As sponsors, we publicly identify with, exert appropriate influence on, and provide various levels of support to these ministries. In so doing, we fulfill our responsibility of stewardship for our heritage, mission, and resources.
After spending many years in education and parish ministry, Sr. Helen Budzik became a member of the startup team that began the Franciscan Spiritual Ministries in Aston, Pennsylvania. She has served in various roles with the spiritual center ever since.
View The Story of Stuff, a 20-minute, fast-paced, fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. The Story of Stuff exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world.
STRATEGIES THAT REFLECT VISION AND PRINCIPLES
Promote the environmental vision and principles of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia through its internal and external communications: Community News, website, OSFConnect, Good News.
Promote the ongoing environmental activities of Franciscan-sponsored ministries through environmental auditing, consultation, and ongoing education.
Identify, create, and maintain sacred spaces throughout the properties owned by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia.
Maintain and enhance areas identified as woodlands, wetlands, and meadows as a wildlife sanctuary. Implement integrated pest-management and other practices that promote ecological balance.
Maintain the woodlands, wetlands, and meadow areas as a wildlife sanctuary.
Promote and demonstrate healthy living through: organic farming (Red Hill Farm CSA), promoting Red Hill Farm educational activities, encouraging healthy nutrition throughout the congregation based on eco-justice values, maintaining a pesticide free environment, and monitoring and evaluating all purchases for their environmental impact.
Delineate and clearly define land use and access for congregational and public use so to enhance community collaboration, preservation of the integrity of the land, and privacy.
Prepare for possible transfer of motherhouse property to future generations who will exhibit a Franciscan-world view.