Now Available! – Revised Handbook for Spiritual Assistance to the Secular Franciscan Order
Available on June 7th - Print version for sale on the Gospel to Life Bookstore. Also available for download from the National Website CNSA page.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Corpus Christi – Fr. Christopher
True sharing in the prayer and the celebration of the Eucharist means that I listen, receive, and the door opens up within me, through which Christ may enter, and that I may begin to enter into Him.
Opposing Indifference: Actions of Accompaniment in the Year of St Francis
In this jubilee year of our founder, the great peacemaker and reconciler, it is fitting that we have called the membership to work visibly for justice and mercy for immigrants
Mary, Our Model and Our Mother – OFS Rule Article 9
When I reflect on Article 9, several Gospel passages come to mind. One is found in the Gospel of Luke, when Mary responds to the angel's message: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). Mary's response is a perfect example of trust and surrender to God's will.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Trinity Sunday – Fr. Christopher
“Eternal Trinity, You are like a deep sea, in which the more I seek, the more I find; and the more I find, the more I seek You.” St Catherine of Siena
2026: A Year to Begin Again with Francis of Assisi
This year the Church marks the 800th anniversary of the transitus, the passing into eternal life of Francis of Assisi. In honor of this moment, Pope Leo XIV has named 2026 the Year of St. Francis. For Secular Franciscans, this is more than remembering the past. It is an invitation: a year to begin again.
Building Franciscan Community in the Digital Age
The Franciscan Federation will launch the Piazza, a new online community designed to foster connection, collaboration, and charism across the Franciscan world, on June 16.
The Gospel Through a Franciscan Lens – Pentecost – Fr. Christopher
The Spirit does not erase differences. The Spirit speaks through difference. Pentecost is not uniformity but aids us in understanding.
REFLECTIONS ON FIFTEEN YEARS: Grateful for the Opportunity to Serve the OFS
My Franciscan vocation began with the Seculars, so when the opportunity came for me to serve as a provincial delegate in 2011, I was happy to volunteer. I was in my second assignment after ordination – middle-aged as a person, but young as a friar. This service has been an incredible opportunity for me to grow and exercise our Franciscan charism. At several points, I have been grateful for those who have walked with me in leadership. My connections grew with their support, leading eventually to the positions I have now as OFS Animator for my province and National Spiritual Assistant.
Grain of Wheat
Over the last three years I’ve been focusing on death. In 2024, my father was called home. In 2025, my mother was called home. In 2026, we remember the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. Both my parents lived 93 years. St. Francis lived about 45 years. An opportunity to focus on death is truly an opportunity to focus on life.