As has become a lovely tradition, the Franciscan Companionship spent a few days together again this year – this time at the end of August in Bad Gleichenberg, at the home of our members Elisabeth and Leo.

The weather wasn’t always at its best, but the days were still richly filled. We visited several museums and churches and were able to experience the impressive landscape of the Styrian Vulkanland.

A special experience was the trip to Slovenia, to the Church of Sv. Helena in Pertoča. There, the pastor gave us an introduction to the impressive mosaic by Marko Rupnik. The weather-related alternative program: a pumpkin seed oil tour in Fehring followed by shopping in the mill shop proved to be a successful enrichment.

Of course, Straden, Elisabeth’s hometown, was also a must. Together we celebrated a service there for jubilarian couples and then learned exciting things about the town as well as the St. Sebastian Church, the Tiefkirche (deep church), the main parish church and the St. Florian Church.

All in all, they were once again wonderful days full of heartfelt encounters, enriching conversations, shared experiences of faith and many cheerful moments.