Celebrating a Century
August 06, 2024
This article appears in the August Issue of Reflections and Connections
On June 12, 2024, CSA Associate Frances Grace celebrated her 100th birthday and, just a few weeks later, was celebrated again as a 15-year associate jubilarian.
Frances Grace was born in Yonkers, New York, into the same family as CSA Sisters Emily Schug and Mary Frances Schug. As children, they were taught by Agnesians serving at Sacred Heart Parish. While her siblings felt a vocational call to religious life, Frances felt drawn to learning more about associate relationship after reading “Ordinary Sisters” by Margaret Lorimer, CSA.
During her discernment process, she understood and valued how the CSA Sisters were ever willing to try new ways of fulfilling Jesus’ work in the world. A sister might start with one mission, but realize that the times were calling her to change her approach and respond to the signs of the times. For example, Mother Agnes and her sisters started as teachers, then added the mission of healthcare when it was needed and continued to broaden their areas of service to the world’s needy.
Frances says one of the great blessings for her husband and her was their son Peter, who was born with Downs Syndrome. Peter inspired both of his parents to become involved in work with the disabled. As Frances sought out the special services Peter required, she saw a new mission for herself. Frances formed a group of parents of special needs children who approached doctors and other health professionals about how to give hope to parents confronted with difficult news. Her ministries have included serving as a catechist in the RCIA at Holy Family Parish, visiting and helping residents at St. Francis Home, and assisting at St. Francis Home chapel by giving communion to those less mobile, and serving as a lector and eucharistic minister. Frances currently assists the Associate Office by mailing birthday cards to CSA associates and prayer partners. On her birthday she was thrilled to receive cards of her own. “I got dozens of birthday cards from associates all over the country. What a great surprise!” She celebrated with her five children and their families and then again with sisters and associates all of whom showered her with love.