FSPA celebrates new covenant affiliate

On Oct. 16, 2009, FSPA welcomed new covenant affiliate Dawn Heckenkamp. She recently reflected on the Franciscan influence that guided her to this commitment.

It was a newspaper article that drew Dawn to FSPA. “The story featured Marilyn Pedretti, who had built a solar-powered, energy efficient straw house in Holmen, Wis., that was ‘in keeping with the Franciscan values she espoused as an affiliate with the FSPA.’”

Dawn recalls reading about Marilyn’s vow to integrate her Franciscan values into every day living and thinking, “‘I want to do that!’ I’d experienced a longing for a deeper connection and expression of my faith and values. I felt our Lord calling me to become part of a religious group,” says Dawn.

Her volunteer efforts reflect her desire to uphold Franciscanism. Dawn teaches religion to ninth graders and is on the prayer chain for the Angels of Mercy through Blessed Sacrament Parish in La Crosse. Serving the veteran, disabled and blind and deaf community in Monroe County through her employment with Wisconsin’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is another expression of her devotion.

“I remember to try to strive to live the Gospel values during my work life and my personal life,” says Dawn, who models her faith life to her six children and “loads of beautiful grandchildren.” She enjoys knitting, swimming and reading: “I try to make an effort to always grow in knowledge of my faith by doing a lot of spiritual reading,” says Dawn. Affiliate Janet Stuhldreher is her sponsor.