Franciscan Spirit

Seven Days with Mary: New Eve

Maureen O'Brien and Holly Schapker May 10, 2019

I’ve never understood Eve. Whenever I think of her apple, my mind is drawn to another woman with an “ordinary” object who led me to Mary. I am hesitating to tell this story because it’s precious to me. Four years ago, through a series of serendipitous events, I found myself spending the month of June at a writer’s retreat in the mountains of Assisi, Italy. On a blistering, hot afternoon, I descended the steps into the cool underground of the Basilica of St. Clare of Assisi.

Seven Days with Mary: Omnipresence

Maureen O'Brien and Holly Schapker May 9, 2019

I must admit, Holly’s rendering of a cross-cultural Mary touches my heart. In it, I see the shy expression of hundreds of teen girls I’ve taught. The omnipresence of Mary’s love is essential because I can’t rely on yesterday’s beliefs. ...

Seven Days with Mary: Pondering in Our Hearts

Maureen O'Brien and Holly Schapker May 8, 2019

I love the expression “pondering in our hearts” because it so aptly captures my own journey with Mary. In all my years walking a spiritual path, I’ve striven to bring the best of who I am to each of my ...

Seven Days with Mary: Relinquishment

Maureen O'Brien and Holly Schapker May 7, 2019

As a writer I’m particularly struck by words that most of us know the meaning of, yet rarely incorporate into our daily conversations. Relinquishment is such a word. I begin each day asking the Divine to help me let go, ...

Seven Days with Mary: The Unfinished Story

Maureen O'Brien and Holly Schapker May 6, 2019

To think of Mary’s story as unfinished gives me comfort. There are moments in my morning quiet time, the smoke of rose incense rising, where I pray to her and I find that sense of peace within.