The massive difference between a splinter and a plank suggests that the fault we complain of in others can be very small compared to the fault in ourselves that we refuse to see.
One charism that defines the spirituality of a Secular Franciscan is that of servant leadership. Our spirituality is based on journeying together as a community of love – a fraternity. To be a leader is to guide and animate the fraternity with hope and joy; to assume responsibility and hold authority, but not power; and to have a collegial relationship with those we serve, always inviting others to share their gifts, talents, and ideas. ...
As we celebrate the 800 th anniversary of Francis’ inspired writing of the Canticle of the Creatures, we want to involve YOU. We invite you to submit your own photos that illustrate the Canticle.
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Mercy, as Jesus presents it, is not optional but the hallmark of being a child of God.
We have heard the question, “Why a new Ritual?”, and it deserves an answer. The 1985 Ritual is out of print and has been for several years. We are often asked “Where do I get a copy of the Ritual?” Used copies found online were very expensive and the online version from CIOFS is not as comprehensive as the 1985 Ritual book. ...
In the biblical tradition, being “blessed” does not speak of a moral attitude to be adopted. Rather, in the tradition of our ancestors in the faith, the declaration of a person as “blessed” is in view of a coming action of God.
Our JPIC Award recipient for 2024 is Michele Dunne, OFS. Michele is minister of the Mount Saint Sepulchre Fraternity in the Margaret of Cortona Region. Since 2021, she has served as executive director of the Franciscan Action Network. What follows is a brief interview with Michele:
The purpose of hearing the Word is to be “caught” by it, to have it illumine the mind and inspire the will so that it changes one’s thinking and acting.
“When you serve and engage, you find meaning in your life. This helps you fill a hole in your life that only God can fill,” said Susan Junker, senior development officer for the St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVdP) in Phoenix, Arizona. ... In a concerted effort to address poverty and promote dignity, the Phoenix Diocese operates comprehensive programs that reflect the shared values that Franciscans will recognize. Under the auspices of the SVdP, 380 staff members and 16,000 volunteers run the operation that focuses on spirituality, community and service.
Let us be the light that announces that Divine Love is here, present in the temple of our hearts. In this way in the daily experience of living, we witness the Gospel and the Kingdom already present and active.