
St. Francis of Assisi, the humble saint who captured the hearts of our friars and countless souls, continues to inspire us through his unwavering devotion to the poor, to the cause of peace, and to all of creation. His profound message resonates deeply in our world today, reminding us to live lives of simplicity, compassion, and service.
Driven by our unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel message, we rely on the generosity of individuals like you to continue our important work.
Work such as:
Medical aid and support: In Zambia, our overcrowded clinic provides medical care, medication, and health education to those who cannot afford it. The medical team at the clinic contends with limited resources, especially an unreliable supply of electricity, in order to care for those who journey long distances, usually on foot, for help.
Shelter and nourishment: In several U.S. locations, we provide safe places where we assist the homeless and refugees with warm meals and clothing. In partnership with our Secular Franciscan Fraternities and Parishcommunities, we connect the marginalized to resources that are available in their local communities. The friars, along with their lay co-ministers, offer a welcoming and reassuring presence to those who cross their threshold.
Seminary education and the formation of future friars: At Bonaventure College in Lusaka, Zambia, close to 200 young men from the three branches of the Franciscan Order (OFMs, OFM Caps., and OFMConv. [our friars] study, pray and prepare for ministry. This inter-order seminary is unique to Zambia.
This July 11th, we invite you to join us on a transformative journey—a journey marked by 13 Tuesdays of Prayer dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. During this sacred period, we will gather as a community to reflect, pray, and honor the extraordinary life of this great saint. Each Tuesday, we will come together to seek solace in prayer and find inspiration in the timeless wisdom of St. Francis. We will end this journey on October 3rd, Transitus, the celebration of St. Francis’s transition from earthly life to everlasting life as well as the vigil of St. Francis’ feast day.
We are deeply grateful for your continued support of our ministries and truly believe that together, we can spread the message of Christ far and wide. Your financial contributions make a significant difference in allowing us to continue this work. We kindly ask you to consider making a generous contribution to support the invaluable work of the Conventual Franciscan Friars. Your gift, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated and directly impacts the lives of those we serve.
Please click the link below with your prayer intentions. We believe in the power of prayer and the solace it brings to those facing challenges. Your prayer requests will be remembered in our prayers, invoking divine blessings upon you and the intentions you hold dear to your heart.
Together, let us extend the loving embrace of Saint Francis to those who need it most, ensuring that no one is forgotten or left behind. Your generous support can bring healing, hope, and joy to those burdened by poverty and sickness.
Your support will help us continue the essential work of the Conventual Franciscan Friars and ensure that the legacy of St. Francis of Assisi remains alive and vibrant in our world today.
Thank you for your continued generosity, support, and prayers.
May the spirit of St. Francis guide your heart and bless you abundantly.
May the Lord bless you and keep you,
Father John Elmer, OFM Conv.
Spiritual Director
P.S. When you send a gift, you will be helping to spread the loving message of the Gospels that was so central in the life of St. Francis. I thank you … and may God bless you.