DIVINE MERCY REGION ANNUAL DAY OF REFLECTION

On the 26th of October, the Divine Mercy Region gathered together for a day of reflection and renewal centered on the theme, “The Stigmata, St. Francis, and His Journey through Suffering.” This Formation Day offered us a deeply contemplative path into understanding suffering through the life of St. Francis of Assisi, whose enduring example of resilience and spiritual strength continues to inspire and guide us on our own journeys. 

The day began with warm fellowship over a light breakfast, setting a welcoming tone that fostered connection among our Secular Franciscan community. A spirit of unity filled the space, imbuing our gathering with a profound sense of shared purpose. 

Welcome and Introductions – Regional Minister Kathleen Carsten, OFS

Kathleen opened the day with heartfelt words, framing our time together as a sacred journey of collective growth and introspection. Her welcome reminded us of the importance of gathering in mutual support, strengthening our commitment to the Franciscan path. 

With grace, Beth Price, OFS, led us in a morning prayer that invited the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and reflections. This prayer created a moment of grounding and quiet, centering our hearts on the day’s sacred theme. 

Morning Sessions

Beth Price, OFS, our Regional Formation Director, began the first session with a profound exploration of “St. Francis and Suffering.” Beth’s reflections illuminated how St. Francis embraced his afflictions as a path toward communion with Christ. Her insights into the stigmata and the redemptive power of suffering offered us a moving and thought-provoking perspective on how suffering when accepted with faith, can draw us closer to God. 

 The morning break provided a gentle pause, allowing us to absorb the morning’s teachings and engage in informal conversations that deepened our connection. 

In the next session, Eileen Smith, OFS, and Mike Okragleski, OFS, shared stories of contemporary Franciscan witnesses who lived out their faith through the trials of daily life. Their stories of resilience and unwavering devotion were inspiring and profound examples of the strength of living one’s faith within the crucible of suffering. 

Midday Meal

Our midday meal was a time to nourish both body and spirit. Over lunch, we were drawn together in conversation, and sharing a meal helped deepen our sense of kinship.  

Afternoon Sessions 

 The first session after lunch invited us to reflect on “Suffering in Our Lives.” This session, led by Michelle Bryk, OFS, and Britteny Waldenzic, OFS, encouraged us to explore our experiences of suffering. Their compassionate approach created a safe space for vulnerability, where we could examine our challenges and consider how they might serve as growth sources. The dialogue was filled with empathy, fostering a sense of shared healing as each story brought new perspectives and insights. 

 Following a brief intermission, we gathered again for personal prayer and reflection. This quiet time allowed us to internalize the day's teachings and seek God’s presence and guidance as we meditated on our journeys. 

 Our group came together for a final sharing session, where participants reflected on the day’s lessons. The voices around the room contributed to a collective sense of strength and unity, deepening our shared understanding of suffering and faith. 

 As our day of formation and reflection transitioned to worship, we prepared ourselves for Mass, embracing this culminating moment of gratitude and reverence.  

Brother Johan Paul Gill, OFM, Cap, our Regional Spiritual Assistant, presided over the Mass and delivered a homily that elegantly weaved together the day's themes. His words resonated deeply, reminding us of the redemptive nature of suffering and the hope we find in our unity with Christ. 

Personal Reflection 

Reflecting on this Formation Day, I am moved by our Franciscan community's unwavering sense of solidarity. The teachings on suffering illuminated through St. Francis's life have profoundly deepened my understanding of how our pain, when united with Christ, can become a source of spiritual growth and compassion for others. 

The session on “Suffering in Our Lives” particularly touched me. Hearing the personal experiences of my fellow Franciscans was humbling and inspiring. It reminded me that we are never truly alone in our struggles; we are part of a larger family that walks alongside us, offering support and understanding in every trial. 

This day of reflection has renewed my resolve to live out the Franciscan values of humility, compassion, and joy, even in the face of life’s hardships. I am deeply grateful for the chance to gather with my brothers and sisters in faith, and I carry forward the insights and strength we shared. 

May we continue to find strength and peace in our shared journey, following St. Francis's example as we embrace the challenges and blessings that shape our lives. 

