Two days ago, I received a text from someone dear to me expressing support for an upcoming U.S. effort to gather up and deport immigrants and asylum seekers. To say I was disappointed and saddened would be an understatement. I wondered how—or even if—I should respond. Yet in Detroit, I hear that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is already moving through neighborhoods, knocking on doors.
Finding Hope in Franciscan Wisdom
Yesterday morning, I opened my email and found a message from my Franciscan sister in Waco, Texas. She is a member of the Order of Ecumenical Franciscans (OEF) and the editor of Hunger News & Hope. The Winter 2024 edition arrived in my inbox just in time. This edition offered a fresh perspective and gave me a renewed sense of hope.
Addressing Misconceptions
I feel compelled to address what I believe is a profound misreading. Many Catholics misunderstand what is happening in our country. Some refuse to accept it. Others are okay with it.
My friend claims that the government’s efforts to deport undocumented immigrants “target only those who have committed crimes.” Unfortunately, this is not correct. Many hardworking families, children, and individuals are at risk.
A Resource for Understanding
That is why I’m sharing Hunger News & Hope with you. This publication offers insight into issues of hunger, poverty, immigration, and social justice.
Call to Action
I invite you to:
Read the latest edition of Hunger News & Hope
Consider signing up for future editions
Engage in conversation
The Church’s Position
Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso, the chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Committee on Migration, strongly criticized President Trump’s recent executive orders on immigration. He described these orders as “contrary to the moral law” and expressed concern for vulnerable families and children.
Concluding Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you find it helpful and thought-provoking. It can inspire us all to pursue a more just and loving path.
This article explores the Franciscan perspective of Christmas as a call for humility and solidarity with the marginalized, rooted in St. Francis of Assisi’s teachings. The Nativity emphasizes shared values across faiths, advocating for compassion and justice, particularly for the poor. It urges all to embody these principles in action during the Christmas season.
By Mike Carsten OFS
Introduction
Through a Franciscan lens, Christmas is more than a celebration of Christ’s birth—it is a profound call to embody divine humility and solidarity with the marginalized. St. Francis of Assisi’s timeless spirituality resonates within Christianity and offers a bridge for ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue. The story of Greccio and the Nativity invites people of all traditions to reflect on the shared values of simplicity, humility, and care for the vulnerable. This article explores the Franciscan approach to Christmas, enriched by its connection to a preferential option for the poor, drawing insights from interfaith values and the transformative power of compassion.
The Greccio Nativity: A Universal Message of Humility
St. Francis of Assisi’s creation of the first Nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223 transcends its Christian origins. In staging the birth of Christ amidst a humble manger with livestock, Francis sought to awaken a profound sense of shared humanity. This act emphasized that God chose to enter the world not through power or wealth but in utter simplicity and poverty. For Francis, the manger was not just a Christian symbol—it was a universal emblem of humility and the dignity inherent in all life (Thomas of Celano, First Life of St. Francis).
The Greccio reenactment invites reflection across faith traditions. In Judaism, humility is extolled as a central virtue (Proverbs 22:4), while Islam emphasizes care for the vulnerable and an egalitarian view of humanity (Qur’an 49:13). Likewise, Buddhist teachings on simplicity and detachment from materialism align with Francis’s message of Christ’s humble birth (Buddha’s Dhammapada). Focusing on shared values, the Nativity scene becomes a space where ecumenical and inter-religious communities can gather in solidarity and dialogue.
A Preferential Option for the Poor
At its heart, the Christmas story aligns with a “preferential option for the poor”—a principle that prioritizes the needs of society’s most vulnerable. The birth of Christ in a manger speaks powerfully to God’s identification with the marginalized. Francis’s life and teachings echoed this commitment, as he chose to live among the poor, serving them with humility and love (Bonaventure, Major Life of St. Francis).
In today’s world, this message remains urgent. Whether advocating for economic justice, addressing systemic inequality, or extending care to those displaced by conflict, the Nativity invites us to engage in transformative action. The Greccio Nativity was not merely a reenactment—it was a call to see the face of God in the poor and to respond with compassion and justice (Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti).
The Altar: A Place of Rebirth and Solidarity
The Franciscan tradition connects the manger to the altar, highlighting the Eucharist as the community’s perpetual rebirth of Christ. The altar, adorned with the Nativity scene during Christmas, symbolizes the unity of divine love and human dignity. This connection challenges believers to embody Christ’s humility and extend it through acts of justice and mercy (Springer Link: Theological Reflections on Franciscan Traditions).
