Francis: An Oratorio is a new artistic work by composer Richard Danielpour with a libretto by Sr. Margaret Carney, OSF, created to mark the 800th anniversary of the passing of St. Francis of Assisi.
This 70‑minute staged oratorio highlights pivotal moments in Francis’s life—his love of creation, his commitment to peace, his solidarity with the poor, and his reverence for all people. The world premiere will take place in Buffalo, NY on October 10–11, 2026, in conjunction with the Franciscan Federation and AFCU’s WNY Franciscan Day. Below, Sr. Margaret offers a brief update on the project’s recent developments.
“On June 2, the first full presentation of the oratorio took place at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Los Angeles by the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. The 120‑voice chorus was conducted by Dr. James Bass. Three friars were in attendance. One of them, Fr. Ed McKenzie, OFM, had contributed valuable research on the experience of Francis in war and as a prisoner of war.
Many UCLA faculty members were present. Their excitement and applause were something to experience. One of the most touching aspects of the night was hearing from the students in the chorus how much they loved singing the texts, which focus on peace, the planet, and the poor—central themes of St. Francis and Pope Francis. For many, it seemed to offer a release from the noise of division and violence so prevalent in our society right now.
Dr. Richard Danielpour and I attended a three‑hour rehearsal the night before the concert. The hours dedicated to this project by these UCLA groups were truly an inspiration.
The next stage is preparation for the Buffalo premiere performance, which will also be the site for the Naxos recording. Keep that red circle around the dates: October 10 and 11, 2026.
Please keep actor Claudia Christian in your prayers. She will be the angelic narrator in Buffalo. Recent surgery forced her to cancel her participation in the UCLA concert. She is receiving cancer treatment at present and will be grateful for prayers.
Pax et Bonum!”
Sr. Margaret Carney, OSF
