Meet our 2025 ASSOCIATE jubilarians
25 year associate jubilarians
Ruth BeelerMy Associate membership means much to me. I feel connected to the Sisters in a special way and appreciate access to their chapel and participation in the Masses there. I also enjoy our monthly dialog with the Sisters on the third Friday of the month.
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chris hannigan-wiehnIt is hard to believe that it has been 25 years since I was accepted into the Associate Relationship. These years are very precious to me. This relationship has enriched my relationship with God and my commitment to serving my family and community. It is a blessing to me to have a community of people who are role models working for peace and justice. The Franciscan Charism has provided me with a guide in living out the Gospel message. I thank God for my aunts, Sisters Mary Catherine, Anna Marie, and Olivia Marie, my contact sister, Sr. Carmen de Barrios, our Associate Directors, Sisters and Associates, whom I have journeyed with over the years.
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carol vaughnBeing an Associate to the Sisters of St. Francis Oldenburg has given me a greater faith in Jesus. Being in the Sisters presence makes my life happier and more fulfilled. I hope I am a better person.
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15 year associate jubilarians
br. joseph bachAs I reflect on being in relationship with the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, as an Associate for the last 15 years, I am filled with gratitude and awe. Although I am celebrating 15 years officially, the Sisters first entered my life 50 years ago when I began 1st grade at St. Ann in Hamilton, Ohio. Through the years, the Sisters have been a constant in my life introducing me to a life-long relationship with St. Francis and nurturing my faith development and my vocation through all of the ups and downs of life. The Sisters have been there through it all! I had always felt called to a deeper relationship with the Sisters of St. Francis and, when I realized that I could formalize this important relationship, I began discernment. Although distance has kept me away from Oldenburg, my Associate relationship is one of the most significant relationships in my life. I know that my Sisters and my sister and brother Associates are with me in all that I do through a spirit of Franciscan fraternitas that strengthens us as members of the same Franciscan family that continues in the same spirit of Mother Theresa Hackelmeier. Ever “mindful of our call to be a presence of Jesus Christ, especially to those who are powerless, who are poor, who are oppressed,” I am humbled as I strive to live the Gospel with my Sisters, the Associates, and my own community of Franciscan friars by responding to the needs of the world together.
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constance ferrariMy Associate relationships continue to evolve, cultivating my spiritual growth certainly, but also fostering invaluable friendships. It began with a simple connection to a few Franciscans, but throughout these 15 years, I learned how to broaden and strengthen my affiliations with both Sisters and Associates, and in most cases, develop lasting rapport. What a blessing to be a member of this “second” family. I treasure it immeasurably.
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ted and marilyn mccormickOur Associate Relationship allowed us the opportunity to meet like minded individuals who are pace and justice minded like we are. We are grateful for having had the opportunity to serve the poor by feeding the hungry and serving the St. Francis Mission in KY. We both enjoyed our small Associate group and are most grateful to all the Sisters and Associates.
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beth pettigrewEven after 15 years, I feel like I am still growing into my Associate relationship! With family and full time work obligations I can’t spend the time I’d like at Oldenburg and with the Sisters. But, I know that my Franciscan roots are growing deeper, even if the branches aren’t as visible as I wish. I love reflecting on the charisms of St. Francis and St. Clare, and I so admire the Sisters and their Franciscan way of life. I am eternally grateful to Sr. Donna, my contact person – but more importantly, my mentor and my cousin! Also to Srs. Marlene, Pat, Miriam and Millie – my inspiration and Tohatchi family!
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jane schaeferThe Associate relationship continues to offer opportunities for me to grow in my relationship with God while at the same time watching others experience Christ-filled moments in their lives. It has been a journey filled with countless opportunities to be in relationship with the Sisters and other men and women who aspire to live the Franciscan Charism. I appreciate the opportunities to model for family and friends the service component of the Franciscan Charism.
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lois schraderMy Associate Relationship has always been enriched by the enjoyment I received when I was able to gather in person with Sisters and Associates. I chose to become an Associate so I could gather with other like minded Catholics who would challenge me and help me to grow in my faith.
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dan schlueterBeing an Associate connects me to wonderful people of like mind, and provides an incentive to lead a better and more giving existence. I am forever grateful and blessed to have this in my life.
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mary schlueterBeing an Associate has made me treasure and understand the importance of God in my everyday life. It has helped to make me more fully appreciate the gifts God has given me, including of course my husband, children and grandchildren and yes our basset hound.
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clara szucsFor several years, my good friend and former classmate at the academy, Sr. Mary Ann Stoffregen, had gently been asking me every once in a while, if I would consider becoming an Associate. One day, I decided I would explore the Associate Relationship in hopes of finding spiritual support that I was not finding elsewhere. Sr. Mary Ann became my contact person. The love and hospitality I receive is life giving to me and I always come home with a smile on my face and a lighter bounce in my step.
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