University of St. Francis

The series gained a bit of momentum during the last week, and we are pleased to share one more reflection:

The essence of the Franciscan movement is to “observe the holy Gospel.” It is easy to see proclaiming the “Good News” in word and deed is what it means to be Franciscan. Begun over one hundred years ago by the Joliet Franciscans, USF continues their legacy.

At the Northern entrance to the University of St. Francis campus in Joliet, IL, stands a statue of our patron St. Francis. Created and cast for our centennial celebration in 2020, the young, smiling Francis reaches down to “scratch the ears” of a Saint Bernard dog – our mascot, Bernie – next, to him. His other hand extends incarnating the heart of our Mission Statement that we are “a welcoming community of learners.”

This message is delivered to every new hire and every new student in their respective, orientations. It is delivered as an admonition- in that this is who the University of St. Francis is, who we are called to be and the message our actions must proclaim. Though not explicitly stated, it is expanded through our four particular values reflecting those of the Franciscan tradition:

· INTEGRITY: We are challenged not to look down upon anyone or feel superior (or inferior) but simply at different stages on the journey. (Minority, a stance for First Order Franciscans.)

· COMPASSION: We acknowledge our vulnerabilities and weaknesses while standing strong and true that we are made in the God’s image, which God called “very good.” (Poverty, a stance for Second Order Franciscans.)

· SERVICE: We participate in growing in likeness via learning from the sisters and brothers we encounter along the way to wholeness and holiness. (Conversion, a stance for Third Order Franciscans.)

· RESPECT: We are invited every moment to see with God’s eyes the wonder and beauty in all creatures and creation. (Contemplation, a stance for all Franciscans.)

And, in our welcoming everyone receives a small San Damiano cross to place on their University lanyard. The hope is that it will be, as it was for Francis, a key to open the door to their vocation whereby they will be able to “contribute to the world through service and leadership.”

P.S. A Saint Clare statue is on our “wish list” as our complementary patron, who will lead us into our next centennial celebration.

We are so very grateful to everyone who contributed to this series.

It is our sincere hope that this will provide a foundation for more AFCU

collaboration moving forward whether its Franciscan Month or something else!

All the best for the rest of the semester!

Pace e bene!