A Pentecost Message from the Minister General
In a time when we often feel that we are weak, it is very much encouraging that the Holy Spirit wants to fill us with power.
A FRANCISCAN CULTURE OF CARE
Pope Francis tells us that we are all called to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers – not just when it is convenient or safe; but whenever there is a need. Where there is a need, there is a Franciscan.
Formation Commission – TAU-USA Issue # 102
What exactly is a chapter? What is involved when we call the membership to gather for a religious chapter? You might think this is an unusual topic for a formation article, and you would be correct. It is an unusual topic. However, I believe one of the objectives of formation is to help us understand why we do what we do. As agents of formation, we assist by feeding the mind as well as the soul of a person.
Our Life in Christ and Our Public Life
I don’t remember hearing about abortion until it was brought up for discussion in my high school English class. Abortion remains a hot topic after all these years, in spite of several commentators claiming decades ago that other issues would squeeze it out, but it still gets modest attention in many elections
Local Fraternity is the Heart of the Order
In her presentation titled “Fraternity: Our Way of Life,” Menditto elaborated on five key elements to living in communion with one another — collaboration, community, communication, commitment, and conversion.
National Spiritual Assistants Focus on Impact of Pandemic
Not surprisingly, the Conference of National Spiritual Assistants, understanding the impact that the pandemic has had on the brothers and sisters, took the opportunity to address the issues of this new reality.
NATIONAL MINISTER ADDRESSES STATE OF THE ORDER
“You cannot quarantine the Holy Spirit” she said. “In spite of the pandemic and all the upheaval, the work of prayer, peacemaking and building up of the Kingdom has continued in a thousand beautiful ways... We are moving forward in new ways, responding in faith to the signs of the times.”
‘Where there is a need, there is a Franciscan’
Monica Olivera, OFS, is the 2020 recipient of the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Award.Olivera founded First Nations Outreach that serves remote Native American communities.
Chapter Becomes Historic First in OFS History
As the National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order in the United State planned for the 2020 National Chapter, they accepted the fact that COVID pandemic would require a measure of flexibility and creativity, an understanding of the new technology… and the ability to imagine the possibilities.
A Franciscan Approach to Today’s Times
Father Christopher called on chapter participants to “see the disruptions” as “an opportunity to be alone with Jesus and go deeper and deeper.” Approach these unsettling times with a Franciscan heart, he advised, by maintaining a joyful attitude like St. Francis of Assisi while being penitent and seeking conversion.