EVENTS AND PHOTOS
Upcoming Events
Associate Signing & Jubilee 2026
Join us on August the 22nd at 2pm in the Sister’s Chapel for our new Associate signing and Jubilee celebrating our Associates. A reception to follow.
Pancake Breakfast 2026
Sisters and Associates will meet for on October 3rd from 8:30am until 10:30 am for a pancake breakfast in Room 226 in ICA Hall.
us on August the 22nd
Associate Prayer Day 2026
Participants enjoyed a day of prayer, reflection, and baking on June 27 in Indianapolis. Associate Michele Kite coordinated the use of a meeting space at Our Lady of Lourdes parish. During introductions everyone mentioned their favorite bread which led to prayer with reflections on bread making and baking. Various “bread” photos were available for everyone to choose for reflection.
Dividing into two groups, the women made Cinnamon Swirl bread, an activity that created an understanding of working as a team and the importance of accepting the diverse ways people process what they read. Lunch provided a chance for people to catch up with each other; some Associates had not seen each other since last year’s retreat in Indianapolis! Good food and laughter filled the room. The video, “Bread and Life: There’s purpose to the Process” was viewed and questions were provided for a thoughtful discussion about the stages of bread making compared to the stages in our lives. Everyone left with a small loaf of bread and an appreciation for the timing and process of their spiritual journey
Memorial Service 2026
Associates, Sisters, friends, and relatives gathered in the Hillenbrand Feldhaus on April 18 for a Memorial Service and brunch. Sister Maureen Irvin welcomed everyone to the event that also commemorated the Sisters 175th Anniversary. Yogi Wess, Associate, invited guests to participate in a gift basket raffle through the morning, and interviewed Sister Mary Beth Gianoli and Associate LaTonya Turner with questions designed to aid in our understanding of Associate formation and commitment.
After a meal prayer and a delicious brunch catered by Blancos, Sister Barbara Leonhard graciously answered Yogi’s questions about the Oldenburg Franciscan Community. Musicians and members of the Sisters’ choir led an inspirational and uplifting prayer service that honored the Associates and Sisters who died from 2020-2025.
Winners of the basket raffle were announced and the many groups who helped with this event were thanked with sincere appreciation.
Brat Fry 2026
Social Gathering
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, the Associate Office offered a Franciscan Trivia game day for Sisters and Associates. Participants answered questions about Saints Francis and Clare and early Franciscan followers.
Associates prepared a lunch of grilled cheese, tomato soup and brownies. The afternoon trivia was about the history of the Oldenburg Community. Everyone enjoyed the chance to share stories and learn more about the people, dates, and events that are part of their rich heritage.
The first team to answer correctly received a yellow paper and whoever had the most papers in the morning and at the end of the day received a gift. Thank you to all of the Associates who helped cook, serve, ask questions, support the teams and donate prizes.
Prayer Day 2026
In other words, if something goes wrong during the bread making process, you can always do something with what you have. The Bread making process parallel’s so beautifully with our lives. When we knead bread, it is massaged, and then when it rises it needs to be punched down. When in life, have we risen to an occasion only to be punched or knocked down?
Guests enjoyed a delicious meal of soup, homemade bread, and pie for dessert. The soups were provided by Sister Haus here in Oldenburg.
Pancake Breakfast 2025
Associates have been cooking bacon, sausage, pancakes, and eggs for ten years now, first in February and later in October to take advantage of better weather.
It provided an opportunity to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and enjoyable conversation over a cup of coffee.
Supper and Pie Eating Contest
The evening included a pie eating contest between Associates Mark Stenger, Carolyn Meyer, and Jim Meyer. The winner hands down (because that was the rule) was Jim. Almost a dozen different types of pies were served for dessert following the contest. A huge thank you to the Associates who made pies, plated and served them and for all of the assistance setting and cleaning up. We appreciate the extra time Food Service Co-workers gave to provide a delicious meal and those who stayed following the meal.
We are always happy to spend time with the Sisters here and we thank you for celebrating our pie day with us!
Associate Signing 2025
CONGRATULATIONS AND WELCOME TO OUR NEW ASSOCIATES!
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, Prospective Associates Karla Kinkade and Mark Stenger signed their Associate Commitments during a prayer service which focused on the theme of light. Both Karla and Mark have and will continue to be a shining light for those they have encountered. In addition to the signing ceremony, we also celebrated several Associate Jubilarians: Constance Ferrari, Joe Bach, Ted & Marilyn McCormick, and Carol Vaughn.
On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Prospective Associates Emmy Gray, Sandi Miller, and Lisa Schrand celebrated Associate Commitment. We wish them many blessings as they continue on their Franciscan Journey.
