Sr. Frances Acton is a 2025 Jubilarian, celebrating an incredible 70 years of faithful service as a Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Throughout her life, Sr. Fran has been a beacon of love, education, and compassion.
She dedicated many years to shaping young minds as a teacher in grade schools throughout the Philadelphia and Pottstown areas, later sharing her wisdom with students at Little Flower High School in Philadelphia for seven years. But her heart called her beyond the classroom.
In 1991, Sr. Fran answered a deeper call to serve those on the margins, bringing hope and faith to rural communities in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky. As a director of religious education and pastoral associate, she became a living testament to God’s love, especially in regions where Catholic presence was scarce.
A 2002 Good News article highlighted her ministry, recognizing the struggles of these communities, where poverty and lack of education often led to misunderstanding—even prejudice—toward the Catholic faith. But Sr. Fran, alongside her fellow Sisters of St. Francis, met these challenges with open hearts and unwavering dedication. They made themselves known, not just within the walls of the church, but in everyday life—serving on boards, advocating for interfaith unity, and becoming an active presence in the community. Whether attending basketball games, music recitals, festivals, or school fundraisers, Sr. Fran was a light of kindness and acceptance.
At a time when these rural Bluegrass parishes longed to see and feel God’s presence, Sr. Frances Acton answered that call. Through her tireless service, she reminded all she met that God’s love knows no boundaries, and her legacy of faith continues to inspire.
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