October dawns with significant celebrations namely the feast of St Francis of Assisi, our Patron, on October 4; the feast of our Founder, Fr Urban Stein SJ, and the feast of St Ursula, our Patroness, on October 21.
The small seed sown by Fr Urban Stein has grown into a beautiful tree through God's grace and the dedicated efforts of our pioneers. Inspired by the apostolic spirit of St Angela Merici, the foundress of the Ursulines, and under the patronage of St Ursula, the Congregation grew in its mission. Through the hard work, faith and sacrifice of the pioneers, it became rooted in the Franciscan spirit and came to be known as the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation.
Today, these three lights invite us to look at our own vocation and mission so to renew our faith and commitment.
St Francis of Assisi-A light of Gospel simplicity
St Francis of Assisi was a man who allowed the Gospel literally to become his way of life. He teaches us to live through simplicity, humility, and fraternity, caring for the creation and in humble service. As we remember the 800th anniversary of his death, his life continues to speak to us. He reminds us that God can transform our weaknesses into strengths and use our simple lives to bring His love to others.
Fr Urban Stein SJ –A light of foundational vision:
Centered and deeply rooted in Christ, Fr Urban Stein SJ brought into reality the vision he had through his whole hearted ministry to the Church and responding to the needs of the time. With the motto ‘greatest good in shortest time’ encouraged and guided the pioneering members to offer the best in the mission entrusted to them. The flame we received from Fr Stein is not meant to remain with us but to be kept alive and handed on to others.
St Ursula – A light of courage and consecration
The life witness of St Ursula teaches us that every vocation includes both joy and challenge. Following Christ demands courage and faithfulness. The tradition of St Ursula and her companions speaks to us of their courage and total dedication to Christ. Their witness reminds us that consecrated life is a call to remain faithful to God in every situation.
UFS Charism-A gift and responsibility
At the heart of our vocation and charism is Christ, the true Light. We are called not simply to celebrate these figures from the past but to cherish and carry forward their sparks into present mission. Our pioneers received the flame from the Christ the true light. They preserved it through their sacrifice, faith and prayer, carried it through difficulties and handed it to us. Today the responsibility is ours. May Christ remain at the center of our lives, our vocation and our mission.
May St Francis teach us gratitude in every being, Fr Urban Stein inspire us to carry forward the heritage with love and commitment, St Ursula teach us to be faithful witnesses with courage and fidelity in our mission. As we honor and celebrate these lives let the celebrations become a time of renewal and recommitment and responsibility to carry forward the sparks and keep it alive.
