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THE MISSION of St. Francis Center for Renewal is to glorify God and
to witness to the Gospel by providing a Christ-centered
environment of hospitality, caring and love as an oasis
of peace and healing for all God’s people.
St. Francis Center for Renewal, founded and staffed by the School Sisters of St. Francis, is built on our tradition
of ongoing conversion of heart through prayer, reflection, liturgical celebration and contemplation. The Center is
located on over 50 acres of natural beauty. The grounds, with wide open spaces for walking, are embraced by the
gentle flow of Monocacy Creek. (Following are examples of our retreat offerings.)

Solitude Retreat ~
A private retreat offering an atmosphere of quiet,
reflection and solitude, with time and space provided for per-
sonal prayer and meditation.
Offering: $60 per night Deposit: $30 Meals: additional

Directed Retreat ~
Individually directed retreats offer extended time for prayer,
solitude, silence and guidance.
The retreatant meets with a director once daily in order to
share her/his experience of God. The spiritual director offers
guidance through suggestions for prayer and reflection. The
director’s cost is arranged separately.
Offering: $60 per night Deposit: $30 Meals: additional
Photo: Jan Gough

Spiritual Direction can be simply defined as “companioning” an individual on her/his life journey. In meeting
with a Spiritual Director we are offered guidance in listening to the movement of the Spirit in our life. This better
enables us to respond to God’s direction. St. Francis Center for Renewal provides trained and qualified directors.
For further information or to make an appointment, please call S. Marguerite Stewart. 610.867.8890 ext. 314

San Damiano Hermitage ~ Celebration of Eucharist:

A hermitage apartment is available for solitude and prayer —
a wonderful way to be completely away from everything and
tune in totally to God. The hermitage includes a living room,
a small prayer room, a bedroom, bath and small kitchenette
with stove, microwave & refrigerator.
Offering: $65 per night Deposit: $30 Meals: additional
(you are free to bring your own food)
The School Sisters of St. Francis invite
you to join them for the celebration of daily
Mass in the Convent Chapel. Weekdays at
7:30AM, (with the exception of Thursday ~
mass is at 4:30PM,) Sundays at 9:15AM.
Please note: there is no Mass celebrated
on Saturdays.

Donation Gif t Certificate

As our logo suggests, St. Francis Are you looking for a unique gift idea
Center for Renewal is called to share with someone special
in your life: a relative, friend or co-worker?
to be “a witness to the light” to
Consider a Gift Certificate
the Lehigh Valley and beyond. from St. Francis Center for Renewal!
We have served as an oasis The gift of a Twilight Retreat,
of peace and healing for over 70 years. Especially in these difficult Day of Reflection or Weekend Retreat
times, we know that our ministry meets an ever increasing need for is a meaningful way to celebrate
people to ‘come away,’ to have quiet time with God, to be nurtured a birthday, Father’s or Mother’s Day.
and healed. And more than ever, we need your help. As many retreat And what a perfect Christmas Gift!
houses close, we are even more committed to keeping ours open! A gesture that speaks of your care...
Please consider a donation to our ministry. We look forward with ex- a gift that will last forever!
citement to working with you and to a bright and fruitful future.
September 2018
Annual Women’s Retreat September 7 ~ 9

Faith ~ A Journey towards what we cannot see

Offering: $175 PP SNG OCC $165 PP DBL OCC Deposit: $80
Check-in begins at 6:00 PM; First Session begins at 7:30 PM Father Joseph Serano, o. praem.
We will begin our autumn retreat weekend with a closer look at is a Norbertine priest who lives
the ABRAHAM story, suggesting that his journey in faith mirrors and ministers at Daylesford Ab-
bey, Paoli, Pa. For over twenty-five
our own. As we concentrate on the MYSTERY toward which
years, he taught theology at Saint
we journey, we will reflect on the God who is “more than we Joseph’s University, Philadelphia.
can hope or imagine”. As the weekend comes to a close we will Currently serving as program or-
share some thoughts on how we might look again at the PRAY- ganizer in the Abbey’s Spirituality
ING that is so integral to our ongoing journey. Center and as community treasurer,
he much enjoys giving retreats.

I’m Spiritual,
Young Adult Retreat
Not Religious
8:45 ~ 3:00PM
September 15
Offering: $35 Deposit: $15 Includes Lunch Nina Marie Corona, MA, CRS is
currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry
This young adult retreat (ages 21-35) will explore authentic degree at Fordham University. With
Christian spirituality in a secular age. What does it mean to be a Master of Arts in Spirituality from
spiritual but not religious? How can young adults feel at home Loyola University, she also studied
and inspired in an age-old religion with its ancient traditions? graduate theology at St. Charles
These questions and more will be explored in an environment Borromeo Seminary and LaSalle Uni-
versity. Nina is an adjunct instructor
that will encourage openness, speculation, and even doubt.
at Villanova University’s Department
Feel free to raise questions, but be ready to explore questions of Theology and Religious Studies.
deep within yourself as well. The day will be filled with lectures, You may learn more by visiting her
meditations, activities, music (maybe even live music!), and more! website:www.ninamariecorona.com.

Encountering Jesus: September 17

Meeting the Christ of Faith Father James Martin, SJ, is
a Jesuit priest, editor at large of
and the Jesus of History America magazine, and consul-
Offering: $35 Deposit: $20 tor to the Vatican’s Secretariat of
Jesus was a real-life, flesh-and-blood, human being. Jesus is Communication. He is the author
also the Son of God and the Second Person of the Trinity. How of many books, including the New
can we understand his two "natures," human and divine? How York Times bestsellers ‘Jesus: A
Pilgrimage’ and ‘The Jesuit Guide.’
does the way we understand him influence our faith? Always
inspirational and enlightening, Fr. Martin will join us by Skype
for this evening retreat.

UN International Day of Peace September 21

Interfaith Service: 7:00 PM, White House Chapel

The United Nations’ (UN) International Day of Peace is celebrated on September 21 each year to recognize the
efforts of those who have worked hard to end conflict and promote peace. The International Day of Peace is also a
day of ceasefire – personal or political.
For our annual tradition of joining in Prayer for Peace, we invite men and women of various faiths to join us for this
special evening prayer service devoted to Peace. Join us as we celebrate an interfaith hour of prayer, reflection and
song, as we intercede with our loving God for the gift of peace among all of God’s people.
October 2018
Simply Prayer October 2
Mornings of prayer, reflection, and sharing. A precious part of our St. Francis
Center for Renewal family, we meet the first Tuesday of each month from Oc-
tober through June. Each month, the format of prayer and sharing varies —
always with time to enjoy our quiet atmosphere for reflection.
9:00 ~ 12:00 noon Includes coffee & pastry
Freewill Offering is Welcomed

Celebration of the Transitus October 3

The celebration of the Transitus is an important Franciscan de-
votion to ritualize the journey of St. Francis from this life into 7:00 PM
eternity. It is held on the evening of October 3rd, the anniversary
of St. Francis’ death. The School Sisters of St. Francis invite you White House
to join them for this beautiful rite of passing which will be held
in the Convent Chapel. A reception will follow in the Convent
Convent Chapel
Dining Hall.
RSVP: September 24, 2018 ~ 610.867.8890 + Nicholas Parrendo

70th Anniversary Liturgy of Thanksgiving

celebrating our 70 wonder ~ full years of faithful service.

Sunday, October 7, 2018 11:00 AM

Celebrant: Bishop Alfred Schlert
Homilist: Father Patrick Lamb
Reception to Follow

Please note: Offertory Collection will support the ministry of St. Francis Center for Renewal.
Seating is limited. RSVP will be required.
Please use a copy of the registration form on back of this brochure to register for the Mass and reception.
 October 13 & 20
EmpowEring thE girl-Child to Fall in lovE with SElF Sharon A. Brown, educator
9:30 AM - Noon Includes Lunch and experienced facilitator,
Offering: Youth: $15 per sess; has worked at Lehigh Uni-
Parent/Youth: $25 per Sess. Deposit: $15 versity, Moravian College and
Theological Seminary, and
October 11th is designated by the United Nations as The International the College of New Jersey.
Day of the Girl Child - a day focused on raising awareness of the issues Sharon has held key admin-
that girls face around the world, while empowering them to reach their istrative positions in academic
highest potential. support, student retention,
This two-part seminar, aimed at teen girls and/or their parent(s), will institutional diversity and mul-
engage participants in an interactive discussion about “falling in love with self.” ticultural affairs. She has taught at under-
We know that girls are often vulnerable to the pressures of societal ills and can graduate and graduate level and lectured
look for love in all the wrong places. Our discussions will focus on helping girls on such topics as social justice, equity,
avoid falling prey to those “ills” and engage them in a journey that will educate girls and women’s issues.
them about protecting their mind, body and spirit. Our topics for discussion will Sharon co-authored “Digging Below
include self-esteem, abuse (physical and mental), sexual misconduct, and love. the Surface: Uncovering Microaggres-
Our hope is that this seminar will inspire participants to lay claim to their innate sions as an Act of Atonement” published
power and be guided from within. in Bridging the Gap between Bible and
Practical Theology, Cambridge Scholars
Publishing, 2018.
Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM October 16
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15
Msgr. James Reichert, MDiv
Includes Refreshments Born and raised in Allentown,
What Does God See & Love in Me Msgr. Reichert was ordained
in 1971. He was assistant in
that I Don’t See & Love? many local parishes, and pas-
tor at St. John Baptist, Sacred
Heart, Reading and, most re-
As we take a deeper look at ourself we hope to discover the self that
cently, at St. Rocco’s, from
God created. Let us try to understand and love ourselves as God
which he retired in June 2017.
made us. “I am someone who needs to matter to myself and to God.”

Day of Reflection 8:45 AM ~ 3:00 PM October 27

Offering: $45 Includes Lunch Deposit: $20
Day of Serenity from Addiction Father Patrick Lamb, M.Div.
Pastor of Queenship of Mary
Parish, Northampton, Father
This day will focus on finding peace and acceptance in dealing with Lamb is a frequent speaker at
one’s own addiction or the addiction of someone you love. Special St. Francis Center, where he
prayer will be offered for loved ones who have died at the hands of is known for his down-to-earth
addiction. Strength and comfort will be offered for those in addiction and practical spirituality.
and for their loved ones struggling to cope. Emphasis will be on breaking
the shame that binds us all. Jesus said, “Those who are well do not
need a doctor, sick people do.” Jesus wants to comfort the sick and
tired, affected by addiction.

