October 4th is the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi.  Beyond the “talking to the animals” reputation, Saint Francis sparked a movement of men and women that continues over 800 years later.  Franciscans take all different shapes, sizes, colors, and ministries.  Some live alone, most in community, but all in the charism of St. Francis in service to the poor and disenfranchised.

I was a Conventual Franciscan for 12 years and loved every minute of it.  I met many interesting people and had an opportunity to work all over the world.  I was challenged as well as extremely blessed with opportunity that arose from those challenges.  I remember my vocational journey as if it was yesterday and as I look at a reformed Franciscan community now and see the hopes and possibilities that exist with the great group of guys I am currently in communication with – I see the future of Franciscan life in the 21st century!

To all of my fellow Franciscans, I wish you a happy feast day.  Tomorrow, October 4, 2009, on the Feast of Saint Francis, I will be ordained to the Catholic Priesthood, surrounded by my family and friends.  There is no fuller way to experience the wonders of the Franciscan movement than to be made a servant at His altar.

Pax et Bonum!  Peace and All Good!