 Pax et Bonum,

Mike

Faith, Politics, and the 2024 Election: A Catholic Perspective

Introduction:

Join the discussion on faith and politics as we delve into the dynamics of the 2024 election through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching.

Setting the Stage: Faith in Public Dialogue

Georgetown's initiative on Catholic Social thought and public life brings together over 350,000 people to engage in respectful dialogue on faith amid the hunger for meaningful conversations.

Political and Religious Dynamics of 2024 Election

Explore Pope Francis' perspective on listening, serving, and transitioning from partisanship to participation in politics, emphasizing dialogue across differences.

Embracing Social Justice in Catholic Teaching

Delve into the importance of social justice within Catholic Social Thought, highlighting its alignment with core values of the Church for a more just society.

Kamala Harris's Effective Strategies

Analyzing Kamala Harris's debate tactics and her alignment with Catholic Social thought in unifying agendas for effective policymaking.

Trump's Influence on Voter Dynamics

Examining Trump's impact on working-class voters and the challenges faced by Democrats in mobilizing diverse voter groups amidst increased enthusiasm.

Religious Diversity in the Democratic Party

Navigating the challenges posed by diverse religious affiliations within the Democratic party and the need for effective communication and coalition-building.

Balancing Communitarianism in Politics

Discussing the importance of community and solidarity in public life contrasting with individualism, reflecting on the current political landscape post-Trumpism.

Democracy's Role in Achieving Justice

Exploring the balance between justice and injustice in democracy, emphasizing the importance of open discourse and goodwill in achieving the common good.

Influence of Religious Voices on Social Justice Issues

Highlighting the potential for religious perspectives to align with creating a more just society, emphasizing cooperation and dialogue with differing viewpoints.

Upcoming Events and Discussions

Previewing the Latino leader gathering and further analyses in November focusing on key principles of Catholic Social thought for insightful discussions.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the complexities of faith, politics, and the upcoming 2024 election, embracing dialogue, social justice, and cooperation can pave the way for a more inclusive and just society.

Traversing the Depts of Belief

Vatican II, Secular Franciscanism, and Contemporary Dilemmas

Emerging from the shadows of Vatican II, my relationship with the Catholic faith has been a profound confluence of revelation and introspection. The Council, which boldly championed harmonizing tradition with the contemporary pulse, laid the foundation of my early spiritual encounters. It was a chapter steeped in renewal, with the Church seemingly embracing a more expansive and empathetic vision.

As I matured, my devotion pulled me towards the Secular Franciscan Order. The Franciscan path, with its heart anchored in humility, simplicity, and a reverence for creation, struck a resonant chord in me. It provided a spiritual sanctuary aligned with the ethos of Christ's teachings. Yet, this path has not been devoid of turbulence, especially in an era where Catholic fundamentalism and Christian nationalism cast long shadows across the landscape of the US Catholic Church.

Vatican II: A Turning Point of Renewal

The Second Vatican Council remains a pivotal watershed in Catholic history, an era when the Church sought to engage with the evolving world rather than retreat. The reforms it initiated were profound, forever altering the Church’s posture:

• The introduction of vernacular languages into the Mass.

• Greater involvement of laypeople within the sacred liturgy.

• A renewed pursuit of social justice and interfaith harmony.

For those of us nurtured in this post-Vatican II environment, the Church felt alive—an entity that was evolving and adaptive to the needs of its congregants and the wider world. It was a time when faith and reason engaged in a harmonious dialogue, fueling a spirit of optimism and inclusivity.

Walking the Franciscan Path

My steps naturally led me to embrace the Secular Franciscan life, a call to embody the Gospel in the tapestry of everyday existence. St. Francis of Assisi's teachings, with his deep love for all creatures and unwavering commitment to justice and peace, offered a compelling blueprint for holiness.

In this path, I discovered a community of like-minded souls bonded by a shared pursuit of simplicity and compassion. Together, we worked to manifest our faith through charity, stewardship of the environment, and advocacy for the disenfranchised. This collective pursuit of purpose fortified my spiritual journey, anchoring me in knowing that our faith could be lived out tangibly in the world.

