AMELIA ARTH
STAFF WRITER
Women of the Franciscan University community filled the pews of Christ the King Chapel the evening of Sept. 5 for a night of “Healing and Hope.”
The night was hosted by graduate student Courtney Desmond and sponsored by the Counseling Center and Residence Life. It began at 9:00 p.m. with witness talks by women on campus about some of their struggles and how they have received healing from them.
Dr. Susan Poyo, assistant professor of education, spoke first. She encouraged the women gathered to “put God on the throne” instead of trying to control everything on their own.
According to senior Mary Beth Loeffler, who also gave witness to her struggles, God is the Divine Physician who “wants us to be whole and well and healed.” She left the women with a sense of hope.
Maura Conant, Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach, gave her witness last. She spoke on fear, recommending all to “be where your feet are… [for] that is where we have grace.” Conant ended with a prayer from the Novena of Surrender.
Desmond closed up the first portion of the night in prayer and passed out surveys to get feedback on possible new support groups for university women.
The second part of the evening was a healing Mass celebrated by the Rev. Rick Martignetti, OFM. The Mass was for women alone and included a post-communion reflection on the Father’s love and healing.
Senior Nicola Matty appreciated the event. “Whether you are a freshman or a senior, everyone is broken. It’s good to be honest,” said Matty.
“It’s nice to take the time to be with the Lord and realize there are a lot of people in the same boat I am,” freshman Rachel Stines agreed.