In this light, the Eucharist becomes not just a sacred ritual but a reminder to address the pressing needs of our world. For Francis, celebrating Mass over the manger was a bold declaration that Christ is present wherever people strive to uplift the poor and heal the broken. This message transcends denominational boundaries, inviting all who seek justice to find common ground.
Interfaith Reflections on Poverty and Justice
The Nativity story resonates with the ethical teachings of many faith traditions. In Judaism, the concept of tikkun olam (repairing the world) calls for addressing poverty and inequality (Mishnah Avot 2:21). Islam’s zakat (charitable giving) underscores the obligation to care for the poor (Qur’an 2:177), while Hinduism’s principle of dāna emphasizes selfless giving (Bhagavad Gita 17:20). These shared commitments to justice and compassion echo Francis’s vision of Christmas as a time for humility and service.
Modern interfaith efforts have embraced these shared values. Pope Francis’s encyclical Fratelli Tutti calls for global solidarity and dialogue, urging people of all faiths to unite in caring for the vulnerable (Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti). This vision aligns seamlessly with St. Francis’s teachings, making the Nativity a powerful symbol of unity in diversity.
The Call to Action
Christmas is not merely a historical event but an ongoing invitation to embody divine love and solidarity with the poor. The Nativity challenges us to examine our lives and communities, asking how to make a “preferential option for the poor a reality.” Whether through advocacy, service, or interfaith collaboration, we are called to reflect the humility of the manger in our actions.
Conclusion
From this Franciscans perspective, Christmas celebrates humility, justice, and solidarity. The Nativity at Greccio offers a universal message that transcends religious boundaries, calling us to embrace a “preferential option for the poor” and to build a more compassionate world. As we gather around the altar or reflect on the manger, may we be inspired to act with humility and love, drawing strength from the shared values that unite humanity.
May the peace and justice of Christ’s birth guide us all this Christmas season.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to all people of goodwill.”
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, held annually from January 18 to January 25, invites global Christians to pray for unity. With themes focusing on justice and love, the Franciscan tradition emphasizes humility and reconciliation. The Joint Committee on Franciscan Unity promotes dialogue and collaboration among Franciscans, aiming for healing and inclusivity.
By Mike Carsten OFS
As Franciscans, we are called to live out the Gospel in humility, simplicity, and love for all creation. This spirit is critical during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This annual event invites Christians worldwide to join in prayer and reflection for the unity of all believers in Christ.
Dates and Themes
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is observed from January 18 to January 25 each year. These dates were chosen to coincide with the feasts of the Confession of Saint Peter (January 18) and the Conversion of Saint Paul (January 25), symbolizing the unity and mission of the Church.
2024 Theme: “Do Good; Seek Justice” (Isaiah 1:17). This theme calls us to reflect on our actions and attitudes towards justice, mercy, and reconciliation, echoing the Franciscan commitment to peace and social justice.
2025 Theme: “Abide in My Love… You Shall Bear Much Fruit” (John 15:5-9). This theme emphasizes the importance of remaining in Christ’s love to bear the fruits of unity and peace in our communities and the world.
Historical Background
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was first proposed in 1908 by Father Paul Wattson, an Anglican priest who later became a Catholic. Since then, it has grown into a global ecumenical movement supported by the World Council of Churches and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.
Franciscan Participation
As Franciscans, we participate this week with a deep sense of our charism. Our founder, Saint Francis of Assisi, was a man of peace and reconciliation. His encounter with the Sultan during the Fifth Crusade is a powerful example of dialogue and mutual respect. Inspired by his example, we pray, dialogue, and act to promote unity among Christians and peace.
A Call for Healing Within Catholicism
In addition to fostering unity among different Christian denominations, there is a pressing need within Catholicism to bridge divides and bring healing to our polarized family. Pope Francis reminds us, “To understand one another, and to grow in charity and truth, we need to pause, to accept and listen to one another. In this way we already begin to experience unity”[1]. The Franciscan spirit of humility, dialogue, and reconciliation can guide us in addressing internal conflicts and fostering a more inclusive and compassionate Church. By embracing our shared faith and focusing on the love of Christ, we can work towards healing wounds and building a stronger, more united Catholic community.
Recognizing and Promoting Unity Within the Franciscan Family
It is also essential to recognize and celebrate the contributions of non-Catholic members of the Franciscan family. The Third Order Society of St. Francis (TSSF), the Order of Ecumenical Franciscans (OEF), and the Order of Lutheran Franciscans (OLF) all embody the Franciscan charism uniquely. Their commitment to living out the values of Saint Francis enriches the broader Christian community and strengthens our collective witness to the Gospel. Pope Francis encourages us, “Unity happens when we walk together”[2]. Let us walk together with our non-Catholic Franciscan brothers and sisters, united in our shared mission of peace, justice, and reconciliation.
