This presentation invites you on a journey of deep reflection and spiritual renewal, exploring the contemplative dimensions of Lent within the Franciscan tradition. We will delve into six key themes, drawing inspiration from the lives and writings of Franciscan mystics, illuminating the path to a more profound understanding of faith and transformation.

March 4th: Compassion – Darleen Pryds (FST and Franciscan Media)

The Franciscan spirit is rooted in compassion, a deep understanding and shared experience of the suffering of others and ourselves. St. Francis, known for his love of all creation, embraced the suffering of the marginalized and the sick. His example and that of many lay practitioners, such as Lady Jacoba, call us to step outside of ourselves and cultivate empathy for those in need, recognizing the shared humanity that connects us all.

March 11th: Recollection and Reflection – Charlie Brown (The Casa)

Lent is a season of turning inward, a time to pause and reflect on our lives and our relationship with God. Franciscan mystics like St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare of Assisi emphasized the importance of solitude and quiet contemplation as pathways to deeper connection with the divine. They understood that true conversion begins with a profound encounter with the truth of our hearts.

March 18th: Forgiveness – Margaret Riley (San Damiano)

The Franciscan tradition emphasizes the boundless love and mercy of God, reflected in the life of Christ. This calls us to extend forgiveness to ourselves and others, recognizing that we are all flawed and in need of grace. St. Bonaventure, in his writings, encourages us to embrace humility and compassion, acknowledging our own need for forgiveness as a way to open our hearts to the healing power of God’s love.

March 25th: Metanoia – Kathleen Flanagan (Franciscan Ministries)

Metanoia, a Greek word for “change of mind,” lies at the heart of the Lenten journey. It signifies a profound shift in perspective and a turning away from self-centeredness and toward a life of authentic love and service. Franciscan mystics understood that this transformation is not just a superficial change but a radical shift in our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

April 1st: Penance of the Heart – Michael Cunningham (San Damiano)

The Franciscan tradition emphasizes the “penance of the heart,” a deeper form of repentance that transcends outward acts of self-denial. This involves a transformation of the inner life, a turning away from sin and embracing a life of love and service. St. Clare, through her example of poverty and humility, demonstrated the power of inner transformation that leads to a life of genuine compassion and service.

April 8th: Reconciliation – Laura Chun (Mission Integration/Franciscan Ministries/Secular Franciscans)

Lent is a time of reconciliation, a process of mending broken relationships both with ourselves and with others. The Franciscan mystics emphasized the transformative power of confession and repentance, seeking to heal wounds and restore wholeness. John Duns Scotus, a Franciscan philosopher, emphasized the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoring harmony within the community of faith.