PRAY FOR THE REPOSE OF THE SOUL OF OUR
SISTER ANNUNCIATA COLLINS FMSL
WHO DIED THIS MORNING 12TH MAY 2012
IN CASTLEBAR HOSPITAL. HER FAMILY WERE
WITH HER.
SHE WILL RETURN TO ST MARY OF THE ANGELS
IN KNOCK BEFORE GOING TO HER HOME PLACE IN
KERRY FOR BURIAL.
Sr Anne will arrive in Knock around 12 Noon.
Sr Elizabeth and Sr Martha are already over there.
All the Congregation are with them in prayer,thoughts
and love.
Another great character has gone to join our FMSL Sisters
in the Kingdom of the Father.
MAY SHE REST IN PEACE.

We are deeply saddened to announce Sister Celestine died suddenly on Saturday 17 December 2011. She had been a patient in St Joseph's nursing home (Littlehampton) for a number of years. Sr Celestine's funeral took place Monday 10 January 2012 at 11.00am followed by burial in Littlehampton cemetary.

Sister Ursula O'Shaunghnessy FMSL RIP

We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Sister Ursula O'Shaunghnessy (who had been cared for in our Nursing Home) on the morning of the 8 December 2011. Sister Ursula's funeral took place on Monday 19 December at 10.30am. Followed by burial in Littlehampton cemetery.

Sister Ursula was born in Dublin and made her profession in the FMSL 25 March 1949. She spent many years working in our St Francis nursing home, caring for the patients and supporting their relatives. In recent years she became a patient in St Joseph's nursing home where she died peacefully. She celebrated her Diamond Jubilee in May 2009. Please pray for Sister Ursula's sister Sally who is in hospital in Dublin and undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

Fr Peter Rogers RIP

We are deeply saddened to announce Fr Peter Rogers, chaplain at St Joseph's Franciscan Convent died on Tuesday 29 November 2011, after a short illness. His funeral Mass took place on Monday 12 December 2011 at Arundel Cathedral. Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Kieran Conry and priests of the Diocese followed by burial in Cathedral Cemetery nearby. To read Fr Peter's obituary on the A&B News blog, please click this link:

We are deeply saddened to announce Fr Peter Rogers, chaplain at St Joseph's Franciscan Convent died on Tuesday 29 November 2011, after a short illness. His funeral Mass took place on Monday 12 December 2011 at Arundel Cathedral. Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Kieran Conry and priests of the Diocese followed by burial in Cathedral Cemetery nearby. To read Fr Peter's obituary on the A&B News blog, please click this link http://aandbblog.blogspot.com/2012/01/fr-peter-rogers-rip.html

We are deeply saddened to announce Sister Attracta Fagan died 26 October 2011.
Sister Attracta was born in Longford Eire and made her Profession in the FMSL on 6 January 1950. She was a vey dedicated teacher in Copthorne and a Parish Catechist almost all her life. She moved to our Nursing Home here in St Joseph’s (Littlehampton) early in the year 2011 due to deteriorating ill health. She regained a better quality of life and was able to attend mass in the choir daily. She slipped quietly away to God on the evening of the 26 October 2011. Her funeral Mass took place at 11.00 a.m. Thursday 3 November 2011 followed by burial in Littlehampton Cemetery. We ask your prayers for Sister Attracta; the Congregation; her family and all the pupils whom she taught down the years.
May she pray for us all from Heaven.

Sr Clare Bernadette (left) Sr Attracta (middle) with Sr Anne (Mother General)

On Our Lady’s birthday, 8 September 2011 Sr Attracta was received into the Noviciate of The Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Littlehampton (FMSL). The simple ceremony took place during Evening Prayers. In the photograph one can see Sr Attracta, having been accepted by Sr Anne McLaughlin (Mother General), being helped by Sr Clare Bernadette (Novice Formator) to put on the simple white veil of a novice Sister. Sr Attracta spent her Postulantcy at our mother house, St Joseph’s convent, Littlehampton. She will continue her FMSL formation, for the next two years, under the direction of Sr Clare Bernadette in our Canterbury community. We ask you to pray for all our sisters in formation and we wish them every blessing for the future. For further details and photographs please visit our: FMSL Initial Formation Blogspot

We are delighted to announce Sr Anne McLaughlin was elected as our Mother General on 1 August 2011.

