Eric Michaels-Creating Textures in Watercolor
2025-10-02 09:00 - 2025-10-03 16:00 (America/New_York) | Franciscan Life Process Center – Lowell Campus, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell, MI, 49331
October 2 & 3, 9 AM – 4 PM
Besides visual interest, texture can create contrast, establish depth and dimension and impart a sense of realism. Although watercolor is a wet medium, there are a number of ways to simulate tree bark, rocks, grass, sand and other landscape elements.
The cost of this workshop is $275.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eric-michaels-creating-textures-in-watercolor-tickets-951970899587?aff=oddtdtcreator

Richard Jordan-Capturing the Character of Trees en Plein Air
2025-10-02 09:00 - 2025-10-03 16:00
October 2 & 3, 9 AM – 4 PM
https://www.artistrichardjordan.com/
In this two day workshop, Richard Jordan, Director of the Plein Air Painters of West Michigan, will share his approach to painting trees and give practical lessons on how you can give them visual truth while keeping their poetic quality. Richard will give painting demonstrations, on both days, plus providing plenty of one-on-one guidance.
The cost of this workshop is $275.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/richard-jordan-capturing-the-character-of-trees-en-plein-air-tickets-971142311797?aff=oddtdtcreator

11th Annual Franciscan Rhythms Trail Run
2025-10-04 09:00
The 11th annual Franciscan Rhythms 5K Trail Run & Walk benefiting our music therapy program and land restoration efforts will take place Saturday, Oct. 4.
The all-ages and all-fitness-levels 5K will give participants an opportunity to “Run with Nuns” and experience a variety of restorative projects on a scenic path through our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE.
As race participants enjoy the course, they will be surrounded by deciduous woodland, pine forest and a restored prairie that contains all native plants. Visitors have spotted many beautiful birds, insects and woodland animals on the land – even an adventurous beaver!
A variety of live music stations featuring Irish, rock and folk music will be spread out along the trail route to motivate and inspire participants.
Visit our RunSignUp page for more information and to register for the race, sign up to volunteer or donate.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Fill out our sponsorship packet and email it to skoteskey@lifeprocesscenter.org.
Please view the course map here.

Barbara Schilling-4 Weeks to Building Stronger Paintings
2025-10-06 13:00 - 17:00
October 6, 13, 20 and 27, 1PM – 5PM

In this workshop I will cover 4 important elements of improving and elevating your work. There will be in-depth review of color (value/temperature/opacity/neutrality), discussion on pros and cons of working from life versus from photographs and more.

The cost of this workshop is $275.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barbara-schilling-4-weeks-to-building-stronger-paintings-tickets-970974911097?aff=oddtdtcreator

Stan Kurth-Acrylic and Collage on Canvas or Paper 3-day Workshop
2025-10-07 09:00 - 2025-10-09 16:00
October 7 – 9, 9 AM – 4 PM
Participants in this workshop will create acrylic and collage paintings on canvas, board, or paper starting with no preconceived notions or outcome. Process will dictate direction as students use a variety of acrylic and collage techniques to implement elements and principles of design.
The cost of this workshop is $525.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stan-kurth-acrylic-and-collage-on-canvas-or-paper-3-day-workshop-tickets-810156779737?aff=oddtdtcreator

M. Joy Lemon-Florals in Charcoal & Chalk-Part I
2025-10-30 09:00 - 2025-10-31 16:00
October 30 & 31, 9 AM – 4 PM
I will share my block-in drawing technique and transfer method. You’ll discover how to prepare materials, transfer compositions with precision, and sculpt shadow shapes accurately. Then together, we’ll dive into the transformative process of shading, from deep shadows to radiant highlights, infusing your botanical drawings with drama and luminosity.
The cost of this workshop is $275.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/m-joy-lemon-florals-in-charcoal-chalk-part-i-tickets-1001395319357?aff=oddtdtcreator

