News Center

Monday, November 21, 2016

Franciscan Health Shines Bright in History Center’s Festival of Trees

Sister Veronica Lopez, OSF, decorates the Franciscan Health tree at
 the  Indiana History Center. The center’s Festival of Trees features 
72 different trees on display throughout the building.
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan Health is bringing part of its rich past and seasonal spirit   to a special exhibit at the Indiana History Center’s Festival of Trees.

The hospital has one of 72 themed trees and it is decorated to represent the history and heritage of Franciscan Health and its storied service throughout Indiana. The 12-foot tree in the center’s Lilly Hall features ornaments depicting the San Damiano Cross and Nativity in homage to St. Francis of Assisi.

The tree also is decorated with framed photos of hospitals included in the Franciscan Health system and images of the Blessed Mother Theresia Bonzel, founder of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration.

As Indiana celebrates its bicentennial this year, each tree in the exhibit represents some aspect of the state’s history. The first Indiana hospital established by the Sisters opened in Lafayette in 1876.