St. Anthony Messenger

March 2022

Dear Reader: A Call for Justice

Susan Hines-Brigger

We offer our prayers for all those who are survivors of sex abuse and thank those, like Father Boniface Ramsey, who have used their voices for justice.

What Ramadan Taught Me about Lent

Joe McHugh

An Islamic tradition sheds light on our own season of repentance.

Broken Vessels: Lent as a Doorway to Conversion

Richard B. Patterson, PhD

We all face tragedy and challenges in life. When you make the choice to heal, your spirit is awakened through a nurturing of self and faith.

Father Boniface Ramsey: The Whistleblower

Peter Feuerherd

Father Boniface Ramsey raised red flags about Theodore McCarrick for years before the media and Church leaders took notice. While some call him a hero, he hopes to be remembered first as a good priest.

Five Steps toward Better Communication

Colleen Arnold, MD

The Bible has advice on everything under the sun, even the words we speak. We can use its guidance to forge more peaceful interactions with others.

Spring Awakenings

Christopher Heffron

When we extract ourselves from the noise of the world and quiet our minds for a conversation with God, that is when our hearts should be purest.

Saint Francis would love to pray before the crucifix

Notes from a Friar: St. Francis’ Prayer before the Crucifix

Roch Niemier, OFM

I have often reflected on this prayer, which—as Franciscan scholars attest—is indeed a prayer composed by St. Francis himself. And each time I pray it, I am more and more convinced that it reveals the authentic heart of St. Francis.