Mission & Heritage Week 2024
Each October 4th, the Felician Sisters and their ministries began a week-long celebration of Mission and Heritage. The week begins on the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, who was a primary influence on Felician foundress, Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska. Each year, Mission and Heritage week explores what it means to be Felician through the unique vision of each ministry. At Mooncrest Neighborhood Programs (MNP), it was both a joyous and contemplative experience.
Students in the after-school program began the week with a presentation about the national Smoky the Bear and Woodsy Owl poster contest by Bonnie Keen of the Moon Garden Club. The children learned some history of the two iconic characters as well as their important message then they got to work designing entries for this year’s contest. Environmental stewardship is a fundamental aspect of Mission and Heritage activities each year.
Creativity was also a part of Sr. Jeanine’s presentation on the first five Felician Sisters who came to North America. Children colored boats, trains and wagons then filled them with the items that the sisters would need to do their work in America. Many of the students were excited to learn that the earliest Felician Sisters cared for children with educational programs just as Mooncrest Neighborhood Programs does today.
MNP was also lucky to receive a visit from members of the Felician General Council. The sisters were< greeted by an enthusiastic rendition of “I’ve Got That Joy” before taking a tour of the Sr. Rene Procopio Activity Center. The council also spent some time learning about the Mooncrest community and the programs and services offered at the center.
Adults in the community were also engaged in Mission & Heritage week through a conversation that focused on ‘joy in the midst of sorrow.’ As stories of the hardships the pioneer sisters faced in establishing in North America were relayed, participants reflected on their own challenges and the complexity of joy as it both coexists with adversity and in spite of it. The group recounted stories of hope, compassion, and transformation that emphasized the relevancy and perpetuity of the Felician charism.
The first five Felician Sisters arrived in North America 150 years ago. Throughout the coming year, there will be many opportunities to explore Felician history and heritage, and to reflect on the pioneering spirit that has inspired so much and so many. Mooncrest Neighborhood Programs is ready to embrace the Felician charism and live in joy.