The Rise of Rigidity: Fundamentalism and Nationalism

Yet, in recent times, the face of the US Catholic Church has morphed into something dissonant. The rise of Catholic fundamentalism and Christian nationalism has introduced discord into my spiritual path. These movements, steeped in rigid dogmatism and often entwined with political fervor, stand in stark opposition to the inclusive, compassionate spirit of Vatican II and the Franciscan way.

Catholic fundamentalism clings to a stringent interpretation of tradition, often stifling dialogue and critical reflection. This rigidity creates an environment where dissent is unwelcome, and those who question or seek broader interpretations of faith are marginalized.

Christian nationalism, on the other hand, entwines faith with national identity, promoting an exclusionary vision of America that distorts the universal message of love and unity that the Church ought to represent. This fusion of religion and politics turns the Church into an instrument of partisan ideologies, undermining its role as a beacon of justice and compassion.

A Beacon of Hope Amidst Trials

Despite the turbulence these movements have introduced into the modern Church, I remain unwavering in my devotion. The values of Vatican II and the Franciscan tradition continue to illuminate my path, reminding me that at the heart of Christianity lies a profound commitment to love, mercy, and service.

In these challenging times, holding fast to these core principles is essential. By nurturing dialogue, embracing the richness of diversity, and championing justice, we can help the Church reflect the transformative message of the Gospel.

While my journey as a child of Vatican II and a Secular Franciscan has been marked by joy and sorrow, I face the future with hope and resilience. Against the rising tide of fundamentalism and nationalism, I find solace in the enduring legacy of Vatican II and the timeless wisdom of St. Francis. These pillars remind me that, ultimately, love will triumph.

Peace

Mike

Embracing the Call for Religious Harmony

Pope Francis speaks to religious leaders on the grounds of Indonesia's national mosque in Jakarta, Indonesia, Sept 5, 2024. (photo: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA / EWTN)

A Message from the Divine Mercy Region Ecumenical & Interreligious Animator

As Secular Franciscans, we are called to live out the Gospel daily, fostering peace, understanding, and cooperation among all people. Recently, Pope Francis took a significant step in this direction by signing the Istiqlal Joint Declaration 2024 titled “Fostering Religious Harmony for the Sake of Humanity.”   during his visit to the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, Indonesia, on September 5, 2024 [1] [2].

Key Points of the Istiqlal Joint Declaration 2024

1.      Promotion of Human Dignity: The declaration emphasizes the inherent dignity of every human being, urging religious leaders to work together to uphold and protect this fundamental value [1].

2.      Interreligious Dialogue: It calls for increased dialogue and cooperation between different faith communities to foster mutual understanding and respect [2].

3.      Condemnation of Religious-Based Violence: The document strongly condemns any form of violence carried out in the name of religion, advocating for peaceful resolutions and harmony [1].

4.      Environmental Protection: Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change, the declaration encourages religious communities to take active roles in environmental conservation efforts [4].

Action Items for Our Fraternities

To bring the spirit of this declaration into our daily lives and communities, we propose the following action items for our fraternities:

1.      Organize Interfaith Dialogues: Host regular meetings with local religious leaders and communities to discuss common values and address shared concerns. This can help build bridges and foster mutual respect.

2.      Educational Workshops: Conduct workshops on human dignity and the importance of interreligious dialogue. These can be open to the public to spread awareness and understanding.

3.      Community Service Projects: Collaborate with other faith communities on service projects, such as environmental clean-ups or social justice initiatives, to demonstrate our commitment to the common good.

4.      Prayer and Reflection: Dedicate time during our gatherings for prayer and reflection on the themes of the declaration. This can help us internalize these values and inspire us to live them out.

5.      Advocacy: Advocate for policies and practices that promote human dignity, environmental protection, and peaceful coexistence within our local and broader communities.

By embracing these actions, we can contribute to a world where peace, understanding, and cooperation prevail. Let us take inspiration from Pope Francis and the Grand Imam's example and work tirelessly to promote harmony and respect among all people.

[1]: Pope Francis and Grand Imam Sign Joint Declaration at Indonesia Mosque [2]: Pope Francis to sign tolerance document in Indonesia [4]: Pope and Indonesia's grand imam sign declaration to fight climate change

May the peace and love of Christ guide us in all our endeavors.

