Area religious community leaders respond to death of Pope Francis

As they processed the news of the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, the leaders of the five religious communities in the Diocese of St. Cloud recalled what his papacy — with his emphasis on listening to and walking with those on the margins and concern for the care of God’s creation — has meant to their communities and the impact it has had on their ministries.

Franciscan Sisters’ new director of integral ecology has long history in the field

As director of integral ecology for the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Mike Schut works closely with Franciscan sisters, associates, staff, partners and others to facilitate the commitment of the sisters to caring for, listening to and seeking right relationship with all people, the Earth and all creation, especially those affected by injustice and exclusion.

Obituary: Franciscan Sister Frances Kempenich

Franciscan Sister Frances Kempenich, 97, died July 22 at St. Francis Convent, Little Falls. Receiving of the body of Sister Frances will be Thursday, July 28, at 9 a.m. followed by visitation until the time of her funeral at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Convent.