the Holy Rosary - well since St. Padre Pio is known for his immense devotion to the Rosary, there's no doubt they follow suit.
even from the beginning, their charism was renewal by going back to the roots of austere Franciscan spirtuality. not super hardcore, but enough for me.
they, especially the sisters, emphasize fidelity to our Pope and Magisterium, especially support of local bishops.
they built a perpetual adoration chapel - check!
they use technology and any means available to spread the Word, through the Immaculata - word!
missionary and open to going wherever and doing whatever for the Immaculata - what i had wanted when i first started discerning.
--
as a concession, in the book they even mentioned some of the problems and downfalls some of the communities had during the pontifical approval process.
so far, so good!
==
btw they listed all the friaries and convents so if you want them i can jot them down for ya.
other than meeting all the main things i am looking for (except making some of the offices optional ;P), the lasting impression i am left with is just how Marian they actually are. they go even deeper into it than i had even thought, to the point where when they got pontifical status, the fourth Marian Vow they make is given first honor of place among the three other religious vows.
i wondered how Kolbean they were, and i don't think they could be any more Kolbean less they were right in the middle of Niepokalanow.
to my surprise one of the two founders was actually a spiritual son of St. Padre Pio, who is one of my favorites. He is a big part of the history and intercessor for them.
the Holy Rosary - well since St. Padre Pio is known for his immense devotion to the Rosary, there's no doubt they follow suit.
even from the beginning, their charism was renewal by going back to the roots of austere Franciscan spirtuality. not super hardcore, but enough for me.
they, especially the sisters, emphasize fidelity to our Pope and Magisterium, especially support of local bishops.
they built a perpetual adoration chapel - check!
they use technology and any means available to spread the Word, through the Immaculata - word!
missionary and open to going wherever and doing whatever for the Immaculata - what i had wanted when i first started discerning.
--
as a concession, in the book they even mentioned some of the problems and downfalls some of the communities had during the pontifical approval process.
so far, so good!
==
btw they listed all the friaries and convents so if you want them i can jot them down for ya.
Sounds great 
So I thought I would post this here, since it's mentioned sort of briefly in the Nuns Picture Thread: They have 5 sisters in New Bedford, MA at the convent right at St. Anthony's Church (a huge, gorgeous church built a hundred years ago by French immigrants). You can go for a visit, I did and could have stayed overnight but it didn't work out.
They are friends with the locals--when I was there, an old man brought them some beans with hand-written instructions on how to bake them in the slow cooker, and they asked him if he was serving Mass ("Not tonight"). The convent is poor--some other group had it, then it was empty for a few years, so some of it is like a construction zone, but they have everything, kitchen, library, cells, and a beautifully decorated Chapel. They kiss the floor when they enter and leave the chapel.
Three of the sisters work in the bookstore that the friars in town run. They told me about going to Staples and looking for book-covering Mylar (only they didn't know what it was called) so the people around town must know they exist! They are all Filipina. They said they were hoping to make a pilgrimage to Mexico sometime. They say two rosaries day in common; a sister told me that if two of them are working together, they'll say more then. "Better to have 18 while you're working and 2 in the chapel, even if you aren't meditating on the mysteries while you're working, than just 2 in chapel" she said to which my mental response was "18!?"
They are friends with the locals--when I was there, an old man brought them some beans with hand-written instructions on how to bake them in the slow cooker, and they asked him if he was serving Mass ("Not tonight"). The convent is poor--some other group had it, then it was empty for a few years, so some of it is like a construction zone, but they have everything, kitchen, library, cells, and a beautifully decorated Chapel. They kiss the floor when they enter and leave the chapel.
Three of the sisters work in the bookstore that the friars in town run. They told me about going to Staples and looking for book-covering Mylar (only they didn't know what it was called) so the people around town must know they exist! They are all Filipina. They said they were hoping to make a pilgrimage to Mexico sometime. They say two rosaries day in common; a sister told me that if two of them are working together, they'll say more then. "Better to have 18 while you're working and 2 in the chapel, even if you aren't meditating on the mysteries while you're working, than just 2 in chapel" she said to which my mental response was "18!?"
I had a friend who was discerning with the Franciscans of the Immaculate and she has a type of arthritis that was the cause of her leaving a different order. When she wrote to them expressing interest to their Community they told her that, "nobody is too sick to serve the Lord" and that she would still be eligible to join their Community. I just thought that was really cool and I was very impressed by that.
Do the Friars have a place (s) in England, and France?
\PAX
\PAX
QUOTE(johnnydigit @ May 13 2008, 06:00 PM) 
i just finished reading the book the vocation director sent me, Franciscan Legend of the Immaculata - The Franciscans of the Immaculate: History and Reflection, and i am quite impressed! i read the 100+ pages in one sitting today, and that's impressive because i am not much of a reader. the beautiful color pictures helped too. i highly advise writing and asking for a copy.
other than meeting all the main things i am looking for (except making some of the offices optional ;P), the lasting impression i am left with is just how Marian they actually are. they go even deeper into it than i had even thought, to the point where when they got pontifical status, the fourth Marian Vow they make is given first honor of place among the three other religious vows.
i wondered how Kolbean they were, and i don't think they could be any more Kolbean less they were right in the middle of Niepokalanow.
to my surprise one of the two founders was actually a spiritual son of St. Padre Pio, who is one of my favorites. He is a big part of the history and intercessor for them.
the Holy Rosary - well since St. Padre Pio is known for his immense devotion to the Rosary, there's no doubt they follow suit.
even from the beginning, their charism was renewal by going back to the roots of austere Franciscan spirtuality. not super hardcore, but enough for me.
they, especially the sisters, emphasize fidelity to our Pope and Magisterium, especially support of local bishops.
they built a perpetual adoration chapel - check!
they use technology and any means available to spread the Word, through the Immaculata - word!
missionary and open to going wherever and doing whatever for the Immaculata - what i had wanted when i first started discerning.
