Perpetual Adoration

Hours since
Aug. 1, 1878

Perpetual Adoration has been a cherished practice of FSPA since August 1, 1878—hence our name: Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. Through February 25, 2020, at least two people prayed before the Blessed Sacrament every hour of the day and night in our Adoration Chapel. Today, we continue this prayer daily. It is a way of maintaining awareness of God's presence in our lives and praying for the community, the city of La Crosse, Wisconsin, the church and the world.

Each person has a human need to adore. It is one's response when contemplating all the wonder that life holds. This tradition of perpetual adoration reminds us of God's presence in our lives and the need for our presence in the lives of others. 

To submit a prayer request, please use our online prayer request form.

Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration 
Through perpetual eucharistic adoration, we offer to God continuous praise and thanksgiving before the Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar. Nurtured and strengthened by Jesus' presence, we live out this adoration in our daily lives as we strive to help those in need.

Prayer Requests from around the world
Each marker represents international prayer requests received (click or tap marker to see city name).

History of Our Adoration

Since 1878, Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration have been praying in the Adoration Chapel inside St. Rose Convent, La Crosse, Wisconsin.

The practice began after Mother Antonia Herb, then-leader of the congregation, made several requests to the local bishop for permission to begin perpetual adoration. Concerned it would impose too great a burden on the sisters, he refused.

Determined to establish perpetual adoration, the sisters tested its potential effect on the community by praying in pairs in two-hour shifts. After demonstrating it was possible, the congregation, then called the Sisters of St. Francis, began praying 24 hours a day with the bishop's blessing on August 1, 1878, at 11 a.m. Soon thereafter, they became the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. 

From that long-ago beginning, at least two people prayed before the Blessed Sacrament all day and through the night until Feb. 25, 2020. Today, the daily tradition—and enduring promise—of perpetual adoration reminds us, God is present in our lives at any location and at all times. 

The Lard Light Story

For FSPA, there is great significance associated with the lard light, the candle set within a deep dish. Read the Lard Light Story.

Adoration In Action