October 30
Fall Film Sharing 6:45 PM Free Will Offering:
Wonder
Based on the New York Times bestseller, WONDER tells the incredibly inspiring and heartwarming
story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who enters 5th grade, attending a main-
stream elementary school for the first time.
 November 2018
Simply Prayer 9:00 ~ 12:00 noon.
November 6
Freewill Offering is Welcomed
Includes coffee & pastry

Healing our Wounds... November 9~11

Paula D’Arcy, a writer, re-
from the Inside Out treat leader, conference and
seminar speaker, travels
A deeper look at the way we are all living our lives.
widely in the US, Canada,
What happens when we stop believing that change will only happen “out
and abroad. She is also
there,” and begin to realize that we are the world, and healing begins from President of Red Bird Foun-
the inside out. dation, which supports the
November 9, 2018 7:00 PM growth and spiritual devel-
opment of those in need as
Opening presentation open to general public well as those invested in the
Offering: $35 Deposit: $20 opening of the heart and the
healing of this world.
Weekend Retreat November 9 ~ 11, 2018 A former psychotherapist who ministered to
Check in begins November 9 at 6:00 PM; First Session: 7:00 PM; those facing issues of grief and loss, Paula
worked with the Peale Foundation, founded
Offering: $225 pp sng occ. $215 pp dbl occ. Deposit: $100 by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, from 1980 until
Commuters: $100 plus meals Deposit: $50 his death in 1993, and has written ten books.
Paula also serves as adjunct faculty at Oblate
School of Theology in San Antonio, TX and
Seton Cove Spirituality Center in Austin, TX.

November 14
Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9;00 PM.
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15 Micah Sadigh, PhD
In Search of Guidance Includes Refreshments
Dr. Sadigh is Professor
of Psychology at Cedar
Crest College. He has
Dreams and the Journey of the Soul: (From Mythology to Spirituality) published extensively
Since the dawn of civilization, dreams have played an important role in nearly in the area of sleep
every culture, particularily from a religious perspective. In this talk we shall medicine.
travel to the past and look at dreams from religious and mythological perspec-
tives with the hope of developing a deeper understanding of the human soul.

Honoring the World Day of the Poor November 18

Psalm 34, "This poor one cried out and the Lord heard."
"We can ask ourselves, how is it this cry, which reaches all the way to God, is unable to penetrate our ears and leaves
us indifferent and impassive?" Pope Francis
Food collected at the 4th Annual Holiday Craft Fair will be delivered to the needy. Please join us in our effort by donating
grocery store gift cards or canned goods.

A Day of Adoration (Convent Chapel) November 27

Exposition: Begins 10:00 AM; Benediction: 3:00 PM
How very grateful we are, as we remember and celebrate our 70 years of dedicated service to God’s people in
providing an oasis of peace where all can come to pray and be with God. 2018 was certainly a year to look back and
rejoice at the goodness of it all. This year has also been an opportunity to look ahead with HOPE. We look forward
to seeing what the Holy Spirit has in store for this wonder-full place, it's heart-felt ministry, and the many members of
our family who call St. Francis Center home! Please join us for a day of Adoration in Thanksgiving.
December 2018
Simply Prayer with Speaker & Lunch December 4
9:00 ~ 12:00 noon Includes coffee & pastry
Susan Conroy made her first
Offering: $35 Deposit: $15 Includes Lunch trip to Calcutta to work with
Mother Teresa and the Mis-
St. Teresa of Calcutta ~ sionaries of Charity in 1986. In
1987, at the request of Mother
Her Lessons of Love
Teresa herself, Susan stayed
& True Devotion to Our Blessed Mother Mary in the Order's convent in the
Join us as we enjoy a return visit from Susan Conroy. Susan will South Bronx, New York, in con-
templation of the religious life.
share her personal experiences of serving the poorest of the
Susan did not enter the Order,
poor in Calcutta, with St. Teresa of Calcutta. She will speak about but in 1991, she once again re-
the lessons of love she learned from her first hand and about turned to Calcutta to work with the Sisters among
the Saint’s earnest devotion to Our Lady, whom she called the the dying destitutes. She and St.Teresa kept in
“Cause of our Joy.” touch until her death in 1997. Before being called
Home to God, St. Teresa gave Susan permission
to write a book about her experiences.

Annual Advent Weekend Retreat

Offering: $175 PP SNG OCC $165 PP DBL OCC Deposit: $80 December 7 ~ 9
Check In begins December 7 at 6:00 PM, First Session: 7:30 PM

Isaiah, John the Baptist & Mary ~ Father Joseph Serano, o. praem.
is a Norbertine priest who lives
our Models for Advent Waiting and ministers at Daylesford Ab-
bey, Paoli, Pa. For over twenty-five
years, he taught theology at Saint
We tend to think of waiting as a passive activity, when in fact Joseph’s University, Philadelphia.
the “waiting of Advent” is a call to action. We are preparing not Currently serving as program or-
just to celebrate the Coming of the Christ Child, but equally we ganizer in the Abbey’s Spirituality
look forward to the Final Coming of the Christ at the end of the Center and as community treasur-
ages. er, he much enjoys giving retreats.

By looking at these three key Advent figures, we can better see

what we are “called to do” to celebrate the First Coming and be
ready for the Final Coming of the One Lord.

