Franciscan Sisters at Springfield - Who We Are


		Tau Symbol: Revealed Word Tau - The common Franciscan sign symbolizes the richness of the past and at the same time, it is a challenge for the future. The TAU is a letter of the Greek alphabet and in spiritual terms represents the end or the fulfillment of the revealed word. It is a sign of life and salvation. In the Old Testament the prophet marks those with a Tau who have chosen to reject a sinful lifestyle (Ezekiel 9:4). And in Revelations those received the sign of salvation on their foreheads who professed themselves belonging to Jesus Christ (Rev. 7:2-3). A sermon presented by Pope Innocent III in 1215 was the inspiration for Saint Francis to use the Tau as a sign of his mission to preach penance and as an outward symbol of the religious order he founded. He blessed people with it; he signed his letters with the T; marked the walls of his cell. Therefore, it has become a characteristic symbol of the Franciscan movement serving God and the world sharing the message of peace and liberation as St. Francis did.
		Circular Cord: Franciscan Family The cord with the knots surrounding the T is representing of our belonging to the Franciscan family. The three knots are a symbol of the three evangelical counsels showing that we follow Jesus Christ by a life of poverty, obedience and celibate chastity and in free commitment to our community. The cord put around the T in a circle also symbolizes the world and, thereby, our International Congregation. At the same time, it represents our joining together focused toward the central symbol representing our community life and healing ministry of Christ. We are united by the central symbol of the Tau.
		Our Lady of Telgte: History The picture of our Lady of Telgte is imprinted on the reverse side of the medallions, brooches and pendants worn by members of the community. It reminds us of our place of foundation, the pilgrimage chapel in Telgte, Germany. It reminds us of Fr. Christopher Bernsmeyer's devotion to Mary as a companion in the journey of following her son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ.