Franciscan Spirit

Vision for a New Community

On July 5, 1852, Fredrick Douglas, in addressing an anti-slavery conference in New York, said: “At a time like this, scorching irony, not convincing argument, is needed. O! had I the ability, and could I reach the nation’s ear, I would, to-day, pour out a fiery stream.

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Lanterns in the sky

Hope & Humility: Our Weapons against COVID-19

Most of us want to believe that the world is fundamentally predictable and safe.
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Man praying | Photo by Ric Rodrigues

How Can Anyone Pray ‘Always’?

Prayer is saying “yes” to the paschal mystery at work in all things.
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praying with the saints

Praying with the Saints: All Are Welcome

We love, Scripture says, because God first loved us (see 1 John 4:19). That’s also why praying is so vital—because God’s love melts our chill, sparks our desire, ignites our love.
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dying

Prayers for the Dying: A Meditation for Lent

For me, visiting a dying person is a special, graced-filled moment because I am so much aware of the loving care the Church gives to one about to enter eternity.
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10 Influential Catholics

In celebration of their holiness, virtue, and influence, here is a Top Ten list of saints who substantially shaped the face of the Catholic Church.
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The plants and flowers in Pietro Perugino's "The Crucifixion with the Virgin, St. John, St. Jerome and St. Mary Magdalene" convey a symbolic message. Perugino used red poppies, violets and a deep-pink mallow to symbolize death, humility and salvation, respectively. The painting is among those on display in "The Flowering of Florence: Botanical Art for the Medici" exhibit at the National Gallery of Art in Washington through May 27. (CNS photo courtesy National Gallery of Art)

Honoring St. Mary Magdalene

Though she was never known to waver in her support of Jesus, Mary Magdalene’s actions in Jesus’ final days best exemplify her commitment.
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