Christmas Vespers 2018

White House Chapel
Refreshments to Follow
Retreat Center Dining Hall

Freewill Offering
Saturday, December 15 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 16 2:00 PM
& 7:00 PM
 January 2019
Time Talent Treasure ~ January 5
Prayer Service & Reception
Prayer Service: 11:30 am Convent Chapel
Followed by lunch
Retreat Center dining room

9:00 ~ 12:00 NOON Includes coffee & pastry January 8

Simply Prayer Freewill Offering is Welcomed

Women’s Spirituality Weekend Retreat January 11 ~ 13

Offering: $175 PP SNG OCC, $165 PP DBL OCC Deposit: $80
Check In begins January 13 at 6:00 PM, First Session: 7:30 PM

The Journey is Made Holy by Walking Faclitated by Retreat Team -

St. Francis Center for Renewal:
Sr. Barbara DeStefano
Life is a journey made up of days that are bright and hope filled, where we feel Sr. Anita Kuchera
alive and open to the challenges of life. There are, however, those other days Sr. M. Virginelle Makos
where we are not sure that we can continue. And yet, as sisters and brothers Sr. Marguerite Stewart
in Christ, we are called to live in faith, and journey in hope, despite the
challenges that face us. Spend the weekend with us as, together, we discover
how this journey is made possible and how we are made HOLY by our walking.

January 23
Carole C. Chuk is the former
Director of the Office of the Cat-
echumenate and Assistant Di-
rector of the Office of Worship

Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM

of the Diocese of Allentown. She
also served in parish ministry in
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15 Includes Refreshments the Diocese.

Mystery in Broad Daylight Carole has presented sessions for liturgical

How are we claimed by the Mystery that unfolds in the liturgy?
During this “Twi-light” retreat we’ll “shine a light” on our experi-
ences, savor the memory, and ponder its meaning - so that we
might more fully live out its vision.
ministers, deacons, catechists, teachers, par-
ents, RCIA candidates and teams, and women’s
groups at both the parish and diocesan levels.
She has also been a speaker for several events
hosted by the Institute for Jewish-Christian Un-
derstanding, Muhlenberg College, where she
serves on its Planning Committee.
Carole holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish
and a Masters degree in Theological, Pastoral, and
Liturgical Studies.
 February 2019
Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM February 1
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15 Includes Refreshments
St. Francis: Creation’s Voice
St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226), founder of the Franciscan order, was an itinerant FACILITATORS:
preacher, an incurable troubadour, a lover of God’s Creation, who called all that Sr. Barbara DeStefano, OSF
God created his sisters and brothers. He and his followers were characterized by & Sr. Marguerite Stewart, OSF
their way of life – one of poverty, simplicity, and joy. Today Francis is known as the
patron saint of ecology and the environment, as well as a model of peace and non-
violence. This evening we will look, together, at how the values of this great saint
are especially poignant in today’s world.

Simply Prayer 9:00 ~ 12:00 noon. Includes coffee & pastry

Freewill Offering is Welcomed
February 5

February 13
Sr. Nancy Iampietro,
Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM CPS, MA, Currently the
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15 Includes Refreshments provincial secretary for her
order, Sister ministers in the
Gaudete et Exultate – Rejoice and Be Glad US and internationally. A
trainer of spiritual directors
On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World
and formators, she gives
conferences and workshops
Together we will explore Pope Francis’ Letter calling each of us to
in spiritual direction, formative spirituality, dis-
Ordinary Holiness: a practical way for our time. He frames holiness as cernment, religious life, charism, vows, renewal,
Jesus’ desire for us “not to settle for a bland and mediocre existence; etc. Sister taught at Regina Mundi Pontifical In-
to acknowledge our failings and keep moving forward; to recognize the stitute in Rome and for ten years was the Supe-
saints next door; to discover who we were created to be as our mission rior General in Rome for The Missionary Sisters
in life. Forge in us, Pope Francis prays, the personal mystery, that of the Precious Blood.
image of Jesus that we carry, so that we can reflect Christ in the world!!

The Un-Conventional Meeting Place

Is your organization in need of a peaceful and stress-free environment for your
next staff retreat, workshop or board meeting? We invite you to experience the
hospitality and care of St. Francis Center for Renewal.
Surrounded by over 50 acres of peaceful countryside and embraced by the
gentle flow of Monocacy Creek, our Center provides a relaxed environment
where it is easy to accomplish your goals.

Four Main Conference Rooms * Accommodates 75-100 for day retreats *

State of the art multi-media room * 3 small breakout rooms * 37 spacious
bedrooms ~ double or single occupancy * All floors accessible by elevator
* Individually operated AC in each room * Small chapel seats 30, large chapel
seats 110 *AV equipment as needed * Gymnasium use possible.
 March 2019
9:00 ~ 12:00 noon. Includes coffee & pastry
Simply Prayer Freewill Offering is Welcomed
March 5

March 6
Ash Wednesday

Lenten Taizé 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM (Retreat Center Chapel) March 20

Freewill Offering is Welcomed

The Lenten season is a special time to calm our minds and gentle our spirits. Join us for an evening of
prayer that will include Taizé music, scripture readings and periods of tranquil silence.
Led by Sr. Barbara DeStefano & Sr. Anita Kuchera

Choices: The Hinges of Destiny 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM March 5, 12, 19 & 26

