Peace and Blessings!
It is my honor to write this, my first message as the new Director at Franciscan Mission Associates (FMA) and Provincial Minister at Immaculate Conception (IC) Province.
Today, we celebrate St. Francis of Assisi’s Feast Day. As you can imagine, it is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection for my Franciscan Brothers and me. This year, we honor the 800th anniversary of the publication of Francis’ Canticle of the Creatures.
While centuries have passed since Francis walked the earth, his values and teachings have never been more relevant. He saw the sun, moon, earth, and animals as precious gifts of creation entrusted to us to honor and protect—he is truly the patron saint of animals and ecology.
Francis’ legacy is widespread and enduring. On Sunday October 5, IC Province will ordain four student friars as new deacons. This past spring, we celebrated Fr. John’s ordination to the priesthood. It is inspiring to witness Francis’ Christlike work continue in this new generation of friars.
Francis was well-known for his childlike joyfulness, a quality made possible by the freedom of knowing that he was loved unconditionally by God. He experienced Jesus risen and living in our hearts, and teaches us that we can do the same if only we open our hearts and let Jesus in.
It is entirely through the generosity of people like you that my Franciscan Brothers and I can carry out Christ’s work in mission lands and parishes closer to home. Through your support, we continue Francis’ legacy—feeding the poor, providing education and medical care to the most vulnerable people, and overseeing the formation of Franciscan students.
In honor of St. Francis, may I ask for a small donation today? No gift given in love is too small in God’s eyes.
God bless you!
Fr. Patrick, OFM
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Franciscan Friars observe the Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ by living in obedience, without anything of one’s own. We depend entirely on the generosity of others to continue Christ’s work.
