Franciscan Life Center: Youth

Youth Programs

Young people have always held a special place in the development of the Franciscan Life Center. Mother Shaun Vergauwen, Foundress, has encouraged innovative initiatives for positive, wholesome and faith-based programs that channel the energies of youth, and open horizons of hope to them.

Summer Enrichment Program
Climbing trees, caring for animals, learning about soil, and creating art projects are just a few of the ever-changing activities at this summer outdoor program for children ages 6-12.

School Retreats
The schedule of retreats for adolescent groups is usually booked far in advanced. Schools find the center's campus an ideal place for adventure-based retreats.

World Youth Day Pilgrimages
The Franciscan Life Center has sponsored pilgrimages to the Holy Father's World Youth Days in Czestochowa, Poland; Denver; Paris; Rome and Toronto. These events give young people an experience of the universality of the Church and a chance to be with thousands of other youth who are responding to the Holy Father's outreach to them.

Youth Groups
Once a month young people get together with the Franciscan Sisters for activities, fun and age-appropriate discussions of faith and community.

Work Days & Community Service
Local high school students often gain their required community service hours through volunteering at the Franciscan Life Center's work days and projects. Football coaches have brought their teams to Saturday work days as part of their team work-out sessions. These strong young bodies not only give their muscles and hands to physical projects but develop team skills and great relationships with the Sisters and other workers as well.