Offering: $15 per session/ 4 sessions for $50
Nina Marie Corona, MA, CRS is
Includes coffee & pastry currently pursuing a Doctor of
Ministry degree at Fordham
University. She possesses
What better way to prepare for Lent and grow closer to Jesus than to contemplate a Master of Arts in Spiritu-
on his life and the choices he made during his time on earth? Join us as we walk ality from Loyola University,
alongside Jesus of Nazareth and consider the radical choices he made at pivotal and she also studied gradu-
moments in his life. ate theology at St. Charles
Borromeo Seminary and LaSalle University.
Just as Jesus’ choices reveal much about who he is, our choices reveal who we Nina is also an adjunct instructor at Villanova
are. We will also reflect on our own choices and discern if our decisions are University’s Department of Theology and Reli-
authentically Christian. gious Studies. You may learn more about Nina
by visiting her website:
Each evening will include lectures, meditations, private contemplative activities, www.ninamariecorona.com.
music (including live music!), and more!

Photos: Michael Demyan

April 2019
9:00 ~ 12:00 noon Includes coffee & pastry
Simply Prayer Freewill Offering is Welcomed
April 2

Day of Reflection 8:45 AM ~ 3:00 PM April 6

Offering: $45 Includes Lunch Deposit: $20
Fr. Bernard Ezaki, MDiv
“Lessons from the Nursery: Ordained in 1988, Fr. Ezaki taught at
Bethlehem Catholic High School for
What Our Toys Can Teach Us” twenty-four years. He is currently
Assistant Pastor at St. Jane De Chan-
tal Parish in Easton.
Return to the world of childhood to learn spiritual truths about divine
patience and humility, reality, the place of possessions, God’s generosity
and forgiveness, and Christ’s atonement. Come as a child of tender age.
Leave as a most enlightened sage.

Twilight Retreat 6:45 ~ 9:00 PM
Offering: $25 Deposit: $15
Includes Refreshments
“A Pilgrimage Called Life”
Each of us has a story – our own personal story. It is, in a way,
unique … and yet, somehow also universal. There are the happy
memories and the difficult ones, those that put smiles on our faces
and those that still hurt. Yet, our lives, “WHO WE REALLY ARE”,
is a result of all of our experiences, our relationships, our gifts and
challenges, our successes and our failures, our countless good
days and bad ones.
This evening we will look at our own personal autobiographies in
the light of a noted international author Brennan Manning, who has
shared his personal life openly, honestly and freely, and has helped
countless people to find grace and peace in THEIR story.
April 30
Sr. Barbara De Stefano
Sister Barbara has ministered at St. Francis
Center for Renewal for 30 years -- and as Di-
rector for 5 years. Sister has given many spiri-
tual presentations at the Center - as well as in
the diocesan parishes over those years. She
has ministered for 6 years as the Director of
Liturgy at the Catholic Community of St. Mat-
thias Parish in Somerset, NJ. Sister has a BA
in Theology, and MA in Religious Studies,
and Certification in Liturgy and Liturgical For-
mation.

Triduum Celebrations ~
White House Convent Chapel

Holy Thursday: 7:30 PM

Good Friday: 3:00 PM
Easter Vigil: 7:30 PM
Easter Mass: 9:15 AM
May 2019 9th Annual Star Struck Gala
May 4, 2019 & Silent Auction
2019 Women of Strength Awards
SAVE THE DATE!
9:00 ~ 12:00 noon Includes coffee & pastry May 7 & June 4
Simply Prayer Freewill Offering is Welcomed

Spring Film Sharing 6:45 PM Free Will Offering:

May 8
I Can Only Imagine
Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Bart Millard suffers physical and emotional abuse at the
hands of his father, Arthur. When Arthur becomes terminally ill, he finds redemption by
embracing his faith and rediscovering his love for his son. Years later, Bart's troubled child-
hood and mended relationship with his dad inspires him to write the hit song "I Can Only
Imagine" as singer of the Christian band MercyMe. Based on: The life story of Bart Millard
Free Will Offering

Twilight Retreat May22

6:45 ~ 9:00 PM Offering: $25 Deposit: $15 Includes Refreshments
An Evening with Bishop Alfred Schlert
Bishop Alfred A. Schlert was born to Alfred and Marylou Schlert in Easton on July 24, 1961.
Educated at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Elementary School, Easton and Notre Dame High
School, Easton, he prepared for the Priesthood at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia,
the Pontifical Roman Seminary, Rome and St. John Lateran University, Rome. He was ordained
a priest at the Cathedral of Saint Catharine of Siena, Allentown on September 19, 1987 by The
Most Reverend Thomas J. Welsh, Second Bishop of Allentown.
As a native son of the Diocese of Allentown, Bishop Schlert has served in a variety of pastoral
experiences: Assistant Pastor, High School Professor, College Chaplain, Vice Chancellor, Sec-
retary to the Bishop, Vicar General, and Pastor. All of these assignments greatly formed Bishop
Schlert in his Priesthood. He was appointed the Fifth Bishop of Allentown by Pope Francis on June
27, 2017. He was ordained a Bishop and installed as the Fifth Bishop of Allentown on August 31,
2017. He is the first native son of the Diocese of Allentown to be ordained Bishop of Allentown.

