Preaching
“Preach the gospel always – if necessary use words”.
The sentiment belongs to Francis of Assisi who urged his followers to witness to the good news of the gospel of Jesus in a manner that would allow their neighbors to see and hear the truth of God’s love in simple and direct ways. This concern to announce the gospel in both simple word and humble deed has been at the heart of the Franciscan movement ever since.
In the 16th century – a time of great tumult and anxiety for the western churches – the Capuchin reform of the Franciscan movement gave rise to a renewed commitment to announce the gospel in both word and deed. Whether tending the victims of plague and disease, meeting the needs of the poor and forgotten or preaching to their neighbors, Capuchin friars brought the gospel to life in word and deed.
Capuchin friars of the Province of St. Mary have brought this gospel witness in word and deed to the people of New York, New England and beyond for over 150 years. While grounded in direct ministry to the poor, the friars have also dedicated themselves to speaking in simple, direct and vivid words that help to bring the gospel alive for people living amid the hectic pace and complex world of the 21st century. Our friars have developed a wide expertise in preaching the gospel, reaching a wide variety of audiences. Among these we highlight: Catholic youth, young adults and families; Seniors, catechetical ministers and parish staffs; those afflicted with addictions and involved in 12 step programs; those preparing for marriage and those long married; inner-city, rural and suburban parishes and many others.
If you are planning a parish mission, an Advent or Lenten program, a retreat for youth, adults or parish leaders, days of recollection for adults, faculties, parish leaders, RCIA ministers or others do consider contacting us. We believe we can help you deliver a timely and enlivening word that renews commitment to the gospel of Jesus in these most challenging times.
Lent –Passing Privations or Passion for a Lifetime?
Michael J. Marigliano
“Behold, I am sending you as lambs among wolves.”— Jesus of Nazareth
“The lion and the calf shall lie down together,
but the calf won't get much sleep.”— Woody Allen
Many things might be said about the observance of Lent. I’d suggest the gift of a troubled night’s sleep as good a place as any to start. Calves and lions – and all that.
It’s that time of year when those of us in the Catholic tradition reacquaint ourselves with the taste of tuna fish, haul out the family recipe for macaroni and cheese or spread a couple of slices of bread with some good old-fashioned peanut-butter and jelly. Wait a minute. Perhaps given the current salmonella scare it’s better to shelve that peanut butter thing this year, don’t you think? Just another reminder of the multiple threats we face from unexpected and seemingly innocent quarters – as if we needed yet one more reminder of the call to vigilance. Read more...