The Franciscan Sisters of the Poor over the years
Our History
In gratitude for all that we are, all we have been, and all who were part of the journey,
we celebrate 15 years of service in 2027,
ready to anchor our future in the strength of our legacy.
Franciscan Ministries, Inc. grew out of the community work of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor.
In keeping with their Franciscan heritage, their ministries focused on serving those in need. Our ministries are an extension of this long history of service to the poor.
Haircuts from the Heart, the first of our programs, was founded by Sr. Bonnie Steinlage in 1988.
A few years later, in 1992, Our Lady of the Woods first welcomed residents under the direction of Sr. Antonita Mettert and remained open until late 2019.
Tau House, formerly Franciscans for the Poor, began in 1996, under the guidance of first Sr. Marie Clement Edrich and then Sr. Karen Hartman.
Blessed Frances Schervier, known
as "Mother Frances," founded the
Franciscan Sisters of the Poor in 1845
TheCommunity Garden began on a small scale in 2009 with the desire of the Sisters to use the land for the benefit of others. The Garden became a full program under Franciscan Ministries in 2016.
In 2010, the Centennial Barn and Tamar's Center opened their doors, and Art for All People began.
- Art for All People, created by an Associate of the Sisters, operated under the FM umbrella from
2012 until 2016.
-The leading force behind Tamar's Center and its mission was Sr. Grace Miriam Pleiman. Operations
continued until suspended in 2025.
-The restoration of the Centennial Barn was spearheaded by Sr. Arlene McGowan. The space now
hosts three non-profits, including Franciscan Ministries, for their offices and programming.
Our programs incorporated under the auspice of Franciscan Ministries, Inc. in January of 2012.