Franciscan Spirituality

Father M.J. Groark: A Friar for Broken People

As the nation battles an opioid crisis, Father M.J. Groark shares his story in hopes of showing others a path to recovery and redemption.

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Reflections on the Stigmata of St. Francis

The Greek word stigma means “a scar left by a hot iron: brand,” according to Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (Eleventh Edition). Stigmata—the plural form of the same Greek word—can also mean “bodily marks resembling the wounds of the crucified Christ.”
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statue of St. Padre Pio

My Visit to Padre Pio’s Tomb

My visit to Padre Pio's tomb deepened my appreciation for his life.
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Notes from a Friar: Is it a Sin to Worry?

We should remember to use the experience of worry to trigger a prayer in our hearts. That will turn a negative into a positive.
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woman with eyes open | Photo by Eric Ward on Unsplash

The God We Recognize

If we think we loved each other while on earth, there are no words to describe the perfect love we will have for one another in eternity.
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Catholic pilgrim | Rome, Italy | Photo by Kévin et Laurianne Langlais on Unsplash

Roamin’ Catholic: Always a Pilgrim

Wandering the streets of Rome, the Franciscan spirit is alive. It breathes. We pilgrims inhale deeply.
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The Spiritual Perks of Volunteering

Studies cite the physical, mental, and social benefits of volunteering—three ingredients to overall wellness.
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