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Religious Studies Resources: Franciscan Resources

Franciscan Values

Just as the Franciscan values strengthen the character of students, they likewise strengthen the quality of a Felician education. Grounded in the fundamental beliefs of respect for human dignity, compassion, transformation, solidarity with the poor, justice and peace, reverence, diversity, service, and joy, these ideals challenge students to develop their character as much as their grades. With an emphasis on humility and solidarity with the poor, we hope to transform students to have an open mind and heart while examining their role in the world. We work hard to graduate students with not only character, but conviction – students who will work for justice and peace in the spirit of our Franciscan tradition.

A summary of our nine Felician Franciscan Core Values is as follows:

  • Respect for Human Dignity: We believe that every person is created by God; therefore, we respect the dignity of every person, regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic status. We must demonstrate a reverence for and commitment to promoting and protecting the dignity of persons at all times.
  • Compassion: We display an empathetic consciousness of “other” by demonstrating an appreciation of the needs and circumstances of those with whom we share our world. We recognize and affirm the good works and accomplishments of others, and provide caring support to those in need of our help.
  • Transformation: We embrace the transformative process that encourages an open mind and heart, leading to continuous improvement of the person and ministry.
  • Solidarity with the Poor: We labor and collaborate to ensure that the needs of the poor and vulnerable are met through advocacy and action.
  • Justice and Peace: We strive to forge right relationships…to recreate a sustainable environment through responsible use of the resources entrusted to us…to promote the common good…all in pursuit of peace.

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Who are the Felician Sisters?

Who Are The Felician Sisters?

Responding to the needy (especially neglected children and the elderly), Sophia Truszkowska, Blessed Mary Angela, founded the Felician Sisters in Warsaw, Poland, in 1855.  The name “Sisters of St. Felix” or Felician Sisters was given to her first followers by people who saw the sisters take children to pray at the shrine of St. Felix, a 15th century Franciscan saint especially devoted to children.  Felician Sisters are one branch of the Third Order of St. Francis.  They have always sought to harmonize a deep spiritual and community life with dedication to diverse acts of mercy.  The Felician Sisters strive to make GOD KNOWN, LOVED, and GLORIFIED.