--
as a concession, in the book they even mentioned some of the problems and downfalls some of the communities had during the pontifical approval process.
so far, so good!
==
btw they listed all the friaries and convents so if you want them i can jot them down for ya.
other than meeting all the main things i am looking for (except making some of the offices optional ;P), the lasting impression i am left with is just how Marian they actually are. they go even deeper into it than i had even thought, to the point where when they got pontifical status, the fourth Marian Vow they make is given first honor of place among the three other religious vows.
i wondered how Kolbean they were, and i don't think they could be any more Kolbean less they were right in the middle of Niepokalanow.
to my surprise one of the two founders was actually a spiritual son of St. Padre Pio, who is one of my favorites. He is a big part of the history and intercessor for them.
the Holy Rosary - well since St. Padre Pio is known for his immense devotion to the Rosary, there's no doubt they follow suit.
even from the beginning, their charism was renewal by going back to the roots of austere Franciscan spirtuality. not super hardcore, but enough for me.
they, especially the sisters, emphasize fidelity to our Pope and Magisterium, especially support of local bishops.
they built a perpetual adoration chapel - check!
they use technology and any means available to spread the Word, through the Immaculata - word!
missionary and open to going wherever and doing whatever for the Immaculata - what i had wanted when i first started discerning.
--
as a concession, in the book they even mentioned some of the problems and downfalls some of the communities had during the pontifical approval process.
so far, so good!
==
btw they listed all the friaries and convents so if you want them i can jot them down for ya.
One in France, near Marseille:
Two in the UK, one near London--I think there may be sisters in that area too--
and one in Cornwall (is that a different country? or Wales?)
P.S. You can find these and maps also through marymediatrix.com if you click on "Communities in the World." Also, for EJames, they have a French web radio! http://www.immacolata.com/ click on Radio and it's Radio Immaculee Conception.
QUOTE
Marian Friary of "Norte Dame Des Anges"
Sanctuaire "Notre Dame des Anges" - 83790 Pignans,
Var France
Tel: (+33) (0) 4 94 59 00 69
Fax: (+33) (0) 4 94 78 28 54
Email: ffindanges@wanadoo.fr
Sanctuaire "Notre Dame des Anges" - 83790 Pignans,
Var France
Tel: (+33) (0) 4 94 59 00 69
Fax: (+33) (0) 4 94 78 28 54
Email: ffindanges@wanadoo.fr
Two in the UK, one near London--I think there may be sisters in that area too--
QUOTE
Marian Filial Friary "Our Lady Coredemptrix"
69 Comerford Rd Lewisham, London SE4, 2BA UK
Tel (+(44) (020) 86918997; Fax: (+44) (020) 84694616;
Email: ffilondon@talktalk.net
69 Comerford Rd Lewisham, London SE4, 2BA UK
Tel (+(44) (020) 86918997; Fax: (+44) (020) 84694616;
Email: ffilondon@talktalk.net
and one in Cornwall (is that a different country? or Wales?)
QUOTE
Marian Friary of "St. Joseph and Anne"
Lanherne Ave, St Mawgan, Newquay, Cornwall TR8, UK
Tel/FAX: (0044) 01637 860205
Email: lanhernefriars@ffi-uk.fsnet.co.uk
Lanherne Ave, St Mawgan, Newquay, Cornwall TR8, UK
Tel/FAX: (0044) 01637 860205
Email: lanhernefriars@ffi-uk.fsnet.co.uk
P.S. You can find these and maps also through marymediatrix.com if you click on "Communities in the World." Also, for EJames, they have a French web radio! http://www.immacolata.com/ click on Radio and it's Radio Immaculee Conception.
Cornwall is a county in the UK. It's next door to Devon (which is THE CENTRE OF THE WORLD).
As to whether Cornwall is actually another country...that depends on who you talk to. Some Cornish will insist on it, clamiing that their Celtic genes render them superior to the (Devonian) Anglo-Saxon scum. Some Devonians will point out that real Devon stock are just as Celtic as the Cornish (some Cornish go into palpitations at this, so be careful who you pass it on to....). Most see that part of the country as being slightly backward, but that's because we're just not as stuck-up as them clebbr volk oop countray
*
The sisters near London sometimes go down to Fr. Tim's parish (link) to sing when he offers the TLM. Those in Cornwall were present at a public Eucharistic procession (linky - Fr. Chris was curate at my old parish!!) in Truro.
*oooooh, my youth is coming back to haunt me!
