Since Aug. 1, 1878, sisters have prayed in the Adoration Chapel. 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, and with the bishop's blessing, the sisters began praying 24 hours a day on Aug. 1, 1878, at 11 a.m.
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 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. reminds us, God is present in our lives at any location and at all times.
On Aug. 1, 2025, sisters, affiliates, prayer partners and partners in mission gathered in Mary of the Angels Chapel at St. Rose Convent in La Crosse, to celebrate the anniversary of perpetual adoration. The bell was rung 147 times to honor the past 147 years of perpetual adoration, plus once more to usher in the new year.
"As we begin the 148th year of perpetual adoration, may the Spirit who guided our past leaders and all those who have preceded us, lead us into another grace-filled year of perpetual adoration," said Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration President Sue Ernster.
"May we continue to witness the presence of God throughout the world today. We implore you, Creator God, to graciously hear and answer our prayers."
Watch a recording of the 2025 bell ringing ritual and perpetual adoration anniversary Mass below: