Franciscan Tradition and Resources

Tau cross in the sand

Why I Became a Secular Franciscan

St. Francis established three different Orders. The first one is for the friars; the second is for nuns, such as the Poor Clares; and the third is for laypeople.
Read More →

The Canticle of the Creatures

The return to the Portiuncula was by way of Borgo San Sepolcro, Monte Casale, and Citta di Castello.
Read More →
Cross of San Damiano

St. Francis: The Restorer of Churches

About three-quarters of a mile below Assisi stands the little convent of San Damiano.
Read More →
Saint Anthony holds the child jesus

St. Anthony of Padua: Finder, Teacher, Matchmaker, Guide

This friar writes about the popular customs and devotions to St. Anthony.
Read More →
Illustration of Mary and Jesus

The Poverty of Christ

First and before all, Francis wanted to imitate the poverty of Christ. He was not pursuing an abstract ideal.
Read More →
Photo of Padre Pio and the Madona by Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ, via Flickr

Padre Pio and the Madonna

Padre Pio nurtured his love for the Mother of Jesus from the time he was a child. He would go to the church in Pietrelcina to greet and to pray to Our Lady of Graces.
Read More →

Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter​

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