As to whether Cornwall is actually another country...that depends on who you talk to. Some Cornish will insist on it, clamiing that their Celtic genes render them superior to the (Devonian) Anglo-Saxon scum. Some Devonians will point out that real Devon stock are just as Celtic as the Cornish (some Cornish go into palpitations at this, so be careful who you pass it on to....). Most see that part of the country as being slightly backward, but that's because we're just not as stuck-up as them clebbr volk oop countray
*The sisters near London sometimes go down to Fr. Tim's parish (link) to sing when he offers the TLM. Those in Cornwall were present at a public Eucharistic procession (linky - Fr. Chris was curate at my old parish!!) in Truro.
*oooooh, my youth is coming back to haunt me!
Puella, when were you there? Did you meet any of the sisters personally?
QUOTE(Thomist-in-Training @ Jun 21 2008, 10:16 PM)
Puella, when were you there? Did you meet any of the sisters personally?
I haven't met them; I just happen to see them involved with stuff connected to priests I know, and I have a decent knowledge of that part of the country (I have to say I balked a bit at the implication that Cornwall was in Wales - a bit like asking if Oregon is part of California or Arizona).
But, you know, if they're attending Corpus Christi processions in Truro and singing at TLMs in Blackfen, there's something quite kick-[holy]ass about them
"(I have to say I balked a bit at the implication that Cornwall was in Wales - a bit like asking if Oregon is part of California or Arizona)."
hehe... I have no geography, but it was more thinking "Is Cornwall its own country too stilll, or is that only Wales that I'm thinking of?" I do remember Cornwall from King Arthur stories... but I sure never learned European geography in school in any way, shape or form--hardly American, either--just the names of state capitals. I've been thinking I should go over it...
"There's something [] about them..." Yeah, they are very funny. (I mean in a good way, lively, getting into scrapes, enjoying a joke.) That seems like a good barometer of healthiness to me, along with their spirituality and apostolate.
As far as I can guess from three lunches with them, they do not have the monastic custom of a book being read during the meal; they chat about their day, or ask questions to visitors, and laugh a great deal, about almost anything. However, this could just be for a guest? I'm not sure.
During the day though I believe they work in silence or pray a rosary aloud.
hehe... I have no geography, but it was more thinking "Is Cornwall its own country too stilll, or is that only Wales that I'm thinking of?" I do remember Cornwall from King Arthur stories... but I sure never learned European geography in school in any way, shape or form--hardly American, either--just the names of state capitals. I've been thinking I should go over it...
"There's something [] about them..." Yeah, they are very funny. (I mean in a good way, lively, getting into scrapes, enjoying a joke.) That seems like a good barometer of healthiness to me, along with their spirituality and apostolate.
As far as I can guess from three lunches with them, they do not have the monastic custom of a book being read during the meal; they chat about their day, or ask questions to visitors, and laugh a great deal, about almost anything. However, this could just be for a guest? I'm not sure.
During the day though I believe they work in silence or pray a rosary aloud.
Still?! No matter what the Cornish might tell you, that part of Britain hasn't been independent of the London-ruled Anglo-Saxon-Norman-thing since 1066
(mind you, my USA geography is terrible)
(mind you, my USA geography is terrible)
Speaking of geography, a good way to learn some and enjoy the original topic of StGemma's thread at the same time is this new website with the FI Missions, "Missio Mariae". It lists the location of friaries in each country, Italy excepted; a brief history of how the FI came to be present there; and many geographical, cultural and historical facts about the country. The site is very well-organized, and it's exciting to see the faraway places like Kazakhstan and Benin with familiar habits there!
is this new website with the FI Missions, "Missio Mariae". It lists the location of friaries in each country, Italy excepted; a brief history of how the FI came to be present there; and many geographical, cultural and historical facts about the country. The site is very well-organized, and it's exciting to see the faraway places like Kazakhstan and Benin with familiar habits there!
QUOTE(Saint_Gemma_Galgani @ May 1 2008, 02:07 AM)
I just recently learned of the Franciscans of the Immaculate, and they sound like they would be a great fit for me, as they love Our Lady, are orthodox and fully obedient to the Holy Father, and are rather traditional (full habit, the aforementioned devotion to Our Lady, many Masses in Latin, and even the Extraordinary Form of the Mass occasionally). Before I write a letter to them expressing interest in their order, is there anything, good or bad, that I should know about them?
Ave Maria.
If you have a devotion to Saint Gemma Galgani, then the FI may be a good fit for you. As everyone else has said, they are a very orthodox order, and not afraid of a little penance. Some people consider the FI the marines of the Franciscans today, as most Franciscan orders today have become more relaxed and secularized.
As Jesus said to Saint Gemma Galgani, "My child, I have need of victims, and strong victims, who by their sufferings, tribulations, and difficulties, make amends for sinners and for their ingratitude."
If you read their rule of life, you will find that it is in line with the spirit of the greatest mystics of the Church; the spirit of "prayer, of poverty, and penance" (read their Traccia here). The FI are very contemplative for a Franciscan community; they place a strong emphasis on prayer and penance, because they realize that without it, all the works in the world--even the greatest miracles--will be to no avail without the prayers and sacrifices behind it.
As the angel at Fatima stated; "Make everything you do a sacrifice, and offer it as an act of reparation for the sins by which God is offended, and as a petition for the conversion of sinners".
