Name/Title
Werl Pilgrim ChurchEntry/Object ID
10.01.033Description
A stained glass window in the Basilica of the Visitation of Our Lady in Werl, Germany. Consecrated in 1911, the church houses the pious statue of the Virgin of Werl which dates to the 12th Century.
In April of 1863, Mother Clara Pfaender and accompanying Sisters stopped at this location on their way from Olpe to Salzkotten. The pilgrim church they prayed and attended Mass at, now known as the Alte Wallfahrtskirche (Old Pilgrim Church), is located next to the basilica.Context
Born in Germany in 1827, Mother Clara Pfaender founded the Franciscan Sisters, Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, in 1860. With a focus on education, nursing and care for orphaned children, the women reached out to those in need. In the following years, Sisters were sent to nations such as France, the Netherlands and the United States. There, they gained increased autonomy when America became a province in 1884, and by the early 20th Century, their health and education ministries included locations in Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Colorado. Looking to relocate, in 1947 land was purchased in Wheaton, Illinois and a new motherhouse was completed in 1955. As time passed, the Sisters continued to develop their healthcare ministry and addressed pressing issues such as Polio, Aids and affordable housing. During the early 21st Century, they celebrated the 150th anniversary of the congregation and found new sponsorships for their healthcare and housing ministries. Today, the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters continue to follow in the spirit of Mother Clara Pfaender by responding to the needs of the Church and our times.Lexicon
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Notes
Please contact the WFS Archives (archives@wfsisters.org) for further information or materials requests.