M. Joy Lemon-Florals in Charcoal & Chalk-Part II
2025-11-10 09:00 - 2025-11-11 16:00
November 10 & 11, 9 AM – 4 PM
This workshop is as continuation of the October 30 & 31st workshop. Explore the art of rendering dramatic florals in charcoal and chalk, capturing the graceful sweep and curl of petals, the captivating interplay of light and shadow, and the rich depth of a nuanced value range.
The cost of this workshop is $275.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/m-joy-lemon-florals-in-charcoal-chalk-part-ii-tickets-1353544842059?aff=oddtdtcreator

La Cucina di Suor Gabriella - Italian Cooking Classes
2025-11-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-18 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-25 19:00 - 21:00
La Cucina di Suor Gabriella – Sister’s Kitchen
Learn how to bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen by enrolling in La Cucina di Suor Gabriella, our Italian Cooking Classes. The classes will run 7-9 p.m. on Tuesdays Nov. 11-25 at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE. Executive Director Sister Gabriella Pettirossi, FSE, born and raised in Assisi, Italy, will teach and share her secrets to making authentic Italian cuisine.
Participants can sign up for one, a few or all the classes. Each class can have up to eight participants and costs $75 per person. Sign up online or by calling 616.897.7842.
Class Schedule

Nov. 11 – CLASS IS FULL Primi Piatti: Fresh pasta dishes with homemade pasta.
Nov. 18 – CLASS IS FULL Piatti Forti: Traditional Italian meat entrées.
Nov. 25 – CLASS IS FULL Pasticceria: Classic Italian desserts.

Homemade Sweet Bread Sale - Nov 14-15
2025-11-14 09:00 - 2025-11-15 12:00
Indulge in cinnamon rolls, orange rolls and pecan pull-apart bread made by the sisters this weekend.
These first-come, first-served treats will be available for purchase at the Center in Lowell, 11650 Downes St. NE:

Friday, Nov. 14 – 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 15 – 9 a.m.-noon

Each package of treats will cost $20. The cinnamon rolls and orange rolls will have around 8-10 rolls per package. Cash and credit cards accepted.
All purchases will benefit our counseling, music therapy, land experiences and other programs.

Breads from the Franciscan traditions: Christmas Edition-CLASS IS FULL
2025-12-06 09:00 - 12:00
The Christmas season is around the corner, and soon you’ll be planning your holiday meals. Add a special touch to your Christmas celebration by learning how to make Christmas cinnamon rolls and sweet orange pull apart bread, in honor of the feast of St. Nicholas.
The class is 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 6 at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE. The breadmaking class can have up to 10 participants and costs $100 per person. Sign up online or by calling 616.897.7842.
Instructor
Sister Mary Paul Moller will be teaching the class. She will bring her years of baking experience to help each participant master these festive treats.

Beginner adult art classes
2026-01-05 18:00 - 21:00
So you want to be an artist!
Start your artistic journey with our beginner art classes, made for adults who want to build a strong creative foundation. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or rediscovering a hobby, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to create beautiful drawings and paintings in this series, which begins in January and ends in March.

Taught by Center Art Director Kathy Bechtel, students will progress through three sessions: drawing, color theory and painting. Each course offers hands-on instruction in an intimate 10-person class. All classes are held at the Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE in Lowell.
Sign up for the beginner adult art classes online.
Please view the supplies list here.

________
Session 1 – Drawing

Students select either Mondays or Thursdays:
Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Jan. 5-Feb. 2
Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Jan. 8-Feb.5

This five-week course will start with lessons in drawing basic objects and shapes and exploring how light and shadows affect each shape from different perspectives. In the following weeks, students will apply these skills to create still lifes, landscapes and portraits. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of this session is $200 per person.

Please note: Session 1 is required as a prerequisite for Session 2.

________

Session 2 – Color theory

Select Mondays or Thursdays:
Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 9 and 16
Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Feb. 12 and 19

In this two-week course, students will discover how colors interact and learn to create primary, secondary and tertiary colors using acrylic paint. Participants will learn how to mix and manipulate colors to build harmonious palettes and gain a stronger understanding of the color wheel. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of this session is $80 per person.

Please note:

Students must attend Session 1 in order to join Session 2.
If a student would like to skip Session 1 and progress to Session 2, please contact Art Director Kathy Bechtel at kbechtel@lifeprocesscenter.org.