They have a strong formation regime, which includes 3 rosaries per day, and 2 hours of Eucharistic adoration with Benediction, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, the Litany of Loretto, and a host of other powerful prayers, spiritual readings, and meditation. Many of their friaries have perpetual adoration. They place a strong emphasis on the vow of obedience, as they should, as the Saints have. They are allowed to talk during certain meals, but as I understand it, this is usually only on feast days and Sundays. Fridays they eat their meals on their knees. Dinner is optional, and fasting is encouraged. (they also know how to have fun, and enjoy their recreation time).
In a word, if you feel called to the Franciscan order, then there is little else out there that matches this community. You may look into the Franciscan Friars of the Primitive Observance, but if you are a traditional Catholic and love the latin Mass, chanted divine office (rather than spoken), and prayers in latin, then the FI is really your only option.
My prayers are with you in your discernment.
"Yes, I love the cross, the cross alone. I love it because I always see it behind Jesus' shoulders."
-Padre Pio
Blessings.
.
Thanks for the link and the other information, Rising Suns! I did a search to see if I could find the Traccia in the Italian too and guess what I found? An article on the Poor Clares of the Immaculate, whom I've been trying to learn more about for ages! Click on "Testimonia: Clarisse dell'Immacolata." The gist of it is that, after many Rosaries they were established in 2002 (at least the community at Aulla, Italy); they are true Poor Clares; they make the Marian Vow. There is a small picture there, although I don't know whether or not they still wear the same habit as the FSI.
So thank you for the link, you helped my curiosity on two points at once, since I am also interested to read the Traccia.
So thank you for the link, you helped my curiosity on two points at once, since I am also interested to read the Traccia.
Wow, actually not too long ago I got two books in the mail - Devotion to Our Lady and Come & Follow Me, both by Fr. Stefano M. Manelli - along with a beautiful two-page letter written by one of the sisters [in hot pink font, nonetheless..gotta love it!]. I have been doing a lot of reading lately, quite a bit for school, but the little I have started reading of the Come & Follow Me book is awesome. I really love the community and had been seeing them online a lot, looking at their site and peoples' links to pictures of their habits. Tonight, actually, when sorting through my stack of books I want to read, I made the connection between the books and the letter and the community I had been looking at online! I don't really remember contacting them initially, but it was smack in the middle of final exams when I got the stuff in the mail, so it's unlikely I would remember anyway. I got very good vibes from the letter and the book thus far, and though I don't feel as if I am called to the FI community, I really love it! It seems like a really beautiful congregation.
Bump for Selah
Ave Maria.
Just a postscript; if anyone is seriously considering entering, know that entrance is ordinarily August 14th (Feast Day of St. Maximilian Kolbe). However, that date can be pushed back a few months if necessity requires it (I was told usually no later than the end of September).
Blessings.
Just a postscript; if anyone is seriously considering entering, know that entrance is ordinarily August 14th (Feast Day of St. Maximilian Kolbe). However, that date can be pushed back a few months if necessity requires it (I was told usually no later than the end of September).
Blessings.
QUOTE(Thomist-in-Training @ Jul 12 2008, 09:09 PM)
Thanks for the link and the other information, Rising Suns! I did a search to see if I could find the Traccia in the Italian too and guess what I found? An article on the Poor Clares of the Immaculate, whom I've been trying to learn more about for ages! Click on "Testimonia: Clarisse dell'Immacolata." The gist of it is that, after many Rosaries they were established in 2002 (at least the community at Aulla, Italy); they are true Poor Clares; they make the Marian Vow. There is a small picture there, although I don't know whether or not they still wear the same habit as the FSI.
Wow! Neato! I am just after first hearing about them in the other thread on the new site of the Friars in Maine, NY. It looks like they are coming to make a foundation there. http://www.mtstfrancis.com/Poor_Clares.htm Awesome!
I can't believe I didn't notice this sooner! Slideshow on the AirMaria web site about the Poor Clares of the Immaculate.
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
Thank you for posting the slide show.
I thought it also worth noting that there is a new Shrine in WI being built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the friars of the Immaculate have been given the honor of staffing the Shrine once it is complete.
More here: http://www.airmaria.com/2008/02/26/picture...staffed-by-fis/
It is really quite beautiful.
Blessings.
I thought it also worth noting that there is a new Shrine in WI being built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the friars of the Immaculate have been given the honor of staffing the Shrine once it is complete.
More here: http://www.airmaria.com/2008/02/26/picture...staffed-by-fis/
It is really quite beautiful.
Blessings.
For those of us who cherish the Traditional Latin Mass, Gregorian Chant, and use of the latin language, I thought it worth posting this bit of news from December of 2007, detailing the new changes to the FI's liturgy (emphasis mine);
*************************
Lunk to Full Article
FI News - Liturgical Changes at Griswold
Ave Maria!
The last few months, at the North American Mother House for the Franciscans of the Immaculate in Griswold, CT have been marked with great excitement, ever since the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross when the extra ordinary form of the Mass (Traditional Latin Mass or TLM) was celebrated with great solemnity by Fr. Peter Fehlner, who, following the Mass in the sacristy turned to the Acolytes and commented joyfully €śthat is the Mass that St. Peter celebrated€?. The following day Fr. Angelo Geiger celebrated a beautiful low Mass and the momentum and zeal for the TLM has been growing rapidly ever since.
