Congregation transfers its healthcare system. Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls list critical factors for a successful transfer of sponsorship.

In 1993 the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, MN, transferred ownership and sponsorship of their 12 healthcare facilities to Catholic Health Corporation of Omaha. The sisters had had two goals from the start of the process: To transfer the facilities to another Catholic system, and in such a way that both members of the religious institute and the facilities' personnel would "own" the decision To complete the transfer with minimal upheaval in facility operations The sisters accomplished both of these goals. They attribute their success to prayer and several critical factors. First, having pondered their healthcare ministry in light of their Franciscan tradition, the sisters decided that a larger system could better meet their facilities' needs. Second, they developed a set of criteria for the new sponsor, including the requirement that it be both Catholic and dedicated to rural healthcare. Third, the sisters became willing to take the risks a transfer involved for both their congregation and the 12 facilities. Fourth, the sisters clearly communicated their decision to everyone affected by it. Fifth, they sought the help of experts in making the transfer. Sixth, they worked hard to create trust, so that all involved--including those who would lose their jobs--took ownership of the transfer decision. After completion of the transfer, each of the facilities held a ritual celebrating the friendships and respect built over the long years the Franciscan Sisters were their sponsors. The sisters held their own ritual of commemoration. They continue their ministries in health, education, social services, and pastoral care.