Dear Friends,

Greetings in the name of the Lord from the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Consolation!

Pope Francis calls upon the members of the Roman Catholic Church to prepare for the 2023 Synod on Synodality. What is the meaning of “Synodality?” Friar Bob Roddy in his article, reflects on the significance of “listening” that Pope Francis is emphasizing in the process of “Synodality.” Friar Thomas Fetz shares the importance of listening to both the poor and the earth. They “go hand in hand with one another.”

Synodality is a process of listening and “journeying together.” Friar Mario Serrano writes about the path forward in this time of the dwindling of religious practice. Who are the “nones” and the “dones” among us, and how shall we accompany them? Friar Mario invites us to pray for the “nones” and “dones” and “all who make room for the Spirit of Hope.”

One of the articles of this newsletter is Angie Donahoe’s reflection on walking “hand in hand” as a participant in the “mission of God’s love.” Being present and listening is a sign of love, God’s love. Friar Alberto Bravo writes of the witness of three Conventual Franciscan Martyrs who walked “hand in hand” among the People of God from Peru and Argentina.

We friars will continue to remember you, our dear friends and companions, in our daily prayers and devotions.

May God bless you and fill you with the Peace of our Lord!

Sincerely in Christ, St. Francis, and St. Anthony,

Fr. John Elmer OFM Conv.
Spiritual Director