Welcome! We are the Sisters of St. Francis: Oldenburg, Indiana

Programs & Opportunities

Adults planing seedlings by hand. Volunteer Program
We depend on the support of many volunteers and community members to achieve our mission. Volunteers at Michaela Farm help us in many ways. No matter what your age, ability or skill level, we have a place for you. We welcome you to join us by volunteering your time, energy, ideas and spirit.

Volunteer Work Days: Organized work days are scheduled for one Saturday of every month, April through October, from 9:00-3:00. The hands of many can accomplish much more than any one of us. It is a great way to get to know the farm and meet others. Please bring your lunch. Water will be provided.

Volunteering at Michaela Farm Volunteer in Residence: We welcome volunteers to live and work with us for a period of a few days up to two weeks, with extensions negotiable. Volunteers are asked to work a minimum of five hours per day in exchange for lodging. Meals and other expenses are the responsibility of the volunteer, although we will share the abundance of produce when available.

Individualized Volunteer Experience: We welcome volunteers with a commitment to service who also have other obligations during the growing season. If you are only available to volunteer on your day off or on a weekday morning or afternoon please contact us about setting up an individualized volunteer schedule.

Individual or Group Service Project: Whether you are a high school or college student, eagle scout, or preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation you can fulfill your service requirements with us. Large groups and or individuals looking to learn about farming or gardening and willing to get your hands dirty are welcome. Advanced scheduling is appreciated.

Opportunities for Spiritual Growth
Spiritual renewal is just as important at Michaela Farm as natural farming practices, production, and ecological education. You can come for a private retreat using our rental facility. You may also want to spend a few hours on the land walking the labyrinth, herb garden, or the trails. Benches are situated in a few optimal places on the grounds to enhance a state of BEING. Whenever you plan to come we appreciate notification. For safety purposes we need to know who is on the land.

Labyrinth at Michaela Farm Labyrinth: A labyrinth is a single, winding, unobstructed path for assisting in mental focus that has been used by many cultures and religions throughout history. The holistic function of a labyrinth is to further those who are on the path to more balanced spiritual, emotional, physical, and psychological well being.

Herb Garden: This beautiful site contains aromatic and culinary herbs as well as annual and perennial flowers. The garden it laid out in an Old English model which surrounds St. Fiacre, patron of gardeners. This tends to be the favorite spot for people to visit, sit, and admire the beautiful flowers.

Contemplation Woods: The woods have been designed with walking paths where visitors can enjoy the vistas of the farm and the village spires.

Tours
The farm staff has hosted tours for grade schools, high schools, colleges, parishes, Red Hat Ladies, bikers, bicyclists, antique car enthusiasts, and family groups. Large and small groups come to enjoy visiting the barn, herb garden, and grounds, and the staff welcomes you and your group! Advanced scheduling is appreciated.

Guided Tours: Guided tours may be scheduled with a staff person for a fee of $3.00 per person per hour (which is negotiable for groups). If your group has specific interests (i.e. horticulture, history, etc.) we can make the tour fit your needs.

Self Guided Tours: If you have been to the farm for a tour or orientation you may pick up a self guided tour map in the lower barn and do some of your own exploring. Remember to honor the private residences. We appreciate notification of your plans to visit. For safety purposes we need to know who is on the land.