Dear Friends,

Welcome to our Vocation Ministry webpages! If this is your first time visiting us, please click here.

HAPPY FEAST of ST. FRANCIS!

On October 4, Franciscans throughout the world celebrate the life of St. Francis. We usually begin the feast by gathering on the evening of October 3 to participate in the Transitus. This is a ritual that remembers the dying process of Francis, one in which he praises God for all of the blessings of his life…the joys as well as the sufferings. It is a moving time of prayer and reflection for all who participate. Most Franciscan parishes and retreat centers have a Transitus, which is open to all people.

We gather together on October 4 not only with other Allegany Franciscans, but with all our Franciscan sisters and brothers, to share prayer, liturgy, and a festive meal. Our affiliates and the women who are discerning religious life with us also join us for this celebration.

St. Francis was a person who was deeply in love with God, and desired to live as Jesus did, to live the Gospel of love. He is someone we all can identify with. He was very human, not perfect! He had suffering and struggles in his life, and found God in the midst of them. He was on a God quest…searching for God and seeking what God wanted him to do with is life. When he heard…he responded.

St. Francis left his followers and the world a number of meaningful reflections, among them:

"My God and My All!"
"Up until now I have done nothing!"
One of Francis' last words to his followers, "I have done what is mine to do. Now go and do the same!"

Do any of his words resonate with you?

Happenings!

~ The week of October 2 has been designated as Peace Week. (Francis' influence on the world.)

~ Our schedule of Come and See Retreats and Days of Discernment are posted here.

~ Our expanded edition of Followers of Francis has been mailed out. If you would like to be included on our list, please email me.

God bless,


P.S. We update our webpage frequently, so please visit us again! We welcome your ideas, suggestions, and questions.

To read previous monthly updates, click here.