Franciscan Way of Life Group
🌿 Franciscan Way of Life
Rooted in the Gospel. Inspired by St. Francis & St. Clare.
The Franciscan Way of Life invites individuals to deepen their relationship with God, others, and all of creation through the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare.
Open to people of all faith backgrounds, this experience explores Franciscan values grounded in the Gospel—focusing on themes such as:
- Joy
- Simplicity & Poverty
- Care for Creation
- Peace & Community
- The Incarnation
Each session includes prayer, reflection, discussion, and journaling, offering space to grow spiritually and discern how to live these values in everyday life.
📍 Sessions are offered
in-person or via Zoom, depending on participant needs.
📩 Contact Judy & Don Frits:
jfrits@yahoo.com | 319-430-6858
WHO ARE FRANCISCAN ASSOCIATES?
Franciscan Associates are people from all walks of life who feel called to live the Gospel through the spirit of St. Francis.
They:
- Embrace Franciscan values in daily life
- Build meaningful relationships through prayer, service, and community
- Stay rooted in their own vocation while deepening their faith
Associates journey together—supporting one another in living lives of compassion, humility, and joy.
A Legacy of Compassion
The Sisters of St. Francis
Founded in Germany in 1864 by Mother Xavier Termehr, the Sisters of St. Francis began with a simple mission: serve those most in need.
From caring for orphans and the elderly to ministering on war battlefields, their mission quickly grew. Forced into exile, they arrived in Iowa City in 1875—where they opened the first Catholic orphanage in the state.
Since then, their ministry has expanded across:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Social services
- Global missions
Today, they continue to serve with the same spirit of compassion, inspired by the words:
“One beggar must help another.”
What We Do?
Living the Mission Today
Comfort Through Service
On Saturday, March 7, 34 associates from the Dubuque Franciscan, Presentation, and BVM communities came together in a beautiful act of service—creating 24 no-sew fleece blankets for families staying at the Iowa City Ronald McDonald House.
Each blanket was more than just a gift—it was a prayer. Upon completion, participants paused to pray:
“Dear Comforter, grant that the recipient of this blanket be enfolded in your healing love and be granted the warmth of your peace. Amen.”
On March 10, St. Thomas More Franciscan Associates Judy Frits, Mary Merchant, and Ann Elsbecker delivered 17 of these blankets to the Iowa City Ronald McDonald House. These blankets were lovingly assembled as a tangible expression of care and compassion for families supporting children receiving medical care.
Pictured alongside COO Constance Mithelman, this moment reflects the power of small acts of love lived out in faith.
Thank you to all who helped create these blankets and continue to live the Gospel through kindness, generosity, and service
Bringing Life-Giving Water
Global Impact
STM Parishioner and Franciscan Associate, Mike Stein of the Prairie Fire Foundation presented a check in January 2026 to some of our Dubuque Franciscan Sisters and Associates for the Sister Water Project Through running, walking, and biking, the Prairie Fire Foundation raises funds for clean water and other life-giving projects around the world.
Recent visits to Honduras focused on empowering communities through sustainable water systems, leadership training, and improved health practices.
“When creating a fire, so much depends upon the spark!” We are deeply thankful for Mike’s creativity, energy, and support, and for the way this spark is helping bring safe water and dignity to communities in need.
A Growing Community
At the 2025 Fall Gathering, new Associates were joyfully welcomed into the Franciscan family—continuing a legacy of faith in action.
A Call to Something More
The Franciscan Way of Life is more than a program—it’s a journey.
A journey to:
- Live simply
- Love deeply
- Serve joyfully
- Walk humbly with God
If you feel called to grow in faith and make a difference in the world, this may be the path for you.
Come and see what it means to live the Gospel—Franciscan style. 🌿