With the visitation of our Most Reverend Father Founder and Minister General, Fr. Stefano Manelli, came the news that he desired the novices to be proficient in serving the TLM as soon as possible. Of course, this news was received with great enthusiasm on the part of the novices who were given a few days a week to learn the detailed rubrics of serving it. Currently, the Griswold friary offers the TLM periodically, but with ever increasing frequency especially on Wednesdays for the 5:30 St. Joseph Mass, and for the evening Masses on feast days in honor of Our Lady. Diligently, the friars are preparing to celebrate a Missa Cantata (a Sung High Mass without Deacon and Sub-Deacon) with great solemnity for Christmas Eve Mass. To ensure that the Mass is offered with the greatest dignity and reverence as it has been passed down to us by Holy Mother Church, a careful study and preparation has been undertaken to learn the detailed but beautiful rubrics for the varying degrees of solemnity for which the Mass can be offered. Thankfully, we have had wonderful resources at our disposal and owe special thanks to the Society of St. John Cantius through their web site Sancta Missa, as well as receiving hands-on guidance from The Saint Gregory Society in New Haven, CT which is dedicated to preserving the TLM and has been doing so for over 20 years.
All this excitement about the liturgy has spilled over to the ordinary form of the Mass (Novus Ordo) inspiring our Father Guardian, Fr. Ignatius to announce that all Masses at the friary will be celebrated Ad Orientem (when the priest faces east, with the people, toward Our Lord in the tabernacle). There has also been an increasing number of Novus Ordo Masses offered in Latin, including our Sunday liturgy. Currently, the friars are working towards developing a schola choir to sing the Gregorian Mass parts for the ordinary and extraordinary forms of the Mass. Also we are implementing the long planned switch to Latin for our community prayers at the Griswold friary, such as meal prayers, visitation to the Blessed Sacrament, and a daily Rosary.
For all this excitement we sincerely say Deo Gracias, Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, and Praised be Jesus and Mary, now and forever
Ave Maria!
+++
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FI News - Liturgical Changes at Griswold
Ave Maria!
The last few months, at the North American Mother House for the Franciscans of the Immaculate in Griswold, CT have been marked with great excitement, ever since the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross when the extra ordinary form of the Mass (Traditional Latin Mass or TLM) was celebrated with great solemnity by Fr. Peter Fehlner, who, following the Mass in the sacristy turned to the Acolytes and commented joyfully €śthat is the Mass that St. Peter celebrated€?. The following day Fr. Angelo Geiger celebrated a beautiful low Mass and the momentum and zeal for the TLM has been growing rapidly ever since.
With the visitation of our Most Reverend Father Founder and Minister General, Fr. Stefano Manelli, came the news that he desired the novices to be proficient in serving the TLM as soon as possible. Of course, this news was received with great enthusiasm on the part of the novices who were given a few days a week to learn the detailed rubrics of serving it. Currently, the Griswold friary offers the TLM periodically, but with ever increasing frequency especially on Wednesdays for the 5:30 St. Joseph Mass, and for the evening Masses on feast days in honor of Our Lady. Diligently, the friars are preparing to celebrate a Missa Cantata (a Sung High Mass without Deacon and Sub-Deacon) with great solemnity for Christmas Eve Mass. To ensure that the Mass is offered with the greatest dignity and reverence as it has been passed down to us by Holy Mother Church, a careful study and preparation has been undertaken to learn the detailed but beautiful rubrics for the varying degrees of solemnity for which the Mass can be offered. Thankfully, we have had wonderful resources at our disposal and owe special thanks to the Society of St. John Cantius through their web site Sancta Missa, as well as receiving hands-on guidance from The Saint Gregory Society in New Haven, CT which is dedicated to preserving the TLM and has been doing so for over 20 years.
All this excitement about the liturgy has spilled over to the ordinary form of the Mass (Novus Ordo) inspiring our Father Guardian, Fr. Ignatius to announce that all Masses at the friary will be celebrated Ad Orientem (when the priest faces east, with the people, toward Our Lord in the tabernacle). There has also been an increasing number of Novus Ordo Masses offered in Latin, including our Sunday liturgy. Currently, the friars are working towards developing a schola choir to sing the Gregorian Mass parts for the ordinary and extraordinary forms of the Mass. Also we are implementing the long planned switch to Latin for our community prayers at the Griswold friary, such as meal prayers, visitation to the Blessed Sacrament, and a daily Rosary.
For all this excitement we sincerely say Deo Gracias, Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, and Praised be Jesus and Mary, now and forever
Ave Maria!
+++
What wonderful news! Since last Sunday I've become a big fan of the TLM. Hurray for Summorum Pontificum and FSSP and all those orders which treasure, offer, assist at and attend the TLM. It's a great thing.
QUOTE(Thomist-in-Training @ Jul 28 2008, 08:43 PM)
I can't believe I didn't notice this sooner! Slideshow on the AirMaria web site about the Poor Clares of the Immaculate.
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
Oh wow, how beautiful!! Thanks for sharing this! Grazie tanto!
I received a reply from one of the friars in NY the other day. Here's some of the email ..
QUOTE
Ave Maria!
