CLINTON – The Sisters of St. Francis invite the public to join them at Vespers — evening prayer — on each of the Sundays of Lent beginning at 6 p.m. in the chapel of their home, The Canticle, 841 13th Ave. N., Clinton.
“Lenten Vespers has become a wonderful tradition,” said Sister Joan Theiss, OSF. She is coordinating the six prayer services, the first of which will be Sunday evening, March 13.
“On that first Sunday of Lent, and continuing on March 20 and 27 and April 2, 10 and 17, we invite our neighbors and friends to join us in song, in reflecting on the Scripture readings of the season, and in praying together for conversion of heart.
“This season, we are again inviting different Sisters and friends to share their Lenten reflections around the theme of living Franciscan values. Franciscanism is noted for promoting the values of poverty beauty, humility, joy, prayer and community.
“Solemn Vespers, or evening prayer, is an ancient tradition,” she explained. “It is a time to look back on the day just passed with all its saving graces and pray in thanksgiving.”
“Vespers is also a song of salvation,” noted Sr. Theiss. “Vespers is prayed at the chronological time that Christ was seated with his apostles in the upper room for the Last Supper.”
For more information, call (563) 242-7611. Lenten Vespers last about 45 minutes. Parking is available in front of The Canticle. Directions to The Canticle are available at www.clintonfranciscans.com.
