The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Good Shepherd Sunday – 4th Sunday of Easter – Fr. Christopher
The abundant life is a matter of the heart. The heart is the sheepfold of abundance. And must be guarded.
God’s Joy Makes Us Evangelizers
Patrick Mendes, former U.S. National Minister of the OFS (2006-2009), said in an interview, “It is not what we do but what we bring to what we do. What we bring is our charism - our charism of our peace and joy and love for God’s creation.” The next question then becomes, “How can I bring this to others? I’m shy. I can’t speak in a group. I’m not educated in apologetics. I’m just a layperson!”
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – The Road to Anywhere and Everywhere – Fr. Christopher
And so, Jesus fed the disciples not just with bread, but with Himself: His body, His life, His love, His compassion and strength, His forgiveness and hope, His holy and life-giving spirit.
Faith and Action: Transcendent or Immanent?
Anyone who has spent time with varied Franciscan fraternities knows that there are different ways of living the faith and putting it into action. On the one hand, some emphasize a strong sense of liturgy and worship, morality, virtue, and doctrine. ... On the other hand, there are those whose focus is in this world. ...
A Jubilee Invitation: Reflecting on “Sister Death—Gate of Life”
The Franciscan University of Steubenville will host an academic conference in honor of the Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi. Secular Franciscans are invited to attend.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Divine Mercy Sunday – Fr. Christopher
. In the presence of the Risen Lord in person, Thomas steps forward and makes a most exalted act of faith contained in the Gospel: “My Lord and my God.”
Accessibility Committee Update
On November 3, 2025, Sister Bodily Death came unexpectedly for our brother, Michael Freeman. Michael served on the OFS Accessibility Committee since its inception. He faithfully served his fraternity in the Joan of Arc region, and was active in serving his region, including as the JPIC animator for several years. Michael was a devoted husband and father and worked as a special education teacher. ... On October 8, 2025, the Accessibility Committee hosted its first national webinar focusing on why creating access for individuals who are deaf or who live with a range of disabilities is so important for every Secular Franciscan fraternity and region.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Easter Sunday – Fr. Christopher
Christ is Risen, Alleluia! He is truly Risen, Alleluia!
God’s Mercy Revealed – OFS Rule Article 7
God in his infinite mercy, understands that we will fall short, we will sin - but he does not leave us in that sin. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we can be restored to love and friendship with God and receive the grace to mend our relationships with each other.
Gospel to Life; Life to Gospel: A Challenge for Young People
“Today’s young adults represent the most culturally diverse generation ever seen in the United States,” according to the Bishops in Connecting Young Adults to Catholic Parishes. ... Add this to the many cultural, economic and geographical differences present in our country and we find a beautiful but challenging diversity. One commonality, though, is that young people who have chosen a life of faith have a deep desire to connect that faith with everyday life.