Posts from:

Jack Wintz, OFM

Jack Wintz, OFM, wore many editorial hats at St. Anthony Messenger before his retirement in 2018. He is also the author of Friar Jack's Favorite Prayers and Saint Anthony of Padua: His Life, Legends, and Devotions, both published by Franciscan Media.

Statue of St. Anthony and Jeuss | Photo by Wolfgang Krzemien

Saint Anthony, the Contemplative

Jack Wintz, OFM May 9, 2020

It was not until the year 2002 that I discovered the very first book ever written about Saint Anthony, the contemplative.

Saint Juan Diego: New World Apostle

Jack Wintz, OFM May 9, 2020

Juan Diego is more well-known than any king, queen, bishop, missionary or conquistador of that era. Though famous personalities pass away, Juan Diego continues to live in the memory of the people.

Will I See My Pet in Heaven?

Jack Wintz, OFM February 4, 2020

The creation story of Genesis suggests that God’s care and love extend to all creatures.

Why St. Francis Belongs on the Birdbath

Jack Wintz, OFM September 25, 2019

Since his death, St. Francis of Assisi has been the subject of some of the world’s most admired works of art.

Psalm 42: Longing for You, O God

Jack Wintz, OFM March 25, 2019

“As the deer longs for streams of water, So my soul longs for you, O God.” (Psalm 42:2)

Notes from a Friar: A Look at Hell

Jack Wintz, OFM February 18, 2019

A lot of people have questions about heaven, hell, and purgatory. To better understand hell, let’s review a bit. Everything about God and us centers on relationship. Heaven is complete and perfect union with God for eternity. Purgatory is union with God (through sanctifying grace), which is imperfect and incomplete.