Sisters of Saint Francis

Lourdes University is a proud sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Sylvania, Ohio. The Sisters of St. Francis are Third Order Regular Franciscans, living in community as vowed religious according to the spirit and example of Francis of Assisi. As women of peace and seekers of justice, they are committed to serving God’s people through diverse ministries in the fields of education, social work, health and human services, pastoral work and spiritual direction.

The Lourdes community continues our partnership and shared charism with the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania through the Sylvania Franciscan Connections. Learn more.

 

Sylvania Franciscans – Artwork and Stained Glass

Sister Sharon Havelak introduces you to the beauty that is the Sylvania Franciscan Motherhouse Grounds.

Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel

Sr. Ann Carmen Barone explains why Queen of Peace truly is a jewel.

Buildings and Architecture

Sister Shannon Schrein explains how Mother Adelaide brought a piece of Italy to Sylvania. Stay tuned for the beautiful story at the end.

Statues and Shrines

Sr. Barbara Vano introduces you to the amazing statues and shrines on the Sylvania Franciscan Motherhouse Grounds.

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

In 1916, Mother Adelaide came to Sylvania and decided she wanted a park. Hear Sister Theresa Darga explain how the Sylvania Franciscan Sisters built the Grotto.

The Portiuncula

The Portiuncula is the Chapel that St. Francis of Assisi rebuilt. The Sylvania Franciscans have a beautiful replica of the Portiuncula on their grounds in Sylvania, Ohio. Sr. Sister M. Jeremias Stinson explains why this Chapel is so important to the Sisters of St. Francis and how we rebuilt ours.