(This article originally appeared in the TAU-USA Fall 2025  Issue #117)

By Mary Frances Charsky, OFS  • International Councilor

Among the many treasures of our Franciscan heritage, few words echo more deeply than the closing line of the Peace Prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi: “It is in giving that we receive.” These words are not merely poetic; they are a spiritual truth lived out in the quiet generosity of countless souls who embody Gospel love. Today, we reflect on one such soul: Christine Gmeiner, whose final act of giving has blessed the National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order in the United States in a profound and humbling way.

Christine’s bequest came without fanfare, without stipulation, and without expectation. Her estate offered a generous gift to the National Fraternity with no strings attached, no instructions, and no conditions. It was a pure offering, given in the spirit of trust and love. In receiving it, we are reminded that the most powerful gifts are often those that flow freely from the heart, echoing the selfless love of Christ.

This act of generosity invites us to pause and consider the deeper meaning of giving. In our Franciscan way of life, giving is not transactional, it is transformational. When we offer kindness, compassion, and resources to others without seeking recognition or reward we open ourselves to the grace of spiritual fulfillment. We receive not material compensation but something far greater: inner peace, joy, and a deeper connection with God’s love.

Christine’s gift is more than a financial blessing; it is a spiritual invitation. It calls us to reflect on how we, as brothers and sisters in the Secular Franciscan Order, might embody the same spirit of generosity. How might we use this gift to further the mission of our Order? How might we honor Christine’s legacy by becoming instruments of peace, channels of love, and bearers of hope?

The absence of specific instructions with this bequest invites us to listen to the Holy Spirit, to one another, and to the needs of our communities. Whether we use it to support vocations, outreach, youth, or the strengthening of fraternal bonds, may every decision be rooted in prayer and guidance by the values we hold dear.

Let us receive Christine’s gift with gratitude and reverence. Let it inspire us to give more freely, to love more deeply, and to serve more joyfully. Let us honor her memory not only with words, but with action. May her gift bear fruit in the lives of many, and may we too, be inspired to give without counting the cost, trusting that in giving, we truly receive.

For those who feel moved to continue a legacy of generosity, donations to support the work of the OFS in the United States are warmly welcome.

To learn more or to make a contribution or bequest in support of the Secular Franciscan Order for a Local, Regional, National or International Fraternity please contact:

Secular Franciscan Order-USA5000 Colerain AveCincinnati, Ohio 45223-1213

Email: info@secularfranciscansusa.org Website: www.secularfranciscansusa.org

1-800-FRANCIS

Let us continue to give with open hearts, trusting that in every act of love, we receive the grace of God. Let us pray for Christine and for the Gmeiner Bequest Task Force established in her honor. May Christine rest eternally in peace.