The Joint Committee on Franciscan Unity, established in 2004, plays a crucial role in fostering this unity. This committee includes representatives from the Order of Secular Franciscans (OFS), the Third Order Society of St. Francis (TSSF), and the Order of Ecumenical Franciscans (OEF). The committee’s mission is to bear witness to the essential unity of the Church by working towards Franciscan unity in all its expressions[3].
The Joint Committee has organized numerous conferences and initiatives to bring together Franciscans from different traditions. These events focus on shared Franciscan principles and promote dialogue, understanding, and collaboration. By highlighting common values and fostering mutual respect, the committee helps to strengthen the bonds within the Franciscan family and advance the cause of Christian unity.
Promoting Unity Among All Franciscans
Promoting unity among all Franciscans, regardless of their specific traditions or affiliations, involves several key actions and attitudes:
Embrace Common Values: Focus on the core Franciscan values that unite all branches of the Franciscan family, such as humility, simplicity, peace, and care for creation. These shared values can serve as a foundation for unity.
Encourage Dialogue and Collaboration: Create opportunities for dialogue and collaboration among different Franciscan groups. This can include joint prayer services, retreats, and social justice initiatives. Open and respectful communication helps build mutual understanding and trust.
Celebrate Diversity: Recognize and celebrate the diversity within the Franciscan family. Each branch brings unique perspectives and gifts that enrich the whole. We can foster a more inclusive and harmonious community by appreciating these differences.
Shared Formation Programs: Develop shared formation programs that unite members from different Franciscan traditions. These programs can focus on Franciscan spirituality, history, and mission, helping to build a sense of shared identity and purpose.
Joint Social and Environmental Initiatives: Collaborate on social and environmental projects that reflect Franciscan values. Working together on common causes, such as poverty alleviation, peacebuilding, and environmental stewardship, can strengthen bonds and demonstrate unity in action.
Regular Communication: Regularly communicate through newsletters, social media, and other platforms. Sharing news, stories, and reflections from different Franciscan communities can help keep everyone connected and informed.
Prayer for Unity: Incorporate prayers for unity into personal and communal prayer practices. Asking for God’s guidance and blessing on efforts to promote unity can be a powerful way to keep this goal at the forefront of our minds and hearts.
Support from Leadership: Encourage leaders within the Franciscan family to actively promote unity. Their support and example can inspire others to work towards greater collaboration and understanding.
Educational Resources: Develop and share resources highlighting Franciscans’ common heritage and mission. This can include books, articles, and online courses that explore the life and teachings of Saint Francis and the Franciscan tradition.
Annual Gatherings: Organize gatherings or conferences that bring Franciscans from different branches together. These events can provide opportunities for learning, fellowship, and mutual support.
Catholic Church’s Teaching on Christian Unity
The Catholic Church’s teaching on Christian unity can be found in several key documents:
Unitatis Redintegratio (1964): This decree from the Second Vatican Council emphasizes the importance of ecumenism and the Church’s commitment to Christian unity. It states, “The restoration of unity among all Christians is one of the principal concerns of the Second Vatican Council”[4].
Ut Unum Sint (1995): Pope St. John Paul II’s encyclical on ecumenism reiterates the Church’s dedication to the ecumenical movement. He writes, “The Catholic Church embraces with hope the commitment to ecumenism as a duty of the Christian conscience enlightened by faith and guided by love”[5].
The Bishop and Christian Unity: An Ecumenical Vademecum (2020): This document from the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity provides bishops guidelines for promoting Christian unity. It highlights the bishop’s role in fostering ecumenism and states, “The bishop’s ecumenical engagement is not an optional dimension of his ministry but a duty and obligation”[6].
Conclusion
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is a time for us to unite as one body in Christ, seeking to overcome divisions and build a world of justice and peace. As Franciscans, let us embrace this opportunity with the same fervor and humility that characterized Saint Francis, working tirelessly for the unity and well-being of all God’s children. Pope Francis encourages us, “Unity happens when we walk together”[2]. Let us take this journey together, inspired by the love of Christ and the example of Saint Francis.
May this week be a blessed time of reflection, prayer, and action for all who seek the unity of Christ’s followers.
The Franciscan Action Network (FAN) is a collective that unites the Franciscan Family to address social and environmental issues through advocacy rooted in Gospel and Franciscan values. Since its founding in 2007, FAN has empowered Secular Franciscans to engage in advocacy, emphasizing justice, peace, and ecological stewardship amidst political polarization.