In Franciscan Peace,

Mike Carsten OFS

Ecumenical and Interreligious Animator

Minister Troubadours of St. Clare Fraternity

 Divine Mercy Region

A Labor of Love

Celebrating Labor Day: A Secular Franciscan Perspective on the Dignity of Work

As we approach Labor Day, it's a fitting time to reflect on the Franciscan view of labor and its profound significance in our lives. For Secular Franciscans, work is not merely a means to an end but a sacred activity connecting us to God's creation and one another.

The Dignity of Work

St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of our Franciscan tradition, deeply respected the dignity of labor. He believed that all work, whether manual or intellectual, is a form of participation in God's creative action. This perspective transforms our understanding of labor from a mundane task to a holy endeavor. No matter how humble, every job has intrinsic value and contributes to the common good.

Work as a Form of Service

In the Franciscan tradition, work is seen as a service to others. St. Francis engaged in manual labor and encouraged his followers to do the same. By working diligently and with a spirit of humility, we serve our communities and reflect the love of Christ. This service-oriented approach to labor reminds us that our work is not just for personal gain but for the benefit of all.

The Joy of Simplicity

Franciscans embrace a life of simplicity, which extends to our approach to work. We are called to find joy in simple tasks and perform them with love and dedication. This simplicity helps us focus on the present moment and appreciate the beauty in everyday activities. It also encourages us to live sustainably and respect the resources that God has provided.

Solidarity with Workers

Labor Day is also a time to stand in solidarity with workers worldwide. The Franciscan tradition emphasizes social justice and the rights of workers. We are called to advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the dignity of all laborers. By supporting these principles, we honor the legacy of St. Francis and contribute to a more just and compassionate society.

A Prayerful Approach to Work

Finally, as Secular Franciscans, we must integrate prayer into our daily work. By offering our tasks to God and seeking His guidance, we can transform our labor into worship. This prayerful approach helps us remain mindful of our purpose and find deeper meaning in our work.

Insights from our Rule of Life

The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order provides further guidance on how we should approach labor:

●      Article 16: "Let them esteem work both as a gift and as a sharing in the creation, redemption, and service of the human community"1. This reminds us that work is a divine gift and a way to participate in God's creation.

●      Article 14: "Secular Franciscans, together with all people of goodwill, are called to build a more fraternal and evangelical world so that the kingdom of God may be brought about more effectively"1. This emphasizes our role in promoting justice and fraternity through our work.

●      Article 10: "Let them be mindful that according to the gospel they are stewards of the goods received for the benefit of God's children. "1. This calls us to use our talents and resources responsibly and for the common good.

As we celebrate Labor Day, remember the Franciscan view of labor as a sacred and dignified activity. May we approach our work with a spirit of service, simplicity, and prayer, and may we stand in solidarity with all workers, advocating for justice and compassion in the workplace.

Peace and all good,

Mike

Source(s)

1. THE RULE OF THE SECULAR FRANCISCAN ORDER

2. Secular Franciscan Rule - Secular Franciscans

3. The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order | EWTN

4. The Rule of The Secular Franciscan Order - USA

Franciscan Ministries 2024 Christmas Appeal

FRANCISCAN MINISTRIES

An Apostolate of the Troubadours of St. Clare Fraternity - Secular Franciscan Order

Sisters and Brothers,

Peace and all good to you. 

Franciscan Ministries is entering its eleventh year of service, and as we prepare for the additional needs of our community as Christmas approaches, we reflect on our impact and the lives we have touched, thanks to the generosity of people like you.

Since our beginnings in 2014, we have been driven by the vision and dedication of our members, who are part of the Secular Franciscan Order. Inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, we are committed to serving those in need.

Throughout the year, Franciscan Ministries Inc. has been a reliable source of support for groceries, simple meals, and clothing for individuals and families facing various challenges. We strive to spread compassion and dignity to those who need it most.

This Christmas, we aim to go above and beyond our regular services and bring hope to even more lives. With your support, we can make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals. Your contribution will enable us to:

•      Serve warm meals: Your donation will help us provide a delicious, nourishing meal for those who might otherwise go without.

•      Support emergency relief efforts: Unfortunately, as winter approaches, many individuals and families face crises. With your help, we can provide immediate assistance, including warm day shelter, blankets, sleeping bags, warm winter coats, and other necessities.

