Franciscan Federation

“More than words, it is this joy that evangelizes.” – Pope Leo XIV What if St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi walked onto a college campus today? They would recognize much of what young people are experiencing—the search for identity, loneliness hidden behind social media, anxiety about the future,… Continue Reading Young Hearts, Timeless Mission: Shaping Franciscan Month 2026

I am Deborah Lockwood, a Franciscan Sister from Redwood City, California, and began my term on the Franciscan Federation Board in August, 2026.  What is this new beginning for me? There is a story in Chapter XI of the Fioretti that tells of Masseo, twirling like a child as instructed,… Continue Reading New Board Member Profile: Twirling Forward with Sr. Deborah Lockwood

Originally published by the Franciscan Network for Migrants St. Francis is attributed to having said, “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” While he never probably said this, I think it’s a good approach to taking action in a situation that… Continue Reading The Power of the Network

by Ken Thomas I had the privilege last month of visiting Rimini for the 47th Meeting for Friendship Among Peoples, held each August on Italy’s Adriatic coast. Little known in this country, the Meeting has drawn crowds since 1980: a week-long encounter of faith and culture — talks, exhibits, performances,… Continue Reading Meeting Rimini: Encounter, Friendship, and Unity

by Julianne Wallace As many of you know, the Franciscan Federation is a fully remote organization. Most of our meetings, planning sessions, and daily encounters happen over Zoom. There is much to appreciate about this reality: it is convenient, cost-effective, and allows us to work closely with people across the… Continue Reading The Grace of Gathering