Each day, requests for prayers come to Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration from across the globe—messages of hope, gratitude and longing. Some request healing for a loved one, others seeking guidance in difficult times and more. These prayer intentions, approximately 36,000 each year, are entrusted to the Loving Presence in adoration—a ministry that continues to bridge hearts and lives through faith. This work, which began 160 years ago with the twofold promise made by Mother Antonia Herb, lives on today through the commitment of FSPA, their prayer partners and the countless lives touched as a result of these prayers. Susan Brown, FSPA Perpetual Adoration Ministry Coordinator, has witnessed firsthand the power of prayer to transform lives, including her own.
"An honor to hold these intentions"
Susan describes her work as a profound privilege. “It’s an honor to do this holy and important work,” Susan shares, expressing gratitude for the support of the sisters and prayer partners who give so generously of their time to pray. For Susan, adoration has become more than a ministry—it has reshaped her prayer life. “I pray differently now than I did before my role,” she reflects. Time spent in adoration has deepened her connection between the intentions she receives and the trust placed in the power of prayer. Over the years, Susan has witnessed small and big miracles. One particularly striking was of a person who fell 15 feet into an empty elevator shaft resulting in life-threatening wounds, including a traumatic brain injury. As she received updates from loved ones, she witnessed the recovery unfold: “Our friend is moving now,” they said. Then, “Our friend is standing.” Though modern medicine played a role, Susan sees this as part of the miracle, a testament to the power of prayer.
Honoring 160 years of perpetual adoration—from sisters who began the sacred ministry to those who continue it today.
Reflections from prayer partners
Prayer partners experience adoration in personal and transformative ways. Each reflection offers a glimpse into the peace, connection and spiritual renewal found in the time of prayer.
"Adoration, to me, is a sacred space of stillness where I can fully open my heart to God’s presence. In these quiet moments of prayer, I find strength, peace, and a deep connection to the divine.
I choose to be a prayer partner because I believe in the power of prayer to uplift, heal, and unite. Just as Mother Antonia Herb made The Promise 160 years ago, I feel called to carry that spirit of devotion forward, offering my prayers for those in need and for the greater good of our community.
It is a privilege to walk this journey with you, and I am grateful for the shared commitment we have in faith and prayer. May God bless you abundantly in your spiritual journey."
—Shanen Baures, FSPA affiliate and prayer partner
"My first visit to the Adoration Chapel was as a young child while visiting my Aunt, Sister Rosetta Trinkes. Our family visited often during the summer, and my aunt would always give us to see Jesus in the Adoration Chapel.
Years passed, and our family visits soon included my own children, continuing the tradition of saying a prayer in the chapel. In 2015, after many fond memories, I answered the call to become a prayer partner.
For the past 10 years, I’ve loved coming to the chapel, especially in the early mornings. The candles lit, flowers beautifully arranged and the quiet presence of Jesus make it the best place to start the day. I feel a deep closeness to Jesus and our Blessed Mother when I pray for the many requests that come each week, and I am grateful for this time of peace and connection."
—Janice Berry, FSPA prayer partner
"In the presence of our Creator, I am reminded that I am an integral part of the cosmos—connected in mind, body, soul, and spirit. My hour of praise and gratitude is a sacred privilege, allowing me to represent all creation before the Eucharistic Presence.
This time of meditation and contemplation deepens my compassion, gratitude, and understanding of God’s unconditional love. In these quiet moments, I encounter the Great Spirit’s creative power, inspiring me to bring love and service into the world.
—Sandra Hoeser, FSPA affliate and prayer partner
"My adoration hour is my weekly rejuvenation. The hour of silence and reflection grounds my spirit and helps me focus on gratitude. When I pray for those on the prayer list, I am reminded of how fortunate I am. In our turbulent world, this hour of silence and prayer heals my soul."
— Linda Wissing, FSPA prayer partner
"Adoration is a time of peace, love, joy, and reflection. It is a moment to thank God for His abundant blessings and to offer gratitude for prayers answered."
—Lynnetta Kopp, FSPA prayer partner
"For me, adoration is a time to reflect on how I can better serve humanity and strive for peace and justice in our world. It is also a time to pray for all who request our prayers."
—Carol Mader, FSPA prayer partner
"I look forward to adoration every week. The opportunity to spend an hour in such a beautiful place with the Lord is very special to me. I only wish I had moved to La Crosse before 2018."
—Nicholas Berry, FSPA prayer partner
"Adoration is my quiet time with the Lord — a time to listen, speak, and surrender my worries to Him. After a bad day or before a challenging situation, I find that hour essential to settle my heart and mind."
—Mary Hovel, FSPA prayer partner
"Spending time in the Adoration Chapel allows me to center myself and be with Jesus. I can let go of worries, thoughts, and to-do lists and simply be present in God’s love. It renews my spirit."
—Paula Silha, FSPA prayer partner
"Adoration means quiet, contemplative support and listening. I feel the grace of the community as we come and go among the sisters each week. I’m so grateful for this experience and pray I will continue to be part of it for many years to come."
—Katherine Krage, FSPA prayer partner
A glimpse into adoration with FSPA
Become a prayer partner
Since 1997, FSPA has invited people in the La Crosse, Wisconsin, area to be Eucharistic Prayer Partners—an opportunity that allows people to take a break from busy lives, grow closer to God and pray for others. Today, more than 200 people serve as Eucharistic Prayer Partners. Learn more about becoming a prayer partner here.