St Francis has inspired me since I was a little girl and read a biography of his life. My friend, Deacon Bob Campbell invited me to come to Franciscans Living in Community (FLIC), originally Secular Experience of Living Franciscanism (SELF). I was the only non- professed person there!! ... I feel like Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation chose me!! I always respond to the cry of the poor with prayer and action. ...
For the day away during the National Chapter event, the Divine Mercy Region hosts treated fraternity members to a bus tour of the City of Detroit. We experienced the Solanus Casey Center, including the celebration of Mass at the St. Bonaventure Chapel connected to the center. On the way, we crossed Detroit’s Gateway Bridge. This bridge was built in preparation for the 2007 Super Bowl XL, which was evident by the designers incorporating football-like ovals in its structure. ...
Motivated to be a servant leader because. . . “I never dreamed that I would one day be National Minister. My journey as a member was strengthened with each position - whether elected or appointed. ...
Have you heard the adage: “If everything is a priority, then nothing is a priority?” Of course, we don’t profess to live one article of the Rule at a time. But like the liturgical seasons, or the feast days, it does help to focus on one facet to deepen our understanding of it. We focus on one aspect while still applying the other aspects of our faith and Rule each day. ...
(These articles originally appeared in the Fall 2022 TAU-USA Issue #107)
By Jan Parker, OFS
Trusting in the Father, Christ chose for himself and his mother […]
Reflecting recently on our years as a FY/YA commission, I wondered whether we had succeeded in addressing the initial theme we had chosen to help us move in an appropriate direction —to “Unite, Ignite, and Invite.” (TAU USA, Spring, 2018, Issue #94) We talked and listened to attendees at the Quinquennial, both during our presentations and at our booth. The enthusiasm proved encouraging and affirmed that our commitment since the beginning has led us to a stronger YouFra awareness and presence. ...
When Francis of Assisi started calling himself “Brother Francis,” he wasn’t just picking a title. He was expressing the relationship he wanted to have with the world. In his youth, Francis would never have thought of lepers as “neighbors,” let alone brothers and sisters. ...
The Q was like looking through a telescope and seeing a galaxy of Secular Franciscans. Some were older and limited physically, some were middle aged with an energetic acute interest, and all seemed driven by a love for the principles of St. Francis. ...
Continuing with the spirited theme of the Quinquennial, "JUBILEE! Rejoice in the Choice!,” five Secular Franciscans concluded the keynotes with a call to live our vocation. Speaking in the final keynote were Doug and Marion Clorey, OFS, of Prince Edward Island, Canada, and Tim and Kathy Taormina, OFS, and Lori Hinker, OFS, of Apple Valley, Minn. ...
To alleviate what Pope Francis labeled a “globalization of indifference,” Fr. David B. Couturier, OFM Cap., called upon Secular Franciscans to build a more fraternal world in the opening keynote at the Quinquennial. “In all that you do, you must develop the bonds and connections of being a brother and sister to everyone in the world,” he said. He called upon Franciscans to make a difference in the lives of the poor and vulnerable. ... Pilgrim. Poor. Brother. Simplicity. Joyfulness. Enthusiasm. Humility. Authenticity. “I bet you could add several more to the list,” said Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv. These traits reflect St. Francis of Assisi, as well as the actions of Pope Francis. ...