2 sisters participate in Secular Franciscan Order

Two biological sisters, Maria Hamilton and Mona Wolney, are sharing their experiences as members of the Secular Franciscan Order. Hamilton is a parishioner at Immaculate Conception in Columbia Heights, while Wolney belongs to St. John Neumann in Eagan. They will discuss their roles on an upcoming episode of Practicing Catholic on Relevant Radio 1330 AM, scheduled to air at 9 p.m. on Oct. 2.

Wolney said secular Franciscans do not have designated ministry responsibilities but often join individual apostolates at their parishes. She provides pastoral care by bringing Communion to homebound individuals and performing Communion service at a senior care facility. Hamilton noted that the group has prayed at abortion facilities and visited Sharing and Caring Hands, adding that they currently participate in prayer apostolates for the north Minneapolis area.

To join the order, the women completed a multi-stage process that began with monthly gatherings for seekers at St. Bridget in Minneapolis for at least three months. This was followed by an inquiry phase lasting at least six months before entering formal formation.