Members of the 2008-2012 leadership team for the Sylvania Franciscan Sisters are, from left, Sisters Nancy Linenkugel, councilor; Mary Jon Wagner, assistant congregational minister; Diana Lynn Eckel, congregational minister; and Patricia Gardner, councilor. (Photo courtesy of Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania)

The 2008-2012 Sylvania Franciscan leadership team includes Sisters Nancy Linenkugel, councilor; Mary Jon Wagner, assistant congregational minister; Diana Lynn Eckel, congregational minister; and Patricia Gardner, councilor.

With the theme, “I make all things new,” (Rev. 21:5a) the sisters conducted their Chapter of Affairs from April 6-9. Held every four years, the chapter gathers sister delegates from 12 of the 13 states and the country of Haiti, where the sisters minister, to set policy and direction for the next four years.

The Chapter of Affairs was immediately followed by their Chapter of Elections, which designated the leadership team for 2008-2012.

“I am humbled by the support and affirmation extended to me by my sisters and energized by the Chapter mandates we have unanimously adopted,” said Sr. Eckel who is serving a second four-year term as congregational minister.

The Chapter of Affairs unanimously reaffirmed the sisters’ four core values: conversion, minority, contemplation and poverty.