Our 230 acre farm allows us to offer work, recreational and educational experiences. We offer opportunities for volunteers to help in a “hands on” way, but also help to transform the interior “land” within each person.

We work with individuals, corporate, church, school and professional groups who volunteer their assistance. In addition, we work with those desiring to develop skills, work out personal challenges, or meet requirements for community service hours.

Visitors to the Center have a variety of ways to experience the land of the Center’s Lowell Campus. From playing disc golf to praying the Rosary to strolling through the many gardens, visitors can enjoy the beauty of land and feel the presence of our Creator.

Visitors are welcome to stop by from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday or by appointment at other times. For more information, please contact the Center directly for more information 616-897-7842.

Trails

Based on the deer runs, our trail system uses the animals’ sense of movement through the land. The trails cover a wide range of habitats and ecosystems and can be hiked in 15–20 minutes. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and shoes. There is an all-terrain Trakchair available for those with impaired mobility. Call ahead to reserve the Trakchair.

See map of trails.

Summer Experiences

Our Summer Experiences for Children are fun, educational and always creative. Sign up early for these engaging programs! While the offerings change each year, popular activities have included nature crafts, pioneer days – life like the early settlers, and exploring summer bugs.
The Franciscan Life Process Center offers Nature experiences for children ages 8-12 led by Sister Mary Paul Moller, FSE at the Lowell Campus 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell, MI 49331.

Volunteer

The Franciscan Life Process Center provides a welcoming and supportive environment for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds to contribute their time and talents towards the mission of the Center. The Volunteer program at the Franciscan Life Process Center offers a wide range of opportunities for service. Participants can help with gardening and maintenance, experience the beauty of the seasons and meet new friends. These opportunities foster personal growth and offer a chance for individuals to develop new skills and make a difference in the lives of others. More information and signup>

Environmental Education Program

The Environmental Education Program is a unique opportunity for 5th grade students to experience outdoor classroom adventures. As well as incorporating the required curriculum expectations of the classroom, the teachers and students travel to our Center in Lowell for 3 weeks out of the academic year, one week each during fall, winter and spring. This seasonal schedule is designed to help incorporate educational concepts that are specific to the environment.

Learning is supported through written and visual material, as well as movement and hands-on activities; such as hiking, animal care, art creation, outdoor journaling, and much more. The students will have the combination of their teachers present, as well as the expertise of Sister Mary Paul Moller, FSE. Sister Mary Paul educates the students on the systems of the environment and how to be good stewards of the God’s creation, closely following the example of St. Francis Assisi. See examples of what the students will encounter each season, and how to enroll.

Land Activities

The Franciscan Life Process Center in Lowell, Michigan offers land activities that provide individuals with unique opportunities to connect with nature. From playing disc golf, to praying the rosary at the Rosary Walk, to strolling through the many gardens or exploring the trails, visitors can enjoy the beauty of land and feel the presence of our Creator. The land offers individuals a chance to disconnect from the fast-paced world and be refreshed by the serenity of nature.

Visitors are welcome to stop by from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday or by appointment at other times.

Working Farm

The Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist steward the land entrusted to them by operating a working farm. The farm includes an orchard, large vegetable garden, as well as conventional crop land leased to a local farmer. The Sisters care for and raise livestock including beef cattle, egg-laying chickens and goats. In addition, an apiary (a collection of beehives) is located on site to aid in pollination and produce honey.

Laudato Si’ Sanctuary

Spend time reflecting on the beauty of nature in our restored prairie sanctuary. Native flowers and seasonal birds inhabit the colorful fields dedicated to Mother Mary Ann Schmitz, FSE.

Eagle Scout Projects

Several young men have completed Eagle Scout projects including construction of benches, picnic table, chairs, bluebird houses, flower beds, raised flower beds, a disc golf course, fire pit, entrance signs, and a portable stage. Find out more>