I’m writing this article in the wake of another school shooting, this time in Wisconsin. On the morning after, I heard one young woman outside of Mass say to her mom, “I thought we were supposed to ‘Do what’s right and just.’” Her mom simply put an arm around her shoulders and continued walking to their car. I didn’t hear her response, but said a quick prayer that the mother would know what words would comfort her daughter and give her hope.
We can probably agree that “the Church’s best kept secret” is not the most desirable nickname for the Secular Franciscan Order. As a regional vice minister, I was asked to initiate a “vocations ministry” a few years ago. This resulted in a handbook which referenced the national Vocations Toolkit along with best practices from around St. Elizabeth of Hungary region.
“We once had a spiritual assistant who said it’s all about the personal invitation – holding the door open and inviting people in,” said Ellen Ferrone, OFS, minister of the Brothers and Sisters of St. Francis Region. “He stressed guiding them to a place where their spirit might grow,” said Ellen.
Alexander Pope wrote, "Hope springs eternal in the human breast.” People, especially Franciscans, always hold on to hope, even in difficult times. It is part of human nature and a virtue. These lovely words speak the truth that it is God who plants hope in the human heart. ...
A Jubilee Year is a particular year in the life of the Church to encourage the faithful to deepen their spiritual life, repenting their sins, and forgiving the sins of others—the full expression of the mercy of God. In a letter announcing the Jubilee Year of Hope, Pope Francis stated, “As pilgrims of hope, we must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision.” ...
It’s the beginning of 2025, and we are in the Jubilee Year of Hope. “Pilgrims of hope” is the theme. We are people of hope – never despairing. That is great news, and it is worth sharing. ... Over the years, we have come to learn that the seeds we plant do not sprout immediately. We may not see results until months down the road, however we must sow seeds now to reap a harvest later. ...
21st Q 29 July-02 August, Lexington, KY Keynote Speakers are Bro. Bill Short, OFM, Darlene Pryds, PhD, and Fr. Wayne Hellmann, OFM Conv.
In TAU-USA issue #113, five of the 30 Regions are highlighted. La Verna region, Our Lady of the Angels Region, Tau Cross Region, Our Lady of Guadalupe – Empress of the Americas Region, Santa Maria de las Montanas Region (Saint Mary of the Mountains Region)
(This article originally appeared in the TAU-USA Fall 2024 Issue #113)
Assembled by Bret Thoman, OFS
Major Life, Bonaventure (1240)
He certainly wanted to conform in everything to Christ crucified, who poor and suffering and naked remained hanging on the cross.
Legend of the […]
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. ...