December 5, 2024|Local|

Finding respite during the holiday rush

The Francis Place Gift Shop

Visitors can browse and buy at the gift shop, which displays large selections of baptismal gifts, First Communion, Confirmation and items perfect for the Christmas season.

By Eileen Jevis

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The Franciscan Place Chapel at Destiny USA offers a place for rest and prayer

The Franciscan Place (TFP), located on the lower level of Destiny (next to DSW Shoes), welcomes thousands of guests, staff and visitors each year. “It offers a peaceful, prayerful presence in the largest Central New York marketplace,” said Brother Jim Moore, OFM Conv., director of the facility and a member of The Order of the Franciscan Friars Conventual that serves at Assumption Church.

Shoppers can get away from the hustle and bustle of life for some quiet time with the Lord at the chapel inside The Franciscan Place.

“Like St. Francis of Assisi who was an inspiration to both the friars and Franciscan sisters, we try to model his vision of reaching out and evangelizing in the marketplace,” Brother Jim said. “St. Francis of Assisi evangelized in many ways — preaching the Gospel in public and preaching to people he met while walking the paths of Assisi,” he said. “The Chapel in the Mall offers a place to spend a quiet moment to pray, reflect and take a break from our busy lives, especially during the holidays.”

Since January 1 of this year, 1,842 people have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and 2,045 have attended Mass, Moore reported. While many of the visitors are regulars and take advantage of the other sacraments offered, some find out about the chapel and gift shop through word of mouth or just walking by.

Ross Ridgeo has worked at The Franciscan Place for nine years. When he retired from his career, he was looking for something to do to keep busy. He said it’s one of the best jobs he’s ever had. “It’s a great place to work. We have a great team and everyone associated with the ministry is warm and welcoming,” he said. Ridgeo said he’s not surprised by the large numbers of people who visit the chapel. “I think more people are coming back to their faith. They feel a sense of calmness when they walk through the door.”

When visitors enter the gift shop, they will find a large selection of gifts for baptisms, First Communion and Confirmation as well as items perfect for the Christmas season. Ridgeo said customers appreciate the wide variety of unique items on display. “There are only a few Catholic shops in the area and shopping at Destiny is convenient for many,” he said.

In January, The Franciscan Place at Destiny Mall will commemorate 25 years of providing spiritual care for the faithful. Bishop Douglas Lucia will celebrate a Mass followed by a reception. The friars, Franciscan sisters and many of the faithful benefactors and friends will also be on hand to celebrate.

Visit the website at https://www.assumptionsyr.org/tfp for updated information and schedule changes.