The Poor Clares of the Immaculate were officially erected by a decree of the Holy See on May 8, 2002. They now have 4 monasteries, with a total of about 60 nuns, most of them in their twenties and thirties. Together with the friars and sisters, they are part of a single religious family, united by the same founders, the same Marian-Franciscan spirituality and the same Vow of Total Consecration to Our Lady. Our common goal is to bring a new springtime of grace and holiness to the Church by returning to the origins of the Seraphic Order, founded at the little Church of St. Mary of the Angels, which St. Francis lovingly rebuilt with his own hands.
The Poor Clares of the Immaculate live according to the original Rule of our Holy Mother St. Clare, with no mitigations, and the Traccia Mariana, a document drawn up by our founder, Fr. Stefano M. Manelli, which gives clear indications on how to faithfully live out the charism of Our Blessed Father Francis in the modern world, according to the example of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe. They wear a grey-blue habit (like the friars and sisters), with a sky-blue veil and the Miraculous Medal worn over the breast.
The four existing monasteries are located in Italy, but young women from other parts of the world have begun to enter the Order as well, which gives us hope that in a few years' time they will begin to found monasteries in other countries, and on other continents ...
The Poor Clares of the Immaculate were officially erected by a decree of the Holy See on May 8, 2002. They now have 4 monasteries, with a total of about 60 nuns, most of them in their twenties and thirties. Together with the friars and sisters, they are part of a single religious family, united by the same founders, the same Marian-Franciscan spirituality and the same Vow of Total Consecration to Our Lady. Our common goal is to bring a new springtime of grace and holiness to the Church by returning to the origins of the Seraphic Order, founded at the little Church of St. Mary of the Angels, which St. Francis lovingly rebuilt with his own hands.
The Poor Clares of the Immaculate live according to the original Rule of our Holy Mother St. Clare, with no mitigations, and the Traccia Mariana, a document drawn up by our founder, Fr. Stefano M. Manelli, which gives clear indications on how to faithfully live out the charism of Our Blessed Father Francis in the modern world, according to the example of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe. They wear a grey-blue habit (like the friars and sisters), with a sky-blue veil and the Miraculous Medal worn over the breast.
The four existing monasteries are located in Italy, but young women from other parts of the world have begun to enter the Order as well, which gives us hope that in a few years' time they will begin to found monasteries in other countries, and on other continents ...
Reading Fr. Tim's blog, I've learnt that the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate also have a house near the Friary in Cornwall as well as near London.
Oh dear...I would love to join the Franciscan Sisters...I am discerning now. What an honor to be a part of this order, should it come to pass...
Here is a nice picture of the Sisters in the Indiana location.
Oh, those veils!
They're lovely, aren't they?
Please forgive me if this is too far off topic, but I wanted to ask everyone in this thread to please remember me in their prayers, as I will be entering the FFI in just under two weeks.
Your prayers are very much appreciated.
In Corde Matris,
-Davide
Your prayers are very much appreciated.
In Corde Matris,
-Davide
QUOTE(Rising_Suns @ Aug 6 2008, 10:56 PM)
Please forgive me if this is too far off topic, but I wanted to ask everyone in this thread to please remember me in their prayers, as I will be entering the FFI in just under two weeks.
Your prayers are very much appreciated.
In Corde Matris,
-Davide
Your prayers are very much appreciated.
In Corde Matris,
-Davide
That's wonderful! Congratulations! God bless you!
13AUG UNITED DEPART 647A INDIANAPOLIS ARRIVE 441P
5 more days until my first visit and 2 week stay! i'm getting more excited as i learn just how much media they cover with all their videos on the net i'm seeing, as well as the recent coverage of the dedication of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which is staffed by the FI. i have a very special devotion to OLG so that works out nicely.
coincidentally (..right!), i will be there for the feast of St. Max (one of their patrons) on the 14th, and of Our Lady's Assumption on the 15th, commemorating my 1 year anniversary of Marian consecration in Czestochowa with the Fr. Kolbe Missionaries.
*crosses hands*
5 more days until my first visit and 2 week stay! i'm getting more excited as i learn just how much media they cover with all their videos on the net i'm seeing, as well as the recent coverage of the dedication of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which is staffed by the FI. i have a very special devotion to OLG so that works out nicely.
coincidentally (..right!), i will be there for the feast of St. Max (one of their patrons) on the 14th, and of Our Lady's Assumption on the 15th, commemorating my 1 year anniversary of Marian consecration in Czestochowa with the Fr. Kolbe Missionaries.
*crosses hands*
QUOTE(Thomist-in-Training @ Jun 19 2008, 07:58 PM)
They kiss the floor when they enter and leave the chapel.
that just made my day! the first time i experienced that was when i first visited the CFR's. since then i have so wished that the order i go to would do that as well!