________

Session 3 – Painting
Select Mondays or Thursdays:
Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 23-March 16
Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Feb. 26-March 19
In this four-week course, students will bring together the skills learned in Sessions 1 and 2 to create a complete acrylic painting. Lessons will include composition, edges, mood and dramatic lighting, helping participants create depth and enhance their paintings. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of Session 3 is $160 per person.

Students who sign up for all three sessions will receive $40 off, making the whole 11-week series $400 per person.

Beginner Adult Spanish Course
2026-01-07 18:00 - 20:00
Join other adult learners this winter for a beginner-friendly Spanish course focused on developing conversational skills. The 12-week program runs Jan. 7-March 25 on Wednesdays 6-8 p.m. at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE.

This welcoming course is designed for individuals with no prior knowledge of Spanish and focuses on developing everyday conversation skills and building confidence. Students will build their vocabulary and learn how to conjugate verbs and develop sentence structure. Basic prayers like the Hail Mary and Our Father will also be taught.

This program costs $300 per person. A workbook will be provided at the first session. To sign up and learn more, email sdebyle@lifeprocesscenter.org or call 616.897.7842.

Please note: This course is not eligible for college credits.

Course instructor

Experienced educator James Albert is a retired teacher with decades of teaching experience in the Michigan Department of Education and more than 15 years teaching Spanish at St. Patrick School. He also instructs the English as a Second Language program through the Belding Area Schools Adult Education program. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and spent three summers studying at the University of Costa Rica.

Beginner adult art classes - Session 1 - Drawing - Thursdays
2026-01-08 09:00 - 12:00
Session 1 – Drawing

Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Jan. 8-Feb.5

This five-week course will start with lessons in drawing basic objects and shapes and exploring how light and shadows affect each shape from different perspectives. In the following weeks, students will apply these skills to create still lifes, landscapes and portraits. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of this session is $200 per person.

Please note: Session 1 is required as a prerequisite for Session 2.

Paint and Sip
2026-02-07 13:00 - 16:00
Participate in a cozy Paint and Sip perfect for friends, couples or a solo afternoon escape from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. Experienced artist and Center Art Director Kathy Bechtel will teach students how to paint a beautiful flower arrangement on a 14 inch by 11-inch canvas. All skill levels are welcome.

The cost is $50 per person and includes all painting supplies and non-alcoholic drinks, including coffee, tea and cider, with light snacks.

The class is held at the newly renovated Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE in Lowell. An easy drive from Grand Rapids and Lansing, our Lowell campus offers a beautiful and calming environment perfect for unplugging from city life.

Register online at http://weblink.donorperfect.com/paintsip.

Looking to enhance your artistic abilities? View and enroll in our upcoming professional art workshops.

Beginner adult art classes - Session 2 - Color Theory- Mondays
2026-02-09 18:00 - 21:00
Session 2 – Color theory

Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 9 and 16

In this two-week course, students will discover how colors interact and learn to create primary, secondary and tertiary colors using acrylic paint. Participants will learn how to mix and manipulate colors to build harmonious palettes and gain a stronger understanding of the color wheel. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of this session is $80 per person.

Please note:

Students must attend Session 1 in order to join Session 2.
If a student would like to skip Session 1 and progress to Session 2, please contact Art Director Kathy Bechtel at kbechtel@lifeprocesscenter.org.

Beginner adult art classes - Session 2 - Color Theory - Thursdays
2026-02-09 18:00 - 21:00
Session 2 – Color theory

Thursdays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 9 and 16

In this two-week course, students will discover how colors interact and learn to create primary, secondary and tertiary colors using acrylic paint. Participants will learn how to mix and manipulate colors to build harmonious palettes and gain a stronger understanding of the color wheel. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of this session is $80 per person.

Please note:

Students must attend Session 1 in order to join Session 2.
If a student would like to skip Session 1 and progress to Session 2, please contact Art Director Kathy Bechtel at kbechtel@lifeprocesscenter.org.

