Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, Minnesota

Assisi Heights mother house.

St. Mary's Hospital in 1910

Chapel and convent buildings of the College of Saint Teresa in Winona, Minnesota.

Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, Minnesota is a Roman Catholic religious congregation founded in 1877 in Rochester, Minnesota, United States. The congregation is dedicated to living the Gospel through the spirit of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, focusing on service, humility, and care for the poor and marginalized. The Sisters of Saint Francis have been instrumental in the development of healthcare, education, and social services in the region, most notably through their association with the Mayo Clinic.

History

The foundation of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, Minnesota, traces back to 1877 when Mother Mary Alfred Moes, a Franciscan Sister from Joliet, Illinois, was invited to Rochester by Bishop John Quinn to establish a new religious community. The initial mission of the Sisters was to teach in local schools and provide care for the needy. Their work took a significant turn in 1883, following a devastating tornado that struck Rochester. Mother Alfred Moes proposed the creation of a hospital to Dr. William Worrall Mayo and his sons, William and Charles Mayo, which led to the establishment of Saint Marys Hospital, marking the beginning of what would become the world-renowned Mayo Clinic.

Mission and Values

The Sisters of Saint Francis are committed to living out the values of Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi, emphasizing poverty, humility, and a deep love for all of creation. Their mission extends to various fields, including healthcare, education, social justice, and environmental stewardship. The congregation works tirelessly to address the needs of the poor, sick, and marginalized, advocating for systemic change and the protection of the environment.

Ministries

Over the years, the Sisters of Saint Francis have founded and supported numerous institutions and programs. Besides their pivotal role in the creation and expansion of the Mayo Clinic and Saint Marys Hospital, they have been involved in primary, secondary, and higher education, establishing schools and colleges. They also engage in pastoral care, retreat ministries, and missions both domestically and internationally. Their commitment to social justice is evident in their advocacy for peace, anti-racism, and care for the Earth.

Legacy and Impact

The Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, Minnesota, have left an indelible mark on the communities they serve. Their contributions to healthcare, through the Mayo Clinic and other health services, have had a global impact, advancing medical care and research. In education, they have nurtured generations of students with values-centered learning. Their efforts in social justice and environmental advocacy continue to inspire and effect change.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many religious congregations, the Sisters of Saint Francis face challenges such as declining vocations and the need for sustainable models of ministry. However, they continue to adapt and innovate, finding new ways to live out their mission and values in a changing world. The congregation remains committed to their foundational goals of serving the needy and advocating for justice and peace.

See Also

• Franciscan Sisters
• Mayo Clinic
• Saint Marys Hospital
• Catholic Church
• Religious congregation