Sister John Frances LaFever (center) with Mother Miriam Seiferman, Mother General (left), and Mother Barbara Johnson, Vicar General.

MERIDEN, CT – Sister John Frances LaFever professed perpetual vows as a Franciscan Sister of the Eucharist on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sunday, August 15, 2021. The Reverend Christopher Tiano, pastor of Mary, Queen of the Apostles Parish, Derby, Connecticut, was the principal celebrant. In his homily, Father Tiano emphasized the overflowing graces, like a river, that Sister John Frances will receive in living out her vows through the intercession of Mary. He challenged all present to be a river of grace for others.

Concelebrants were Monsignor John J. Bevins, pastor emeritus of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Waterbury; and Reverend Jeffrey V. Romans, pastor of St. Bridget of Sweden Parish, Cheshire. Deacon Donald Philip of Meriden and Deacon Tom Grodek of Holy Spirit Parish, Annandale, Virginia assisted.

Mother Miriam Seiferman, FSE, Mother General, received Sister John Frances’ vows and expressed gratitude for the many people who have supported her process over the years. She specially thanked Father Tiano for his meaningful homily that beautifully captured the spirit and heart of religious life.

Sister John Frances’ parents, Janet and Kevin LaFever, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Annandale, Virginia, accompanied Sister John Frances in the entrance procession. Their daughters and spouses, Jessica and Paul Dexter, and Cynthia and Dave Trouteaud and son Alex also were present.

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