August 2019
August 4 ~ 9, 2019

Sisters’ Conference Retreat

Offering: $400 PP SNG OCC Deposit: $100

FACILITATOR: Father Greg Friedman, OFM

 November 3, 2018
4th ANNuAl holidAy CrAft & bAke SAle
PLEASE help us with our Bake Sale. The proceeds from the bake sale go directly
to assist the ministry of St. Francis Center for Renewal. Please share with us your
favorite baked good, whether it is cookies, cupcakes, fudge or candy, loaves, pies,
cakes or breads ~ ALL is welcome and appreciated.
Drop-off time is Friday, November 2, 9:00AM onwards, at St. Francis Center.

If you are a crafter ~ contact Jan at 610.867.8890...but hurry!

Space is quickly filling up.
Shoppers ~ don’t forget to bring a friend!!
Special Appearance by Mr. & Mrs. Claus; Sr. Mary Martha & her accordian.

Register Please Note: In honor of the 2nd World Day for the Poor, (November 18)
donations to help the needy will be collected as ‘admission’ to the fair.

NOW! $2 or more, Canned and dry goods, grocery store gift cards - all will be
collected at door to fair. Please help us!

Renewal Center Staff

Retreat Team:
S. Barbara DeStefano, OSF has ministered at St. Francis Center for Renewal for 30 years - and as Director for 5 years. Sister
has given many spiritual presentations at the Center - as well as in the diocesan parishes over those years. She has ministered
for 6 years as the Director of Liturgy at the Catholic Community of St. Matthias Parish in Somerset, NJ. Sister has a BA in Theol-
ogy, and MA in Religious Studies, and Certification in Liturgy and Liturgical Formation.
S. Anita Kuchera, OSF has ministered at St. Francis Center for Renewal for 41 years - and as Director for 34 of those years.
She has served as a Pastoral Associate for Evangelization for 6 years at the Catholic Community of St. Matthias Parish in
Somerset, NJ. (Particularly, as the Director of the RCIA ministry). Sister has a BA in Education, a BS in Guidance and Counsel-
ling, and an MA in Religious Studies.
S. M. Virginelle Makos, OSF, BS An educator for many years in secondary education, Sister served as principal for 14 years
in North Bergen, NJ. For eleven years she served the School Sisters as caregiver of the elder sisters in Villa Clare and followed this
with 3 years as Activity Aide at Holy Family Manor. In 2016, Sister joined the retreat staff at St. Francis Center and currently serves as
a Provincial Councillor.
S. Marguerite Stewart, OSF, BSEd., BA (Music) Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Direction Studies. For 12 years Sister
acted as Vicar General of her congregation in Rome as well as Director of Formation. With over 30 years experience in spiritual
formation, S. Marguerite, a spiritual director and workshop presenter, was the Director of St. Francis Center for 6 years.
Director: Marketing & Development: Janice Gough, BA (Theology) Involved in publishing, event planning,
marketing and development for the not-for-profit sector for over 35 years, Jan is also the proprietor of a custom order craft busi-
ness, and teacher of adult education craft courses. Married, the mother of two and a grandmother of two little girls, she has called
St. Francis Center ‘home’ for over fifteen years!
Finance: Janice Briggs & S. Bonnie Marie Kleinschuster, OSF,
Technology & Development Support: S. Bonnie Marie Kleinschuster, OSF,
Dietary Ministry: Nourishment of the body is a very important part of any retreat experience. We are extremely grateful to our
team of professionals! Chef, Carol Devine and Assistant Chef, Tina Perkins
Housekeeping Ministry: In providing a Christ-centered environment of hospitality, caring and love, St. Francis Center for
Renewal is often complimented for its spotlessly clean and inviting environment. Along with a host of dedicated volunteers, the
following team members take great pride in continuing this tradition: S. Loretta Motko, S. Marie Bernadette Kelleher,
