Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe

We are halfway through the first quarter of 2025 – how time flies! Not long ago, many of us set New Year’s resolutions – and some of these may already feel out of reach. While in our hearts and minds, we recognize that lasting change requires commitment, practice and intentionality, we also need inspiration to keep us hopeful, motivated and engaged. It takes faith. Four of our friars recently shared how combining faith and fitness has strengthened their relationship with God and their commitment to a healthier lifestyle. https://bit.ly/40yMjOh

End of the year is always a great time for reflection. We reflect back and celebrate the small wins and the big wins. Our province went through many changes this year and this video is a reflection of the collaboration and fraternity we cultivated in 2024. We look forward to what the Lord has in store for us in 2025. Please pray for us as we continue our work as friars minor. https://bit.ly/3P7ptqk

Stay abreast of the latest news and ministries of the Franciscan Friars. Our November newsletter will be out in a couple of weeks. Sign up for Franciscan Insights! https://bit.ly/4hedILB

From Oct. 10 to 11, 2024, Siena College will host the Earth’s Cry, Humanity’s Call symposium. The three friars who work at Laudato Si’ Center for Integral Ecology at Siena College — Br. Michael Perry, OFM, Br. Jimmy Kernan, OFM, and Br. Jacek Orzechowski, OFM — are organizing this two-day event with the heartening support of the local fraternity and in close collaboration with Siena faculty, student groups and its administration. https://bit.ly/4erKSoL

Br. Jim Bok, OFM, never intended to be a missionary, but God had other plans. The 16 years he spent in Jamaica speak to the joy that comes from accepting God’s will for us. He's a great example of faith and trust. We can all apply it to our lives and careers. https://bit.ly/3MWw060

Don't forget to watch the latest episode of "Hold Back Nothing"! Br. Tyler Harris, OFM and Br. Tony Luevano, OFM talk about the importance of taking the time to slow down and attune our hearts, minds and souls to the people and situations we encounter in order to be attentive to God’s presence in our lives and what God is stirring within us. https://lnkd.in/eNxYHfYH

Friars from our province—Brothers Jacek Orzechowski, OFM, Michael Perry, OFM, and Jimmy Kernan, OFM—work at the Laudato Si’ Center for Integral Ecology at Siena College in Loudonville, N.Y., and have led the organization of 'Earth’s Cry, Humanity’s Call: A Symposium on Integral Ecology' in collaboration with Siena College, its staff, and students. Br. Michael Perry, director of the center, explains how the idea for a symposium came from the need to talk about the issues of peace and war, especially the war between Russia and Ukraine. The symposium will take place Oct. 10-11 at Siena College in Loudonville. https://bit.ly/3TKCOYm

In what way is God calling you to create space to bring your whole self to Him? Br. Tony Luevano’s experiences as a chaplain gave him the opportunity to reflect on the Eucharistic call to bring our whole selves to God. That contemplative spirituality greatly influences his approach to ministry at St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood. https://lnkd.in/eNxYHfYH

Looking for a better way to fit prayer into your schedule during the school year? It is not easy. School schedules are often much busier than summer vacation. Finding time to pray can be a challenge, whether it be during the school year or if you have a full-time career. We asked four Franciscan friars for practical advice on making time for prayer when school starts. Here is what they had to say. https://bit.ly/3ZCvBxn

Your hobby, interest, passions, or career can meet with your faith. In the heart of Southern California, home of sun-kissed beaches and sprawling cityscapes, a Franciscan friar is waging a quiet yet determined battle against environmental degradation. An ecologist and friar, Br. James Lockman, OFM, is on a lifelong mission to heal the Earth and preserve God’s creation, one acre at a time, with science and his Catholic faith. https://bit.ly/4ebPXlg