Sr Clare Bernadette Knowles was elected as Sr Anne's assistant.

Srs Clare Bowers, Anastasia and Barbara were also elected on to the council.

Monday 18 July 2011 the Barn Choir raised (with donations) £1400.00 for our Mission in Peru. Sr Clara (briefly) addressed the people there and explained where some of the money is used. The concert was indeed a delight. The young instrumentalists SAM BROWN (GUITAR) and JUSTIN KWOK (Piano) had everyone spellbound. The Quintessential Quintet (recorders and Guitars) were awe inspiring. The whole concert was well co ordinated and the selection of pieces by the choir gave a very relaxed and entertaining hue to the whole evening.
We thank David Rudling (whose wife died about 6 weeks ago) for Directing Choir. Nigel who was his brother in law also died some months ago. The first part of the Concert was given in memory of our Sister Angela - she had supported the Choir by her presence and encouragement down the years. The Christmas Concert the Choir will celebrate 25 years!
We too must join in this celebration. Thank you to all who gave of their time and talents for the benefit of Peru and all who came and supported the event. Sr Anastasia

Barn Choir Summer 2011

Father Peter Rogers Chaplain direct: 01903 711327

Generalate St Joseph's Convent direct 01903 711328

St Joseph's Convent direct: 01903 711326

Nurse Manager & Nursing Home direct 01903 711325

Registered Nurse Manager : Mrs Jean Bulley

Sister Clare Bowers Nursing Home Finance : 01903 711302

New fax Number for entire House: 01903 711329

We are deeply saddened to announce Sister Fidelis died on Tuesday 5 July 2011 in Marie Curie Hospice, Leeds Road, Bradford where she went for assessment. Her condition of Motor Neurone needed further medical help. Her death was sudden. Her funeral Mass took place at 11.00 am Thursday 21 July 2011, followed by burial in Littlehampton Cemetery. Please pray for Sr Fidelis's soul, Sr Fidelis's family and all the FMSL Sisters.

Funeral Eulogy By Sr Anastasia is on our Notices page

Sr Philomena (Left) and Sr Savio (Right) with Bishop Kieran (Centre)

African dance during Offertory procession at Centenary Mass

The Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Littlehampton had a season of celebrations - a true Franciscan approach to life. It all began on the 20 May 2011, with a gathering of our Bishop, Priests, Sisters, Friends and Relatives of Sisters Philomena Knock) and Savio (Copthorne) who celebrated their Jubilee of Religious Profession here in St Joseph's The Mother House of the Congregation. This beautiful day was followed on the 5 June, when the Bishop returned, to lead the celebration of our 100 years as a Diocesan Congregation. We gave thanks to God for all he has achieved in and through our Congregation during this time. We recognise all the Bishops, Priests fellow Religious and the many people who have supported us with their prayer and help down the years. Mother Patrick began the Mission of caring for children in Littlehampton with £5. Those early Sisters' trust in Divine Providence and dedication to the needs of the Church was great. This can never be purchased by money. Our early Sisters knew God would provide the means, if they gave their lives in complete dedication to the service he called them to, in the region of Littlehampton and beyond. The Congregation still holds on to this trust as we move into our 2nd century. We ask your prayers that God will keep us faithful to our Mission and his call.

On the 18 June we celebrated with Fr Kevin Steen his Golden Jubilee of Priesthood with a magnificent Church gathering around Father Kevin, of our Bishop; Priest Friends; Family; Friends from various Parishes where Fr Kevin ministered ; and Staff and the Community of St Joseph's. We thank Bishop Kieran for giving us so much of his time and for all who joined us for the festivities. We ask your prayers for our FMSL General Chapter 1 - 7 August 2011.

We pray God to bless Tony, his family, and his generous friends.