La Cucina di Suor Gabriella – Italian Cooking Class
2026-02-10 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-03-10 19:00 - 21:00
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy! Join us for La Cucina di Suor Gabriella, a warm and welcoming Italian cooking class designed for home cooks of all skill levels. Each month, you’ll explore classic Italian dishes, essential techniques, and the rich culinary traditions that make Italian cuisine so loved around the world.
Classes meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 7–9 p.m. at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE. Come ready to learn, taste, and enjoy the art of Italian cooking—buon appetito!
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 – Piatti Forti (Meat Entree)
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 – Pasticceria (Dessert)
Register online at: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/ItalianCooking

Beginner adult art classes - Session 3 - Painting - Mondays
2026-02-23 18:00 - 21:00
Session 3 – Painting
Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 23-March 16
In this four-week course, students will bring together the skills learned in Sessions 1 and 2 to create a complete acrylic painting. Lessons will include composition, edges, mood and dramatic lighting, helping participants create depth and enhance their paintings. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of Session 3 is $160 per person.

Cooking Around the World – A Global Foodie Adventure
2026-02-24 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-03-03 19:00 - 21:00
Embark on a delicious journey across continents! Cooking Around the World is a hands-on cooking class where you’ll explore bold flavors, unique ingredients, and traditional techniques from a variety of global cuisines. From the rich, aromatic spices of India to the vibrant dishes of the Philippines, the bold and comforting tastes of Hispanic cooking, and the delicate artistry behind classic French pastries—each session brings a new culture and cuisine to your table.
This intimate class accommodates up to 8 participants and is priced at $75.00 per person. For questions, call 616.897.7842.
Classes are held on the 1st and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7–9 p.m. at our Lowell campus, located at 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell.
Register online: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/aroundworld

Walking with Saint Francis Through Lent
2026-02-25 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-03-04 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-03-11 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:30
In this Lenten series, we will consider ten events in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi that were turning points, or “steps of conversion,” as he followed Christ more and more closely throughout his life. In addition, we will see how these steps can apply to our own lives and take time for prayer and reflection to consider how they can help us follow Christ more closely throughout Lent.
Come and learn more about the life of Saint Francis, and how his journey of conversion can inspire and deepen our own walk with Christ.
Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30pm
February 25
March 4
March 11
March 18
March 25
Register here

Beginner adult art classes - Session 3 - Painting - Thursdays
2026-02-26 09:00 - 12:00
Session 3 – Painting
Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Feb. 26-March 19
In this four-week course, students will bring together the skills learned in Sessions 1 and 2 to create a complete acrylic painting. Lessons will include composition, edges, mood and dramatic lighting, helping participants create depth and enhance their paintings. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of Session 3 is $160 per person.

Baking with the Sister Mary Paul
2026-02-28 09:00 - 12:00
Breads from the Franciscan Traditions
Step into the rich heritage of Franciscan baking! Breads from the Franciscan Traditions invites you to tie on your apron, fire up the oven, and learn the time‑honored art of homemade bread. In this hands-on class, you’ll discover techniques, tips, and secrets passed down through generations, all while creating delicious loaves rooted in history and hospitality.
Classes are held on the last Saturday of each month, from 9 a.m.–noon, at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE.
This breadmaking experience accommodates up to 10 participants and is $100 per person. For questions, please call 616.897.7842.
Instructors & Featured Breads

Sister Mary Paul Moller (2/28)
Pumpernickel & Herbed “Music” Bread
Sister Gabriella Pettirossi (3/28)
Focaccia & Breadsticks
Sister Carmina Rose Muscat (4/25)
Jalapeño Cheddar Rolls & Challah
Sister Christianna Hamman (5/30)
Flatbread & Multigrain Bread

Join us for a flavorful, fragrant morning of baking—where tradition rises, and every loaf tells a story.
Register online: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/Breads

The Heart of Prayer
2026-03-14 09:30 - 15:00
Join us for a day of reflection and renewal as we explore the depth and beauty of prayer in our relationship with God. Prayer is our way of coming to know God and to love Him. It is a simple opening of the mind and heart to God. How do I do this? That is the goal of this retreat.
Click here to register
