Section:
vocations
Sister Leslie Birks, OSF
In the Kensington section of Philadelphia, a little place known as St. Francis Inn shines as a bright spot in a neighborhood riddled with poverty. There, Sister Leslie Birks works as part of an eight-member team that also includes four friars, one other sister, and two lay women who minister to the many needs of those who are homeless, poor, and elderly. The Inn provides a place for people to shower, do laundry, even have their mail delivered. Clients also can obtain much-needed items such as diapers, razors, and other toiletries free of charge, as well as take part in enrichment and counseling opportunities. But despite all the tangible services St. Francis Inn provides, perhaps the most important component of the program is the personal attention and encouragement guests enjoy there. “We would love to see all clients get on their feet but we are here for them whatever happens,” said Sister Leslie. For many who come to St. Francis Inn, it is that unwavering support that keeps them going. By the same token, Sister Leslie insists that it is the camaraderie of her fellow team members and the spirit and determination of the guests themselves that keep her energized. “I have really learned from their faith and trust in God,” said Sister Leslie. “Their courage in the face of seemingly unbearable circumstances has been an inspiration.”
What attracted you to religious life?
I first met the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia at St. Anthony Parish in Trenton, New Jersey—they attracted me to religious life. I only lived two blocks from school and used to help in the classrooms of the convent after school or on weekends. The sisters I knew were down to earth, simple, holy women. My seventh grade teacher, Sister Oliveria, was my sponsor.
How did you know you wanted to become a member of the congregation?
I felt I wanted to serve God in the missions. In high school I attended the vocation talks held by the Medical Mission Sisters or the Maryknoll Sisters. However, God had other plans because I became a Franciscan! I liked the spirit of the sisters and was attracted to St. Francis and his love of creation and the poor and simple people.
What ministries were you involved in?
I taught grade school for ten years and high school for twelve years—at St. Anthony Grade School and High School and Lancaster Catholic High School. During my years in education, I involved the high school students in outreach activities at the soup kitchen in Trenton and Covenant House. I then realized that I wanted to work full-time serving those who are poor, so I went to St. Francis House in Boston, where I stayed for five years. After that I came to St. Francis Inn in Philadelphia, where I have ministered ever since.
What motivates you today in your life as a woman religious?
I am inspired by our mission statement, chapter directives, Franciscan spirituality and theology, and the faith community in which I live and work. It is exciting to be a Franciscan in today’s world which needs Franciscan values of peacemaking, reconciliation, respect for all peoples and the environment, fraternity and sisterhood, simplicity, and contemplation. Here at St. Francis Inn, we are a Eucharistic-based community; this gives us the strength we need.