Attracta in the foreground with Sr Innocentia to her right and Sr Clare Bernadette to her left

Please visit click the link below to visit our FMSL initial formation blog and catch up on all the latest formation news:

FMSL Initial Formation Blogspot

Sr Anastasia is looking for sponsors for Tony McKenna President of Weald of Kent Catenians. Tony is cycling around Kent in order to raise money for three different charities, one of which is the FMSL mission in Peru. Tony's daughter, Alison (a nurse) spent some time with the FMSL Sisters in Peru, helping them with their work. Please read Tony's report (below) on his trip so far.

Sponsorship forms can be obtained from Sr Anastasia Tel: 01903 714039

Forms will also be available from St Joseph's convent, Littlehampton.

Please keep Tony and his family in prayer.

The Edwin James Choir performed 'Jesus Christ Superstar' Friday 18 March 2011 in St Joseph's convent chapel, Littlehampton. The performance was brilliant and was a real meditation and beautifully performed. The retiring collection took £611.00 for our Mission in Santa Rosa, Lima, Peru. Thank you to the Edwin James Choir and all who came and supported the event in any way. Please visit our FMSL Blog to see more news on our Mission in Peru: FMSL Initial Formation Blogspot

The FMSL Sisters had the use of the shop 10 Beach Road, Littlehampton on the following dates. Friday and Saturday 18 & 19 February 2011 and Friday and Saturday 25 & 26 February 2011.

We took a total of £740.30 for our two weekends in the shop in Littlehampton. We are grateful to Arun District Council and the Community Social team for allowing us to use their premises in Beach Road. Again this shop was a haven for people who just wanted to chat and share stories. Our helpers enjoyed all who came and spent money and exchanged ideas and gifts. The above sum is fantastic.

Sister Angela FMSL - Died 7 February 2011

The FMSL Sisters have been very fortunate in having Monsignor Michael Jackson lead several days of reflection and a day retreat on the life of St Francis and his spirituality. It has been decided to make Monsignor Jackson’s talks available via an FMSL Blog. Please follow the link below to the blog. If you feel moved by anything you have read there, please feel free to add your own comment to the blog. The details of Monsignor Jackson's 'Day of Relection' on Tuesday September 14 2010 are now available on the FMSL Blog. May the Lord bless you and give you peace.

Mgr Michael Jackson's Talks

The play was written and directed by Dario Fo, recipient of the Nobel Prize for literature in 1997. Mario is a great friend and collaborator of Dario Fo and has translated this one man play from Italian to English himself.

Engaging his audience from beginning to end the charismatic Mario acted out episodes in the life of St Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan orders. The result was a deeply entertaining and informative theatrical experience. He managed to transport his audience back to medieval Italy and bring to life stories of Popes, peasants, saints and sinners. Without the use of costumes or theatrical props his performance was extremely energetic, utterly uplifting and genuinely thought provoking. His ability to switch between characters in each tale, using simple and subtle gestures and voice tone was remarkable. All one hundred tickets were sold and the local press were in attendance.

As always the FMSL Sisters hospitality excelled and the audience were provided with a veritable feast during the interval. Sr Anastasia would like to thank all who made the evening such a success. A very special thank you must go to Mario, without his talent and generous spirit the event would not have taken place.

Mario has performed this play and many others around the world. Therefore, if you get the chance to see Mario Pirovano in action - don't miss it!

Sr Mary Magdalene (Left) Br Philippe Yates and Sr Rose of Lima (Right)

For further details of their Profession and pictures please visit our: FMSL Initial Formation Blogspot

Two novices said ‘yes’ to the divine invitation to follow God and live life the Jesus way, the Gospel way, in Sisterhood and community.

Sister Mary Magdalene and Sister Rose of Lima made their first profession stage on 8 September 2010 at St Joseph’s convent Littlehampton. The day was a joyful occasion and both Sisters were joined by family, friends and members of the FMSL community. Br Philippe Yates (Principal of the Franciscan International Study Centre) was the main celebrant at the profession Mass.

After Mass, relatives, friends and FMSL Sisters joined both Sisters in a celebratory lunch. The Sisters would like to thank everybody who made this day special and been part of their faith journey over the years.

