Franciscan Spirit Blog

St. Anthony of Padua

St. Anthony, Help Me Find…Beauty

St. Anthony of Padua, that Hammer of Heretics, serves as a model to me that I am to preach against any dualism within myself that blocks an openness to beauty.
Read More →

Holy, Wholly Healthy: When Your Suffering Can’t Be Seen

When we do not see someone’s symptoms, we might assume that the person is not suffering.
Read More →
candles at church

Holy, Wholly Healthy: Finding a Sacred Space

We are all called to prayer, to talk to our God about what is happening in our lives. When we are worried about life-changing health issues, who better to talk with?
Read More →
Images of Blessed Carlo Acutis and the Eucharist are seen outside the building of the Friends of Carlo Acutis association in Assisi, Italy, in this Oct. 9, 2020, file photo. The U.S. bishops have chosen Blessed Acutis as the patron of the first year of a three-year National Eucharistic Revival. The Italian teen had a great love of the Eucharist and used his technology skills to build an online database of eucharistic miracles around the world. (CNS photo/Junno Arocho Esteves)

Carlo Acutis: A True Original

When I think of Carlo Acutis, I think about how he, too, was rooted in where he was. He wasn't particularly well-traveled. But his faith is marveled the world over. I love that about him.
Read More →

Holy, Wholly Healthy: Pumping Up with Prayer

Exercise can bring many physical and psychological benefits. When we add a layer of prayer, we can benefit spiritually.
Read More →

Holy, Wholly Healthy: Helping Others, Healing Ourselves

We all can benefit from giving back, from volunteering, even if we have health problems. Connecting with others brings hope into our lives.
Read More →

Holy, Wholly Healthy: The Stigma of Mental Illness

As Christians, we speak of respecting all life but, in reality, we often neglect people with mental illness.
Read More →

Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter

Includes Saint of the Day, Minute Meditations, and Pause + Pray.