•      Organize community events and outreach programs: 

o   Your donation will help us organize events that promote unity, celebrate diversity, and bring people together during special times of the year.

o   Distribute back-to-school backpacks for children. 

o   Distribute gift packages: We want to bring gifts to children and families who may not have the means to celebrate. It can be in the way of toys, games, and/or essential items for those in need.

o   Distribute bicycles in the spring to children. o Distribute winter coats beginning in November for all ages. 

Your generosity has the power to transform lives and ignite a sense of hope in the hearts of those who are struggling. Together, we can make this Christmas memorable for our Detroit community residents.

To donate, please visit our website at www.franciscanministry.org, call or text me at 810-814-0047, or email at mikecars10@gmail.com. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will significantly impact the lives of those we serve.

Franciscan Ministries, Inc. is a 501.c.3 nonprofit

created & led by members of the Secular Franciscan Order  

HOW CAN YOU HELP?  

•      Gift cards from Costco, Kroger, Walmart

•      Men’s and Women’s Hoodies: L, XL, XXL, XXXL                       

•      Men's and Women’s Heavy Winter Coats:  L, XL, XXL, XXXL

•      Boys and girls winter coats—ALL SIZES  

•      Men’s and women's Winter boots: Sizes 9 to 14                   

•      Sleeping Bags:  for freezing weather       

•      White Tube Socks!!!!! We go through thousands of these each month.  

•      Hand Warmers: As many as you can!  We go through thousands of these each year. 

•      Non-perishable food for our senior grocery bags

•      Plastic t-shirt grocery bags 

•      Paper Grocery bags

We extend our deepest gratitude on behalf of Franciscan Ministries Inc. and the countless individuals who will benefit from your kindness. May this Christmas season fill your heart with warmth and joy. Thank you for your continued support.

Blessings, 

Michael and Kathleen Carsten, OFS

Franciscan Ministries Inc.

Cell – 810-814-0047

Email – mikecars10@Franciscanministryinc.org

Website – www.francisanministry.org

WHY WORK IS PART OF THE SFO WAY OF LIFE

This article is a TAU-USA reprint from many years ago. Happy Labor Day! Mike

Ed Zablocki, SFO
Co-Chair, Work Commission

Let them esteem work both as a gift and as a sharing in the creation, redemption, and service of the human community. (Art. 16)

What is the source of article 16 concerning "work" found in our 1978 Rule? In the preceding article, we learned that in previous Secular Franciscan Rules hardly any mention is made of work and then, only tangentially, in relation to obligations to fast. In contrast, the original First Order Rule had an entire section addressing the friars' attitude toward work. St. Francis mentions the "grace of working" for friars primarily as an antidote to idleness which he considered as the greatest enemy of the soul. Work was also a means for the friars to provide good example and to further identify their lot with the minores who labored hard to sustain their existence.

But why is work now included as a positive element of our 1978 Rule? To discover the answer to that question, we need to consider the decade-long process of developing of our new Rule. The process was precipitated by the events of the Second Vatican Council. All Orders in the Church were called to reinvigorate themselves by both returning to the charism of the order's founder and by adapting the Church's new understandings of herself and of the world realized through the efforts of the Council. We see both these movements, the recovery of the old and embrace the new, present in the development of our present Secular Franciscan rule.

The call in our 1978 Rule to a life of "conversion" (art. 7) is a prime example of a return to our original charism - recovering the original meaning of "penance" as an on-going change of heart rather than a collection of penitential practices . In terms of embracing the newness of vision presented by the Council, Fr. John C. Haughey in Converting 9 to 5: A Spirituality of Daily Work, notes that as a result of the Council, the Church found "new clarity" about "its role in the world, the vocation of the laity, the extension of the understanding of ministry, and the autonomy of the secular." All these elements concern laypersons and represent profoundly good news for lay women and men. A layperson's ordinary life in the world was no longer understood by the Church as an obstacle to but rather as the very means of attaining holiness. The laity no longer had to attempt to emulate the monastic ideal in their pursuit of holiness and of the kingdom or be burdened with guilt about being spiritually second-rate. Our spiritual path was no longer to move away from the world but to grow in holiness and help bring about God's kingdom right where we were - in and through our involvement in the world through our on-going relationships and commitments in our families, our communities and our work. This new and positive appreciation of the role of the laity is called "secular spirituality." This spirituality embodies an appreciation and reverence for the presence of God in the mundane that is eminently Franciscan in its vision of the goodness of all creation.

