The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Fr. Christopher
“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.
Why a new Ritual? From the National Executive Council
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. ...
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Fr. Christopher
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.
Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Award, 2024
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 Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Fr. Christopher
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.
Chapter Day Away – St. Vincent de Paul Facility of Phoenix
“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.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – The Presentation of the Lord – Fr. Christopher
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.
Homilies at Chapter 2024
Fr. Marek’s homily at the opening Mass on the Feast of the Stigmata emphasized that true discipleship requires us to listen for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. He reflected on the suffering of the stigmata or suffering as a transformative experience—"the kiss of Jesus"—that can lead to profound change if we invite God into our darkest moments.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Fr. Christopher
When one has a longing so great that it surpasses human nature and eager desire, and are able to accomplish things beyond human thought, it is the Bridegroom who has smitten them with this longing.
OFM Province Connects with OFS and Others at Synod
Representatives from the Franciscan Family and Franciscan-hearted individuals who work with the friars attended the Synod of the Franciscan Friars Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe from Jan 13-17 in Kansas City, MO.