“While you are proclaiming peace with your lips,
be careful to have it more fully in your heart.”
— Francis of Assisi
“All the darkness
in the world cannot extinguish the light
of a single candle.”
— Francis of Assisi
For most people, the Feast of St. Francis may slip silently by each October 4 without much notice. It is one of the most important days of the year for our Franciscan religious community, a time of special prayer and ceremony. While current circumstances may limit how we observe the annual feastday, those same circumstances do allow for deeper reflection on Francis’ message and how we can practice it year round.
“Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received — only what you have given; a full heart, enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and courage.”
— Francis of Assisi
Oct. 5 Program Invites ‘Simple’ Connection
Francis lived a simple life, counter-cultural to the message of today’s society, which tells us that life can only be complete when we focus on individual needs, comfort, and the quantity of our possessions. “Simplicity,” says Sister Marguerite Stewart, “leads us to instead center our focus on the Giver of all good gifts and to follow in His footprints.”
 
Learn how to simplify when you join Sister Marguerite for Simply Prayer: To Follow in His Footprints at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, October 5. The program will meet in person at St. Francis Center for Renewal, as well as online through Zoom. Freewill offerings are accepted.
Sisters Support Catholic
Relief Efforts in Haiti
Our Sisters followed in Francis’ footsteps in a very tangible way recently by supporting Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in its mission to help the people of Haiti. Already batting storms and economic hardship, the country was devastated by a massive earthquake in August, killing more than 2,000 people and leaving countless more homeless.
 
A collection among our Sisters and a matching donation on behalf of our religious community totaled $3,500. CRS puts the funds to work immediately on the ground by helping those who lost their homes. “Our donation meets only a small fraction of Haiti’s needs,” says Sister Marian Sgriccia, provincial minister. “But if even one family sees some relief, it is our blessing and calling to offer what we can.”
A Franciscan Prayer
for Our Beloved Pets
Your goodness is turned upon every living thing and Your grace flows to all Your creatures. From our souls to theirs goodness flows, touching each of us with the reflection of Your love.

Grant to our special animal companions long and healthy lives. Give them good relationships with us, and if You see fit to take them from us, help us to understand that they are not gone from us, but only drawing closer to You.

Grant our prayer through the intercession of good St. Francis of Assisi, who honored You through all Your creatures. Give him the power to watch over our animal friends until they are safely with You in eternity, where we someday hope to join them in giving You honor forever. Amen.
Exploring Social Justice & Catholicism
Our St. Francis Center for Renewal in Bethlehem, Pa., is hosting a special Catholic Social Teaching Series this fall that explores the Church’s standing on a handful of pressing social justice issues. You need not live nearby to participate, as the programs can be attended in person or online. To register for any or all of the remaining Monday evening sessions, click here.
Care for
God's Creation
OCTOBER 4
Option for the
Poor & Vulnerable
OCTOBER 11
Life & Dignity of
the Human Person
OCTOBER 18