Secular spirituality represented a dramatic change in understanding concerning the role of laypersons in fulfilling their vocation and mission. And, not really surprisingly, given our natural resistance to change, this spirituality was not quickly incorporated into the new Secular Franciscan Rule. In "De Illis Qui Faciunt Penitentiam" The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order: Origins, Development, Interpretation, Robert M. Stewart, OFM, observes that seven years after the process of developing the new Rule began an International Commission reviewing the latest draft "most strongly criticized the 1974 Rule draft for its failure to present adequately a specifically 'secular' spirituality." This Commission also noted that the draft "contains little that would not also be appropriate within a rule for a canonical religious Franciscan group."

In response to this critique, the next Rule draft included the addition of an entirely new section called In the Midst of the World. Here we see mention made of "work" for the first time in development of the new Rule:

Like all members of the Franciscan Family, we are sent to the entire world. As seculars, we have our own vocation: living in the midst of the world, engaged in various duties and works of the world, it is our duty to enlighten and to direct all temporal realities to which we are closely united, in such a way that they may work and prosper constantly according to Christ and may be to the glory of the Creator and Redeemer. Also, as members of secular society, we will know how, according to the gifts given by the Lord, to take our share of responsibility, bringing to this management of temporal things the spirit of the Beatitudes. By our witness and our action, joined with that of other men and women, we will work in these different sectors towards the realization of the plan of God for the world. It is first of all in our family that we will live the Franciscan spirit, striving to make it a sign of the world already renewed in Christ. We will make our work a participation in the development of creation, the redemption of men and women, and a service to the whole human community . Finally, aware that it belongs to the whole Church to make people capable of building the temporal order well and of orienting it toward Christ, with a clear distinction of the rights and duties of ecclesial communities, the secular fraternities will assume their apostolic and social responsibilities and commit themselves to concrete evangelical choices.

Work entered our 1978 Secular Franciscan Rule as an integral part of the Church's wonderful new vision for the laity. "Christ's redemptive work, while of itself directed toward the salvation of men, involves also the renewal of the whole temporal order. Hence the mission of the church is not only to bring to men the message and grace of Christ, but also to penetrate and perfect the temporal sphere with the spirit of the gospel." (Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity, 5) Our work in the world is helping to bring about God's plan to return all things to Christ. This mission is given by the Church particularly to the laity as their "distinctive task." (ibid.)

St. Francis, who so thoroughly embraced the goals of the Fourth Lateran Council that its symbol (the Tau) became his own, must be pleased to see the effort made to make our new Rule faithful to Vatican II's exciting and challenging vision of the vocation and mission of the laity. Perhaps he is even delighted - because this vision itself is so very Franciscan in nature - seeing the world in a positive light as "an incarnation of the love of God."

The Echo of St. Clare's Transitus: A Journey of Heart and Soul

"Gaze, consider, contemplate, imitate." In the secret spaces of our souls and amidst the heartbeats of our fraternity, a tale as ancient as it is ever new reverberates the story of St. Clare's Transitus. As August 10th unfolds, a date which to many might seem like any other, for us, the Secular Franciscan community, it vibrates with a sacred hum, marking the celestial voyage of St. Clare.

 These words, a whispered mantra, trace the very cadence of Clare's spirit, painting a portrait of her pilgrimage from mere existence to profound enlightenment.

Gaze

To gaze is to drown oneself in the depths of what is seen. Clare did not merely see Christ; she gazed upon Him, losing herself and finding a universe of divine love. It beckons us to not just glance but to truly see - to witness the Godliness in our brethren, to recognize the sacred dance of joy and sorrow, to embrace each other with the same intensity as Clare embraced the vision of the divine.