QUOTE(MandyKhatoon @ Jun 20 2008, 05:20 AM)
I had a friend who was discerning with the Franciscans of the Immaculate and she has a type of arthritis that was the cause of her leaving a different order. When she wrote to them expressing interest to their Community they told her that, "nobody is too sick to serve the Lord" and that she would still be eligible to join their Community. I just thought that was really cool and I was very impressed by that.
i know just the person (who had to leave due to health) that would be delighted to hear that!
fyi, the skateboarding brother from down under,
Fra Gabriel Mary, FI does all things for the Immaculate near our Friary in Perth, Australia. He inspires the youth to aim for higher things as he skateboards to the tune of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.”
http://www.airmaria.com/2007/03/25/video-f...erts-ave-maria/
http://revver.com/video/953895/fra-gabriel...erts-ave-maria/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKX7QmaL_bw
Roving Reporter #38: Fra Gabriel M. of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Ave Maria from the Land Down Under! In this Roving Reporter, Fra Gabriel discusses his unique apostolate - skateboarding, and how this unique apostolate fits into the daily life of a Franciscan of the Immaculate. Ave Maria! +++
http://www.airmaria.com/2008/06/05/video-r...dy-of-guadalupe
FI News #32: Friar Gabriel Skates Again
Ave Maria! Friar Gabriel’s brother, friar Didicus, himself being an accomplished skater, recently visited our two friaries in Western Australia, and while he was there shot another video of Friar ...
http://www.airmaria.com/2008/03/14/video-f...l-skates-again/
http://www.revver.com/video/744629/fi-news...l-skates-again/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKUJZ7hutQQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5kmuEW3W3Y
===========
i think it's awesome. i try to skate a little. i love to snowboard. like to do crazy stuff sometimes.. mountain bike, offroading, etc. like he and JP2 with skiing, i'd like to hit the halfpipe in full habit to evangelize someday..
Fra Gabriel Mary, FI does all things for the Immaculate near our Friary in Perth, Australia. He inspires the youth to aim for higher things as he skateboards to the tune of Schubert’s “Ave Maria.”
http://www.airmaria.com/2007/03/25/video-f...erts-ave-maria/
http://revver.com/video/953895/fra-gabriel...erts-ave-maria/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKX7QmaL_bw
Roving Reporter #38: Fra Gabriel M. of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Ave Maria from the Land Down Under! In this Roving Reporter, Fra Gabriel discusses his unique apostolate - skateboarding, and how this unique apostolate fits into the daily life of a Franciscan of the Immaculate. Ave Maria! +++
http://www.airmaria.com/2008/06/05/video-r...dy-of-guadalupe
FI News #32: Friar Gabriel Skates Again
Ave Maria! Friar Gabriel’s brother, friar Didicus, himself being an accomplished skater, recently visited our two friaries in Western Australia, and while he was there shot another video of Friar ...
http://www.airmaria.com/2008/03/14/video-f...l-skates-again/
http://www.revver.com/video/744629/fi-news...l-skates-again/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKUJZ7hutQQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5kmuEW3W3Y
===========
i think it's awesome. i try to skate a little. i love to snowboard. like to do crazy stuff sometimes.. mountain bike, offroading, etc. like he and JP2 with skiing, i'd like to hit the halfpipe in full habit to evangelize someday..
QUOTE(johnnydigit @ Aug 9 2008, 03:29 AM)
as well as the recent coverage of the dedication of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which is staffed by the FI. i have a very special devotion to OLG so that works out nicely.
I was very excited to see coverage last night on EWTN's the World Over Live. The new Shrine is truly magnificent, and the FFI have been given a great honor to be the keepers of it.
JD, I hope your trip turns out well. Please be assured of my prayers. And please remember me in yours.
Perhaps we will both see each other in blue habits one day.
Blessings.
QUOTE(Rising_Suns @ Jul 11 2008, 11:51 PM)
Fridays they eat their meals on their knees. Dinner is optional, and fasting is encouraged. (they also know how to have fun, and enjoy their recreation time).
if you are a traditional Catholic and love the latin Mass, chanted divine office (rather than spoken), and prayers in latin, then the FI is really your only option.
if you are a traditional Catholic and love the latin Mass, chanted divine office (rather than spoken), and prayers in latin, then the FI is really your only option.
i've died and gone to heaven!
3 more days! Fr. says there are 2 more vocations flying in that evening as well.. prayers!
QUOTE(Thomist-in-Training @ Jul 28 2008, 08:43 PM)
I can't believe I didn't notice this sooner! Slideshow on the AirMaria web site about the Poor Clares of the Immaculate.
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
edit. P.S. This Italian sister has the most lovely voice... Roma mi manca! I miss Rome!
she does! i love listening to Italian sisters as it reminds me of Italy, too!
I just received word that there may be up to eight (8) new postulants entering the FFI this year, which is more than last year. They seem to be growing steadily with young vocations each year, most of whom are in their early 20's.
I should note, I am not sure this number includes the aspirants/vocations guests staying at the Indiana friary or not (including you JD).
Blessings,
-Davide
I should note, I am not sure this number includes the aspirants/vocations guests staying at the Indiana friary or not (including you JD).
Blessings,
-Davide
Oh, I can't believe it! Well, maybe you won't be able to answer a while if you're staying two weeks... but JohnnyDigit, I didn't realize you were going to Indiana!! I was there too, one of the three girls with the Sisters for Assumption etc.! I was the one with the glasses and brown hair and the fancier mantilla... are you the Vietnamese one? If you read this send me a PM and tell me how it went...
Well, since I had the privilege of spending some time with the Sisters in Indiana, and have some free time, I will post a bit more about them.
They are very happy, almost boisterously so some days during recreation (which sometimes involves outdoor games--not actually tag and foursquare, but that sort of thing; or UNO with the "Ave Maria" house rule) and dinner. They asked for jokes and also told us many. They also shared many humorous stories of pranks and misadventures of the other friars and sisters. My favorite was the postulant who pretended to be levitating and convinced her co-postulants, who ran to call Mother...
