Wheaton Franciscans

The Wheaton Franciscans are the United States province of an international congregation, the Franciscan Sisters, Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

We are a community of vowed women (Sisters) and covenant (associate) women and men, whose mission is to live the Gospel following the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi, and our foundress Mother M. Clara Pfaender.

We are a welcoming community of faith striving together to be instruments of peace, hope and justice in our world today. We invite you to join us as seekers - in prayer - in worship - in personal growth - in mission - in community.

We live this mission in our daily lives with open hearts and a desire to be a presence of blessing in the heart of the world.

Through our philosophy of Human and Community Development, we emphasize:

Respecting each person:

* We respect and uphold the sacredness of human life and the dignity and worth of each person. (Gn. 1:26-27; 2:7)

* We empower each other and others in physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth and healing. (Jn. 10:10; Mt. 10:7-8, 12)

* We respond to those in need, giving preference to the poor and oppressed. (Is. 58:6-7; Mt. 5:7)

* We promote justice and peace for all in collaboration with others. (Is. 42:6-7; 1 Cor. 12:4-7, 12)

Creating caring communities:

* We create caring communities in which the needs of those serving and being served are met. (Eph. 2:19-22)

* We live a life centered in Christ, integrating prayer and action. (Gal. 2:20; Mt. 5:13-16)

* We witness the gospel values of justice, reconciliation, peace and love. (Is. 61:1; Jn. 13:34-35)

* We foster shared responsibility. (Gal. 6.2, 5, 7, 9; Ex. 18:24-26)