Consider

Pondering deeper, St. Clare went beyond the superficial layers of life. She weighed her choices, embraced her destiny, and felt a divine pull towards a life echoing St. Francis's footsteps. As  fraternity, we pause and reflect, intertwining Clare's wisdom with our shared narrative, letting her echoes guide our shared journey.

Contemplate

In the sanctuary of silence, Clare found her most profound dialogues. Under the canopy of stars in Assisi, she danced in the divine embrace. Together, our fraternity finds strength in such contemplative silences. There are moments when our hearts synchronize, transcending words, and we touch the essence of divinity.

Imitate

The essence of Clare's life was her imitation of Christ's boundless compassion. Her every act mirrored the Savior's grace, beckoning us to follow suit. In fraternity, we seek to walk in her shadow, making her legacy our own. Each kind deed, every comforting word, becomes a reflection of her, and through her, of Christ Himself.

The Transitus of St. Clare is not a mere remembrance; it's a symphony of love, sacrifice, and divine surrender. As the notes play, we are invited to lose ourselves and find our true purpose, dancing to the same rhythm that once moved the heart of St. Clare. As a Secular Franciscan Fraternity, on this day and always, let us journey together, gazing, considering, contemplating, and ever striving to imitate our beloved Clare's footsteps.

Wishing you God’s Peace

Mike

Franciscan Centenary

In the embrace of time's flowing river,

A momentous milestone draws near,

Eight centuries of Franciscan endeavor,

A legacy cherished, crystal clear.

Centenaries, a celebration profound,

Gazing beyond the horizon's crest,

To strengthen our Franciscan ground,

And nurture our charism, blessed.

St. Francis, the Divine's chosen one,

Received a gift, pure and rare,

Complementarity,

communion spun,

Radiating love, beyond compare.

Those who adore the Lord's embrace,

With hearts aflame, burning bright,

Invited to join in this sacred space,

Honoring the Poverello' s holy light.

Laudato si' echoes the Franciscan call,

To witness the beauty of the Gospel's tune,

Through creation's embrace, we stand tall,

Uniting hearts under a celestial moon.

A prophetic vision, we dare to dream,

Rekindling the fire that burns within,

A future bathed in love's sacred gleam,

Igniting souls, releasing the din.

A tapestry woven, the Franciscan Family,

With colors vibrant, diverse and true,

Let all activities and initiatives be,

Coordinated, as one, through and through.

A commission, representing the whole,

Shall guide and inspire with utmost care,

Ensuring our unity, an enchanting role,

Visible, united, a Franciscan prayer.

So let us gather, hand in hand,

In this jubilant journey, forever bound,

800 years, a story we expand,

A celebration resounding, profound.

May the spirit of St. Francis guide our way,

As we honor the past and the future we seek,

With love and joy, we humbly pray,

For the Franciscan Family, strong and meek.

Kathleen Carsten, OFS

Holly Michigan

In the land where memories rest, with solemn grace,

There lies a sanctuary, a hallowed place,

A Soldiers Cemetery, in Holly Michigan's embrace,

Where heroes find eternal repose, a timeless space.

Oh, let me take you on a journey profound,

To a sacred ground where honor is found,

Where the whispers of valor echo all around,

And the spirits of the brave forever abound.

On this Memorial Day, we gather in respect,

To pay homage to those we'll never forget,

The brave men and women who courageously protect,

The freedoms we cherish, the ideals we connect.

Beneath azure skies, with flags unfurled,

Row upon row, a sea of granite and pearl,

Silent sentinels, standing tall in this sacred world,

Their stories are etched in stone, each one unfurls.

As we walk through this field, an ocean of green,

We can sense the sacrifice, the valor unseen,

For here lies the essence of the American dream,

In the hearts of those who fought, in battles unforeseen.

In every breath of wind that softly sighs,

We hear the laments of loved ones' cries,

The tears shed for heroes who reached the skies,

Their legacy, a beacon that never dies.

With hearts heavy but spirits aglow,

We remember their courage, the strength they showed,

Their names may fade, but their stories, we bestow,

In this sacred soil, their bravery will forever flow.

So, let us honor those who laid down their lives,

For the cause of justice, for freedom that survives,

In this National Cemetery, where reverence thrives,

We bow our heads, forever grateful, with tear-filled eyes.

Miss you, Dad,