Julie Gerancher & Georgine Kilpatrick.
Maintenance: S. M. Donna Pusch, OSF, Arthur Unger and Team
 Annual Appeal
2017-2018
Friends of Francis
1 Anonymous
Clare’s Contemporaries
MIKE & LYNN ALBARELL
MRS. ANNA KLEINSCHUSTER
Peace & All Good
2 ANONYMOUS
SANDRA & THEODORE BIRCHMEIER
DR. MILISSA BOLCAR
JOSEPH & CAROLE CHUK
MARTIN COLLINS
DONNA & JAMES CORSON SR. BONNIE MARIE KLEINSCHUSTER, OSF
MICHAEL & HELEN CUNNINGHAM
ROBERT & SANDRA CSASZAR-SWANSON
JOHN & ROBIN DIPOTO
ALPHONSE & LUISA FIORE
LISA GEHMAN
Brother Sun
1 ANONYMOUS
BETHLEHEM GALLERY OF FLOORS
FRED & MARYANNE BLOOM
ALICE BOVA
SUSAN & CHRISTIAN FIDLER
REV. MARY GADE
BONNIE KOSMAN
JESSICA MORRIS
GERALD & MARIE SMITH
Brother Wind & Air
2 ANONYMOUS
BERNICE BOROWSKI
RICHARD & MARIE BRAND
MR. & MRS. GEORGE BROWN
MONICA CARPENCY
REGINA COSTANTINO
BEVERLY THOMPSON DEVINE
MARIA DIBENDETTO
JANET & BERNARD DRONEY
SR. GEORGETTE DUBLINO
SR. FRANCES DUNCAN
CRYSTAL DUNNSOPER
JANE ENGLERT
TERESA FRONHEISER
MANDY GERO
PATRICIA GILLICH
SR. MARIA GLODAVA
PHYLLIS HAZLER
RONALD & SUSAN HERCZEG
MARGARET & BURTON HOLLINGSHEAD
SR. JANICE MARIE JOHNSON
JAMES KOCH, SR.
K.S. KOLLMER
MARGARET KOVACH
RICHARD LIND
DOROTHY LOTURCO
MARIE JULIA MATYAS
SUSAN NOVAK
ROBERT OLNEY
JORGE & MARITZA OTERO
MARGARET PARRISH
CONNIE POJANOWSKI
CHERYL SCHWENK
ROSE SEIFERT
MARY ANN & DALE SINE
MARY STOFANAK
DOROTHY TREXLER
WALTER & DEBORAH WAGNER
BEVERLY & CHARLES WALAKOVITS
DONNA ZWICK
Brothers Wind & Air: Gifts under $50
Gifts received between July 1, 2017 & June 30, 2018*
Stars of Bethlehem
2 ANONYMOUS
KELLY & GARY CARNEY
SARAH & MICHAEL CHAFFIER
GERRY & PAT FABIAN
PATRICIA FLEMMING
JANET MARSICANO
BARBARA MORAN
WILLIAM & SUZANNE MULHERN
CHARLES & BARBARA TALABER
BARBARA & ARNOLD TRAUPMAN
JOANNE WUEST
JOHN & GRAYCE HAMRICK
PATRICIA HERBST
CLAIRE HINTZ
NANCY HUTT
JEANNE KRENICKY KIPP
ELIZABETH KOSMAN
PATRICIA LABUDA
MARY & ANTHONY MARTOCCI
HELEN MCCOMB
PAT & BILL MINFORD
LAURA & MIKE MINOGUE
KATHLEEN NAVARRE
DEB NEELY
6 ANONYMOUS
Sister Moon
CAROLINE ALBA
KATHLEEN ALEXANDER
PURITA ALIGAEN
WINK ALOGNA
TINA AMATO
JOAN BALIK
JUDY BARBERICH
LUCILLE BAVARIA-KOZSEY
REV. ROBERT BISZEK
REV. KEVIN BOBBIN
DOROTHEA BOWEN
CAROL BRADLEY
KAREN BRENNER
JANICE BRIGGS
ELIZABETH CEOL
PHILIP & KATHLEEN COMITO
BARBARA COX
CAMILLA D’ANNUNZIO
JO-ELLEN DARLING
ANNE DEJOSEPH
JOAN DOHERTY
REV. MSGR EDWARD DOMIN
MARGARET DUELL
BRENDA EBELING
KATIE EDWARDS
MARY EHRHARDT
JANE ELMOUDERRIB
ROSEMARY EMEIGH
ROBERT & COLLETTE FISHER
VICKI FOX
JANE GIBSON
LOUISE GOLDMAN
MARY CLARE GOSSE
REV-MSGR. JOHN GRABISH DEACON RICHARD & JEANNETTE THODEN
MARY ANN HAMMER
JANET & BERNARD HARTZELL
MICHELE HELLER
MARY HIGGINS
ELIZABETH HOLCOMBE
ANN MARIE JANDERS
FLORENCE JANIS
MARYANN & STEPHEN JOSEPH
JAMES & LOUISE KELCHNER
CHARLOTTE KELHART
THOMAS KOZOLOWSKI Friends of Francis: Gifts of $5000 & over
Companions of the Canticle
Brother Sun: Gifts of $175-$249
Sister Moon: Gifts of $50-$174
Pillars of Assisi
1 ANONYMOUS
ALBARELL ELECTRIC
MIKE & SHIRELY BRIODY
SR. MARIAN BERNADETTE CHUK, IHM
CARRIE AND MARK FELLON
ISELA GARGANTA
ANTHONY GLODAVA
JOSEPH & SHIRLEY KNECHT HIXSON
REV. MSGR ROBERT KOZEL
SHARON LABUDA
MSGR. JOHN MARTIN
MARK & PAULETTE ROTH
JOSEPH DOBRANSKY
VINCENT & GENA TALLARICO
LORETTA ULINCY
REV. GARY & LINDA WALBERT
CAROL WALTON
KATE O’BOYLE
REV. MSGR. STEPHEN RADOCHA
DIANE & MIKE RICE
MARIE & RAYMOND ROBINSON
BARBARA ANN SHOTWELL
ALBERTA ALBRECHT SIEMIATKOSKI
GEORGE KOSTELNIK
JOHN SKRINCOSKY
MARY ANN SNELL
ST. MATTHIAS PARISHIONERS
JOANNE & CHRIS VELLA
JEANIE & VINCENT WOHLHEITER
THERESA KRESGE
REV. PATRICK LAMB
EDWIN LANDROCK
JOSEPH & LORETTA LEESON
CAROLYN & RAYMOND LIPSKY
PATRICIA LOFTUS
SR. THERESA LOSIEWICZ
JEAN LUZ
VICTORIA MAIORINO
REV. LEO MALETZ
MARY HELEN MARKOWITZ
LINDA MCANDREW
SIADLEY MEADE
ANNE MEDEI
JOANETTE MEYD
IRENE MILAN
BARBARA MILLER
JOAN MILLER
CATHERINE MINNIHAN
ELEANOR NIMMER
VINNIE NATALE
MARY OPELLA
SHARON PENATER
SUSAN PLOCH
