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