They have a great deal of common prayer: Office of Readings (around 5:00, or shifted to afternoon), Morning Prayer, Holy Mass (usually, in Indiana, they sing hymns in the choir loft), Midday Prayer, Vespers (usually with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament), and Compline, and two Rosaries in the chapel. They also, after the example of Padre Pio, pray rosaries whenever they can "in the nooks and crannies of the day" as it were: walking, waiting for something, in the car etc. Either St. Pio, or Father Stefano their Founder, exhorts one to always have the Rosary in one's hand, and the Sisters seemed to, except when cleaning... but even then sometimes, one sister will lead aloud, and say 'First Hail Mary full of grace,' 'Second Hail Mary...' etc. to keep track. They have 1 hour of meditation and 2 hours of study daily. There is a wonderful blue book of chant called the 'Liber seraphicus' with chants for feasts, unchanging things like the Magnificat, Marian antiphons and so on. Right now in the US they still use the "Christian Prayer" books but they want very, very much to get 1962 (1961 is the date of the edition, I think) breviaries--Even having two would help. So, if you have some, send them to the address at the MaryMediatrix.com website ('religious life--Sisters') and they will be eternally (no joke) grateful.
They have many benefactors and we ate all kinds of things, the "misca Francescana," Franciscan mix, such as scrambled eggs with tuna in them (tasty!). The food is different every day, but there is always plenty, with treats for feast days, less for a monthly day of recollection (maybe Fridays too, but the Friday we were there was Assumption so I can't tell). The photo Rising_Suns posted is from last year and they already have an all different group of sisters except one--the Italian sister is still there (she is very funny and did many imitations, including of us!) and then there are 3 other Filipina sisters (not the ones in the photo) and 1 American sister right now, besides her; the FSI move around very often, it seems.
By the way Rising_Suns also put that entrance date is Aug. 14--but girls, do not despair! It seems the sisters (as opposed to the friars) don't have a fixed entrance date, just "some time in August or September." Maybe later even--they do an aspirancy, which varies in length depending on how quickly they can get a visa for you to go to Italy, and how quickly you learn Italian once there. They accept quite young girls also, 16 and up it seems. They don't have a very formal application process, I guess because they are still small.
If someone has questions, I have many stories and things of course that I will be happy to share (if I have any time to spend on the internet in the next few weeks, which is not certain). Ave Maria!
They are very happy, almost boisterously so some days during recreation (which sometimes involves outdoor games--not actually tag and foursquare, but that sort of thing; or UNO with the "Ave Maria" house rule) and dinner. They asked for jokes and also told us many. They also shared many humorous stories of pranks and misadventures of the other friars and sisters. My favorite was the postulant who pretended to be levitating and convinced her co-postulants, who ran to call Mother...
They have a great deal of common prayer: Office of Readings (around 5:00, or shifted to afternoon), Morning Prayer, Holy Mass (usually, in Indiana, they sing hymns in the choir loft), Midday Prayer, Vespers (usually with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament), and Compline, and two Rosaries in the chapel. They also, after the example of Padre Pio, pray rosaries whenever they can "in the nooks and crannies of the day" as it were: walking, waiting for something, in the car etc. Either St. Pio, or Father Stefano their Founder, exhorts one to always have the Rosary in one's hand, and the Sisters seemed to, except when cleaning... but even then sometimes, one sister will lead aloud, and say 'First Hail Mary full of grace,' 'Second Hail Mary...' etc. to keep track. They have 1 hour of meditation and 2 hours of study daily. There is a wonderful blue book of chant called the 'Liber seraphicus' with chants for feasts, unchanging things like the Magnificat, Marian antiphons and so on. Right now in the US they still use the "Christian Prayer" books but they want very, very much to get 1962 (1961 is the date of the edition, I think) breviaries--Even having two would help. So, if you have some, send them to the address at the MaryMediatrix.com website ('religious life--Sisters') and they will be eternally (no joke) grateful.
They have many benefactors and we ate all kinds of things, the "misca Francescana," Franciscan mix, such as scrambled eggs with tuna in them (tasty!). The food is different every day, but there is always plenty, with treats for feast days, less for a monthly day of recollection (maybe Fridays too, but the Friday we were there was Assumption so I can't tell). The photo Rising_Suns posted is from last year and they already have an all different group of sisters except one--the Italian sister is still there (she is very funny and did many imitations, including of us!) and then there are 3 other Filipina sisters (not the ones in the photo) and 1 American sister right now, besides her; the FSI move around very often, it seems.
By the way Rising_Suns also put that entrance date is Aug. 14--but girls, do not despair! It seems the sisters (as opposed to the friars) don't have a fixed entrance date, just "some time in August or September." Maybe later even--they do an aspirancy, which varies in length depending on how quickly they can get a visa for you to go to Italy, and how quickly you learn Italian once there. They accept quite young girls also, 16 and up it seems. They don't have a very formal application process, I guess because they are still small.
If someone has questions, I have many stories and things of course that I will be happy to share (if I have any time to spend on the internet in the next few weeks, which is not certain). Ave Maria!
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