MARIA & JOSE RAMOS
PAM ROBERTSON
CARMELA ROCO
MARGARET & JOHN RONCOLATO
ARLENE RONOLLO
CELESTE SAUNDERS
PATTI SCHIRRIPA
DEBORAH SEWALD
MARIE SIGNAROVITZ
MARISTELA TESTA
TERRI TOLOSKO
MR. & MRS. CHARLES TRINKLE
JOSEPHINE VARANELLI
ROSEANNE VENDITTO
MARIE WANCHICK
DANA ZAMBOLUI
JULIE ZAPOTOCKY
DEBRA ZERFASS
San Damiano Society
Clare’s Contemporaries: Gifts of $2500
Stars of Bethlehem: Gifts of $1000
Pillars of Assisi: Gifts of $500
Peace & All Good: Gifts of $250
 Star Struck Gala & Silent Auction 2018
PLATINUM SPONSOR ~ DENISE & JOHN JONES
SAPPHIRE SPONSORS ~ AlbArell electric
Blue Diamond Sponsors:
Diocese of Allentown * E T & T
Friends of Monocacy * Shirley Knecht Hixson & Joe Hixson * Mrs. Anna Kleinschuster
Betty Kline & Friends * Father David Lozak * School Sisters of St. Francis
Donors
aBundant graces Healing Hands Plow & HeartH
act 1 Historic Hotel BetHleHem Pocono oil & sPice
adagio ironPigs cHarities Premise maid candies
aPPleBee’s JosH early candies Prime steaKHouse
Bare Beauty Products Keystone PuB & grill mary PrinciPato
tHe Bayou s. Bonnie KleinscHuster, osF red loBster
BeeF JerKy outlet James Knerr red stag PuB & grill
BetHleHem Bounty csa s. anita KucHera, osF reFind
BetHleHem golF cluB leHigH Valley Jewelry excHange sHaron reHrig
Blue deBoraH & marK lieBerman Virginia rooney
Borderline lenox Frances roseman
sHirley & miKe Briody lost riVer caVerns arlene samPino
Frances Brown s. m. Virginelle maKos, osF VicKi seFraneK
cloVer Hill winery monsignor JoHn martin settler’s inn
cluBHouse grill Helen mccomB sHoPrite
alexandria cirKo Pat HamPsey mcdermott sigHt & sound tHeatre
cloVer Hill Vineyards s. loretta motKo, osF simPly smootH
mr. & mrs. degasPers mediterranean catering sKy zone
dolce mamma Bar & grill Joan miller starBucKs
donegal square miller’s ale House steFano’s
s. Frances marie duncan, osF Patricia and Bill minFord deBBie & JacK steVenson
Jim ecKert laura & miKe minogue s. marguerite stewart, osF
edge molinaris st. Francis center For renewal
esg monocacy Farm ProJect st. JosePH tHe worKer ParisH
greg & nancy FalKenBacH my Boy’s BaKing Helen sVanda
FireHouse suBs KatHy naVarre tallarico’s
Fox oPtical deB neely tanczos BeVerages
ellie Franges 1001 tHai taVern at tHe sun inn
giant old Farmer’s almanac store tHe sayre mansion
Janice gougH & Jerry HerauF oliVe garden tHe yard Farmer
grazie italian grill on tHe Border mexican grill toucHstone tHeatres
armando & Jacqueline greco outBacK steaKHouse trexlertown Beauty salon
anne Houston Pa sHaKesPeare FestiVal reV. gary & linda walBert
nancy Hutt Joanne PeKariK wawa
gloria garganta PHilly Pretzel Factory wegmans
mary gonzales natalie Pionegro weis marKets
green Pond country cluB Pizza Village worKing dog Press
yanKee candle
2018 Gala Committee
Jan Gough, Milissa Bolcar Nancy Hutt Sr. Regina Ann Rokosny, OSF
Chair Alexandria Cirko Louise Kelchner Sr. Marguerite Stewart, OSF
Kathy Navarre, Ellie Franges Sr. Bonnie M. Kleinschuster, OSF Deborah Stevenson
Co-Chair Mary Gonzales Sr. M. Virginelle Makos, OSF Linda Walbert

Thank you to our many generous volunteers and donors.

Your support gives life to the important ministry that is the heart of St. Francis Center for Renewal!
 School Sisters of St. Francis NON-PROFIT ORG.
St. Francis Center for Renewal, Inc. U.S. POSTAGE
395 Bridle Path Rd. PAID
Bethlehem PA 18017 LEHIGH VALLEY, PA
PERMIT #220

TITLE OF PROGRAM: DATE:

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE: E-MAIL:

AMOUNT ENCLOSED: CHECK NUMBER:

Please make checks payable to: St. Francis Center for Renewal, Inc.
All deposits are non-refundable unless St. Francis Center for Renewal cancels a program

For More Information

Please Call: 610.867.8890
WEEKDAY OFFICE HOURS 9:00 AM — 4:00 PM
OR EMAIL: stfranciscenter@gmail.com
www.stfrancisctr.org
ST. FRANCIS CENTER FOR RENEWAL, INC.
ATTENTION: Director of St. Francis Center
395 Bridle Path Road
Bethlehem, PA 18017