Both Sisters have spent their two year novitiate in our Canterbury community following a formation programme including courses in the convent and the Franciscan International Study Centre. They studied many subjects including scripture, liturgy, FMSL history and constitutions, Franciscan prayer and spirituality, religious life including Vatican II papal documents.The Evangelical Counsels, stewardship, psychology for self-knowledge and community living. They were also trained and commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers.

Sister Magdalene will continue her mission by taking a training course in youth leadership and chaplaincy. Sister Rose will continue her mission and studies by working with the poor and homeless.

Are you considering a call to consecrated life? Don’t waste time wondering if you have a call. Do something about it. Call or e-mail us to begin a conversation.

The FMSL Sisters have been very fortunate in having Monsignor Michael Jackson lead several days of reflection and a day retreat on the life of St Francis and his spirituality. It has been decided to make Monsignor Jackson’s talks available via an FMSL Blog. Please follow the link below to the blog. If you feel moved by anything you have read there, please feel free to add your own comment to the blog. May the Lord bless you and give you peace.

Mgr Michael Jackson's Talks

Srs Promodini & Elizabeth lead the offertory

Srs Fabian, Felicity, Bishop Kieran, Attracta, Eugene Clara and Regina

Fr Tony, Anne Collins and Mary (daughter)

Parishioners from several local parishes joined the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Littlehampton (FMSL) to celebrate a Day of Reflection led by Mgr Michael Jackson. The theme of the day was ‘In the footsteps of St Francis, the outward journey: Chaste and forgiving love.” The inward journey is a journey of repentance; the outward journey one of chaste and forgiving love embracing the fundamental Franciscan spirituality, of poverty and humility.

We reflected on how St Francis and his followers took the humility of the Incarnation and the charity of Christ’s Passion as lamps for their steps as they tried to follow Christ perfectly in their relations with others.

An examination of conscience guide was prepared for participants to use during exposition of the ‘Blessed sacrament.’ The afternoon started with a penitential service and the opportunity for individuals to receive the sacrament of reconciliation. Bishop John Crowley, Mgr Michael Kirkham (who were holidaying at the convent) and Fr Peter Rogers (our resident chaplin) joined this special service. The day concluded with the celebration of Mass and all four priests concelebrating

The next day of reflection is Tuesday 14 September 2010. Please let us know if you would like to join us. Suggested donation for the day £5.00 (five) pounds. To include, teas, coffee and a simple lunch of bread and soup. To contact the Sisters please e-mail: fmsl@franciscan.co.uk

For the latest news from our prepostulancy, postulancy, novitiate and juniorate, visit:

FMSL Initial Formation Blogspot

Photo: Sr Clare Bernadette thanked all who had joined her in her celebratory Mass. She especially thanked her Parents for raising her in the Catholic Faith and supporting her in her decision to join the (FMSL). She ended her address by announcing, “ This is the happiest day of my Life”.

During the service Sister Clare Bernadette promised to respond to the mystery of God’s continuing call by uniting herself more closely to Him through the bond of Final Profession in the congregation of the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Littlehampton (FMSL).

After Mass, relatives, friends and FMSL Sisters joined Sr Clare Bernadette in a celebratory lunch.

That evening Sr Clare’s sister Colette entertained those present with a shadow puppet theatre performance together with her boyfriend Tim and accompanied by the musical talents of their friend Leo.

Sr Clare Bernadette has recently returned from a six month Sabbatical with our Mission in India, where she assisted with the formation of our Indian novitiate. Sr Clare returned to England to receive the marvellous news that she had passed her MA in Franciscan studies, with distinction. She starts her PhD in October and will also be directing the Novices in their formation in the Novitiate at Monte Bré, Canterbury.

Fr André transported the group to Assisi, in mind body and spirit.
Using a series of visual aids, PowerPoint presentations and Fr André’s extensive knowledge and wisdom, pilgrims were taken on a journey in the footsteps and spirituality of St Francis and St Clare, while remaining in Littlehampton.

