the catholic community of st. francis of assisi
Jubilee Year of St. Francis
Welcome to a sacred year of reflection, renewal, and joyful celebration as we honor the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis of Assisi. Rooted in the spirit of humility, peace, and deep reverence for all creation, this Jubilee invites our community to rediscover the timeless wisdom of St. Francis and live more intentionally in harmony with God, one another, and the world around us.
Throughout this year, we will come together as a community in prayer, service, and celebration, embracing the Franciscan call to simplicity, compassion, and care for all living things.
The Legacy of Love
The St. Francis Preschool has been serving the families of the Catholic Community of St. Francis since 1991, providing a loving learning environment for our youngest parishioners. As the Preschool celebrates its 35th anniversary, it is in a unique position to welcome the 2nd generation of students from some of our families. Preschool Director Heidi Hobler is very excited about it: “I just met with another parent today whose husband was a student here, and now their two-year-old is starting with us. I think we are up to six parents now who went here and now have their own kids here.”
The father of that two-year-old is Ben Igo, who attended the Preschool and The Franciscan School. He and his wife Dara are excited to bring their son to the Preschool. “Growing up as a member of St. Francis for as long as I can remember,” says Ben, “I have always had an appreciation for how much this community cares, not only for the members of this community but also for the broader community and the world as a whole. The St. Francis Preschool is special in that it embodies this sense of care, commitment, and community. It imparts these qualities to the youngest members, helping to create a strong foundation for a life rooted in Jesus. ”
Walking With Moms In Need
Janine Costello, co-coordinator of the ‘Walking With Moms in Need’ ministry at St. Francis, describes how this ministry came into being at our parish. “The USCCB created this ministry, following the Dobbs Supreme Court decision in 2020, so that we could serve in a similar way to what pregnancy resource centers do, but in a more personal way,” explains Janine. They created a very thorough guide on how to create this ministry. Other parishes in the Raleigh area have served in this ministry for several years, particularly St. Mary Magdalene, which has been doing this ministry for five-plus years.”
The ‘Walking with Moms in Need’ ministry is a pro-life ministry in which several different volunteer opportunities are available. One of the volunteer groups, nicknamed ‘Walking Angels,’ socially, emotionally, and spiritually supports pregnant women and continues to accompany them until their child’s first birthday, if the mom wants them to. “These moms have courageously chosen life for their babies despite very challenging situations,” says Janine
2026 Bishop’s Annual Appeal
As a diocesan family, we are invited to join together in supporting the ministries, programs, and outreach efforts that bring Christ’s love into our parishes and communities. Your prayers and participation help strengthen Catholic education, support parish vitality, and extend care to those in need.
Please take time to reflect on how you can contribute to this mission of faith and service.