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JPIC 2019 New Year’s Letter

"It is no accident that the message for this new year speaks to the political arena. There are those of the mind that Franciscans have no place in politics. Both Jesus and Francis ministered in the heart of the political sphere because this is where the “least of these” resided and were ignored. It is in this political arena where we must pray, learn and act for justice, to right the wrongs done to our brothers and sisters who have no recourse and are left to fend for themselves."

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T11:13:58-04:00January 1st, 2019|Categories: JPIC|3 Comments

Happy Feast of the Holy Family!

Beloved National Family, On this Feast of the Holy Family, I rejoice and give thanks for our beautiful Secular Franciscan family! I am so thankful for all the goodness that I see in this family! What a joy it is to be part of this family!

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:15:20-04:00December 30th, 2018|Categories: Minister’s Message|0 Comments

Christmas Messages From Our National and International Ministers

“How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is given!”-- These words came to mind as I read the beautiful Christmas letter sent to us today from our brother and General Minister, Tibor Kauser.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:17:06-04:00December 25th, 2018|Categories: Announcements, CIOFS|0 Comments

Website committee looking for help

Hello everyone,

The national website committee is looking for help with things like moving content from the old site to the new site, site maintenance, and providing live posting and updating support at various national events. Although any help would be welcome, it […]

Jim Thomas2024-09-25T13:18:23-04:00November 8th, 2018|Categories: Announcements, Website Housekeeping|3 Comments

What’s in a name? NAFRA vs. OFS-USA

The acronym “NAFRA” has been used for years to refer to the National Fraternity. However, it isn’t unique to the United States.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:20:54-04:00October 25th, 2018|Categories: From the Newsletter|1 Comment

Nation Executive Council Election Results

After reflecting together on the needs of our Order, after spending time in prayer and formation, and after invoking the help of the Holy Spirit, the National Fraternity has chosen the team that will guide and animate the Fraternity for the next three years. The following servant leaders were elected […]

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:22:26-04:00October 13th, 2018|Categories: Announcements, National Chapter|5 Comments

The election has begun…

… please keep the entire National Fraternity in your prayers this afternoon and evening.

Results to follow as soon as they are all available.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:25:46-04:00October 13th, 2018|Categories: National Chapter|1 Comment

OFS USA Chapter Update: 2018 JPIC Award Presented

It was my joyful honor to present the 2018 recipient of the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Award, Kathleen Carsten, OFS.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:23:58-04:00October 11th, 2018|Categories: JPIC, National Chapter|0 Comments

2018 State of the Order

During this morning's session of the National Chapter, our National Minister, Jan Parker, OFS, delivered the 2018 State of the Order presentation. The State of the Order document, as well as the presentation slides can be found on the Chapter's web page. Please take some time to read, reflect on, and pray about what Jan has shared with us in this important document.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:28:11-04:00October 10th, 2018|Categories: National Chapter|0 Comments

2018 National Chapter

The National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order - USA (NAFRA) began its 2018 Chapter last night in St Louis. Many important topics will be addressed by our servant leaders this week and, on Saturday, an election will be held to select our national leadership team for the next three years.

Jim Thomas2022-05-23T14:31:02-04:00October 10th, 2018|Categories: National Chapter|1 Comment