Retreatants visited Assisi, San Damiano, The Porziuncola, The Carceri, La Verna and the Basilicas of both Francis and Clare. On a daily basis pilgrims were enlightened and inspired by the enthusiasm of Fr André. Pilgrims were invited to begin a day of solitude and reflect on St Francis’s document on solitude.

Each day had its own special morning and evening prayers using the prayers and readings associated with St Francis and leading Franciscan scholars. These unique liturgies helped the pilgrim try to imagine and discover the faces of Francis and Clare, enabling them to turn their spirit towards the heart of Christ.

Pilgrims were renewed in mind, body and spirit and all were grateful to Fr André and his assistant Sr Clare Bernadette (FMSL) for sharing Assisi with us a city of light…a city of silence and eternity…a place of and at peace…a haven of peace suspended between heaven and earth...an oasis.

Retreat: September 2008 at Littlehampton led by Fr André Cirino, OFM

Fr André Cirino, OFM

Mass was concelebrated by Mgr Michael Jackson, Br Philippe Yates OFM Principal of the Franciscan International Study Centre (FISC) Fr Peter Rogers, Fr John Healy and visiting from the Ukraine, Fr Vasyl. During the ceremony, Sr Antonia promised to lead a life of dedicated service and to keep the Rule and Constitutions of the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Littlehampton (FMSL).

In his Homily Br Philippe reminded the congregation “Our Lord tells us that it is only by abandoning all that we think is so important and placing him at the centre of our lives that we will come to a fullness.” This is the heart of Sr Antonia’s dedication and life of service.

After Mass, relatives, friends and FMSL Sisters joined Sr Antonia in a celebratory lunch. As always the staff at St Joseph’s excelled with their culinary skills and hospitality.

It was a joyful and spiritual day enjoyed by everyone present. Our congratulations to our five Jubilarians Sisters and we wish them continued blessings from the Lord in the years ahead.

In Honour of Sister Stanislaus 60th Jubilee, The Yanks visit. (Letter from Presentation Sisters)

We were warmly welcomed to the Magnificent Jubilee Mass by Sister Anastasia, Mother General.

Later in the week, in expressing his gratitude to the Sisters at Holy Mass, Father Tom Dillion, cousin of Sister Felicity and Sister Ignatius, said, “You are an oasis in the wilderness on our journey through life.” He captured our experience with you beautiful sisters who truly reflect the image of God in your warm and welcoming hospitality, prayerful, respectful spirits, fun and charming ways, and delightful and engaging conversations.

We were blessed to be with you as guests of Sister Stanislaus and Sister Martha whose auntie, Sister Martha Raleigh, was our beloved friend and mentor at our Presentation Sisters Motherhouse in Aberdeen, South Dakota, USA.

We leave you and your oasis with our hearts filled with gratitude and renewed energy. May God bless you and all you embrace a thousand fold with peace, love and joy.

In the words of your Jubilee song, Laudato si, we pray, “Be praised, O my Lord. For our life is but a song and the reason for our singing is to praise you for the music; join the dance of your creation.”
Thank you for the blessing of sharing the dance of God’s creation in the best of sisterhood. Our promise of love and prayers and counting on yours.

Sisters Kay and Michelle,
“The Yanks”
Eve of Pentecost, May 10 2008

Please keep all this new Community in your prayers. They pray each day for you and your families.

Santa Rosa, De Puenta Piedra Lima Peru. 10/10/07

Peru Earthquake:

We are pleased to announce that the Sisters are all fine. Everyone is shaken by the magnitude of the quake but little structural damage appears to have been suffered in Santa Rosa. Over the hill in Project Peru orphanage, some old houses suffered, but no one was hurt. Sister Barbara has flown out to help. Please pray for all those involved in this tragedy.

Sister Clare Bowers and Sister Anne Joseph receive their Papal Blessing from Bishop Kieran

St Joseph’s (Littlehampton) and Santa Rosa (Peru)
On Tuesday 19 December 2006 The Barn Choir, under the direction of David Rudling gave a most enjoyable Christmas Concert of Carols and music. Twice a year the Barn Choir freely give their talents in order to help raise money for the Sisters’ work amongst the disadvantaged of Lima, Peru.