The Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help recently received a $2,500 grant from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Enterprise Holdings, which, through its regional subsidiaries, operates the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands.
Among other ministries, the Kirkwood-based Sisters promote a “Franciscans for Earth” approach to the environment, noting that “all is sacred, good, and interconnected.” The grant funds will be directed toward that program, which features regular public viewings of eco-friendly movies, as well as their “Franciscan Farm,” a retreat center in rural DeSoto that specializes in helping all people re-connect with nature.
“As Catholic Sisters who follow the rule and life of St. Francis of Assisi, we believe creation is God’s continuing revelation and mystery unfolding in our world,” said Sister Renita Brummer, the Order’s Minister General. “And as Pope Francis has stated, living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue.”
According to Sister Renita, funding from philanthropic organizations like the Enterprise Holdings Foundation, as well as from individual donors, is essential for the operation of the wide range of ministries that her congregation offers.
“Throughout our history we have been known for serving with others with humility, for being prayerful and hopeful women,” she said. “We do not focus on one place, one ministry, or one institution for our identity. We believe the world is our cloister and go forth enabling and empowering people to live the Gospel with hope and joy.”
For more information on the ministries of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, or how you can join them in re-connecting with God’s creation, go to their website at www.franciscansisters-olph.org, or stop by their facility at 335 S. Kirkwood Road in St. Louis.
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About the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Since 1901, the common mission of the Sisters is to be a transforming presence in society. They dedicate their lives to witness the Gospel compassionately and joyfully. They enable and empower others to live with hope and joy. The Sisters have a special commitment to care for creation, the first book written by God.