Sister Janice Reflects upon a Life of Service

Sister Janice Keenan, OSF was born in a rural community in central Illinois, the second oldest of nine children. Janice joined the Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception in West Peoria, IL at age 18 and celebrated her 50th Jubilee of religious profession in 2019. She has a B.S from Bradley University, Peoria in Math and Secondary Education, an M.S. in Educational Administration from St. Mary's University, Winona, MN and took part in the Religious Studies program in St. Louis University, Mo. She was trained in Franciscan spiritual direction in Cincinnati, OH.She has served in a variety of ministries including elementary education, campus ministry, spiritual direction and retreats for a variety of ages and groups. Sister Janice has also served her community in roles of Vocation and Formation Director as well as serving on the Leadership Council.She currently serves as the Director of Spiritual Ministries (Spiritual Director and Retreat Program Manager) at the Portiuncula Center for Prayer in Frankfort, Il. Besides reading, playing guitar and enjoying the outdoors, Sister Janice enjoys baking, doing puzzles, playing cards and traveling.In this episode, Sister Janice:Shares how growing up in a big family, a sense of community, and her love of nature led her to become a Franciscan sister.Describes daily life and her role in her community of sisters.Shares that the most rewarding aspect of her career is teaching.States that the most challenging part of her life is learning to live in a community with different people. She also shares that this very challenge resulted in her growth - in empathy, patience, and learning to listen.Tells us how she adjusts to occasional loneliness and why she has no regrets in the life she has chosen. She feels blessed in having nurtured so many people in her community.Shares advice for women considering religious life.Practical Tips:A quote by St Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”