Days of Reflection offer special opportunity for prayer and fellowship

Nov. 15 wasn’t just any other day for Rugby resident, Rita Graber. Although she stayed close to home, she participated in a Day of Reflection with the Hankinson Franciscans, taking advantage of the online option, while others attended in person.

For many years, people of various ages and walks of life have been benefiting from monthly retreat days at St. Francis Retreat Center in Hankinson, setting time aside for prayer and reflection. Over the years, topics and formats have varied, but the days have enriched the lives of the faithful from the Diocese of Fargo and beyond.

Currently, the days include brief presentations by Sr. Mary Ruth Huhn, discussions, private prayer periods, and other group prayer exercises, centering on suggested scriptures and reflection questions. For Graber, who has attended a number of programs offered by the Sisters over the years, the sharing of the fruits of private prayer times with other participants is one of the highlights.  

Another participant, Claudia Brandt of Wyndmere, also an Associate of the Sisters, noted that she appreciates these days as “a way to learn and grow in faith.” She also enjoys the opportunity for fellowship and sharing with other people. Traveling all the way from Wheaton, Minn., Sheila Pohl, another attendee, added that setting time aside for “thought and prayer, reading scripture and fellowship with other believers, learning from each other” is meaningful to her.

Days of Reflection with the Hankinson Franciscans began over 30 years ago, when Sr. Mary Louise Jundt and Sr. Mary James Merrick began a monthly program to serve the faithful in the area. They brought in speakers and used video content to help form and inspire those who came. Later, Sr. Susan Marie Loeffen succeeded Sr. Mary James in this role. 

When these Sisters were no longer able to continue this work, the Saturday retreat program took a bit of a pause. However, Sr. Mary Ruth has been again offering days of reflection for a number of years now. Currently, the days begin at 10 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. They include a noon meal together, which is a special time for sharing and fellowship as well. The annual schedule generally goes from September until May. This year, the Days of Reflection are held on the third Saturday of the month, and the theme centers on Franciscan spirituality in anticipation in 2026 of the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death. 

Those interested in more ongoing spiritual enrichment and formation are invited to take part in a weekly small group program, either online or in-person, on Mondays. Topics for these discussion groups also vary. In the new year, they will include a study on the Gospel of St. Matthew.

For more information about these Days of Reflection or small groups, contact Sr. Mary Ruth at (701) 242-7195 or [email protected].