There is a place tenderly wrought and rooted in the love and care of the earth and all creation, where Earth Day sentiments are not confined to twenty-four hours but are part of an abiding graciousness and a gentle way of life for the Sisters of St. Francis. Since 1917 they have molded eighty nine acres in Sylvania , which includes the campus of Lourdes University, into a space of spiritual peace, welcoming all people. The landscape, shrines and art epitomize the life work of Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) renowned for his belief that the earth and its inhabitants (human and animal) are interconnected and therefore are to be equally respected and cared for. Sister Joan Jurski, Director of Spiritual Experiences states, “The entire campus is a symbol and a reminder that all life is sacred.”
The park –like setting, ripe with the springtime colors of oaks, maples and birches, serves as a tranquil backdrop where one can seek out those reminders. A passionate earth steward, Assisi and his reverence for nature are beautifully depicted by the artistic sisters. They handcrafted the finely detailed tile artwork which adorns the earth-toned brick of the buildings’ facades. The Canticle of The Sun –Praise for All Creatures on Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel’s wall is just one example of how the richly hued mosaics and Assisi’s lyrical words are perfectly mingled into tapestries honoring all creation. The small Portiuncula Chapel, (open daily 8am -5pm) reminiscent of an old Spanish mission, offers a comforting candlelit respite of shadows and light. Blended into the blooming landscape of delicate white and pink cherry and crabapple tree blossoms are areas of quiet contemplation including: The Canticle of Praise Prayer Garden, Assisi shrines and secluded Grottos. For a longer stay, small hermitages are available for rent.
An Invitation:
The compassionate Sisters of St. Francis who walk a path of peace seeking justice for all, invite us to their home “This is a place to be in nature ,people can be at peace here — this is open for everyone to experience," relates Sister Jurski.
Located at 6832 Convent Blvd, the gates are open daily from dawn until dusk. Follow the signs to the All Good Things Gift Shop open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 10am to 2pm for a walking tour pamphlet and map. For more info visit
sistersosf.org or call 419-824-3258