The Franciscan Action Network (FAN) emerges as a formidable catalyst uniting the expansive Franciscan Family to confront our era’s intricate social and environmental dilemmas. Grounded in the principles of the Gospel and illuminated by the teachings of St. Francis and St. Clare, FAN is an intersection of faith and active advocacy, championing causes like social equity, ecological stewardship, and safeguarding human dignity.
For Secular Franciscans (OFS) in the United States, including regions such as Divine Mercy, FAN offers a tangible pathway to embodying their Gospel mission amidst societal fragmentation.
This exploration delves into FAN’s history, ongoing initiatives, and political engagements. It explains why the Secular Franciscan Order-USA and Divine Mercy Region must reinvigorate their allegiance to this pivotal movement.
Defining the Franciscan Action Network
The Franciscan Action Network is a spiritually anchored advocacy collective that fosters justice, peace, and environmental care. Founded in 2007, FAN emerged from a profound need to unify the Franciscan Family—friars, sisters, secular Franciscans, and laity—around addressing critical societal quandaries.
Its mission involves transforming the Franciscan charism into actionable initiatives deeply aligned with Catholic Social Teaching and Gospel tenets. FAN is a conduit for collaborative efforts, equipping its members with strategic resources, platforms, and opportunities to effect meaningful change.
Strategic Placement of FAN
FAN’s epicenter is strategically positioned near Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. This locale enables FAN to engage directly with policymakers, advocacy networks, and legislative frameworks. By operating from this nucleus of influence, FAN amplifies the Franciscan voice within pivotal national dialogues.
FAN’s Engagement with Political Authorities
FAN’s interaction with the political sphere constitutes a cornerstone of its mission. It employs lobbying, advocacy, and public mobilization to infuse Gospel ethics into policymaking.
Cultivating Relationships with Policymakers FAN nurtures respectful and collaborative alliances with legislators across ideological spectrums, appealing to their intrinsic moral and ethical compass. This bipartisan strategy ensures that FAN’s ethos resonates broadly.
Advocacy Events Through annual Advocacy Days, FAN invites Franciscans to interact with elected representatives and voice concerns on pivotal issues like climate justice, immigration reform, and economic inequality.
Policy Contributions FAN articulates the Franciscan ethos through comprehensive policy briefs and legislative recommendations, providing ethical roadmaps grounded in Catholic Social Teaching.
Coalition Synergy Collaborating with other faith-based and secular coalitions, FAN magnifies its impact by uniting efforts toward shared objectives.
Empowering Advocates FAN equips its members through educational resources—workshops, toolkits, and webinars—instilling confidence and proficiency in advocacy efforts.
Historical Genesis of FAN
The Founding Aspiration Established in 2007, FAN sought to unify the Franciscan commitment to justice and peace by providing an organized platform to voice their Gospel-centered concerns in public discourse.
Early Achievements FAN’s initial campaigns—championing comprehensive immigration reform, combatting poverty, and safeguarding the environment—illustrated its capacity to embody Franciscan values within tangible societal actions.
FAN’s Contemporary Role for Secular Franciscans
Embodying the Franciscan Spirit FAN offers Secular Franciscans a concrete avenue to fulfill their Rule, particularly the mandate to spearhead efforts promoting justice. Members enact their Gospel vocation by engaging with FAN to address societal crises.
Advocacy Training and Resources FAN’s extensive repository of advocacy tools, webinars, and materials empowers Secular Franciscans to champion their causes effectively.
Bridging Political Rifts In an increasingly divided sociopolitical landscape, FAN’s Gospel-rooted ethos provides a cohesive foundation transcending political affiliations, uniting Franciscans around justice and compassion.
The Imperative of Supporting FAN
Confronting Pressing Challenges Addressing critical global crises such as environmental degradation, systemic poverty, and social inequities necessitates a coordinated Franciscan response. FAN offers the structure and expertise essential for these efforts.
Reclaiming the Prophetic Legacy Through FAN, Secular Franciscans can embody St. Francis’s radical vision, advocating for the marginalized and championing justice as a testament to their faith.
Practical Steps to Renew Support
Financial Backing Sustained funding underpins FAN’s mission. Local and regional fraternities can allocate budgetary support or organize fundraisers to bolster FAN’s initiatives.
Active Participation Secular Franciscans can engage directly by attending FAN events, hosting educational sessions, or spearheading local advocacy campaigns.
Fostering Collaborative Ties Regions like Divine Mercy can formalize partnerships with FAN, designating liaisons to foster communication and coordinate mutual efforts.
Navigating Challenges
Overcoming Political Polarization With many U.S. Catholics influenced by partisan dynamics, FAN’s nonpartisan commitment offers a model for uniting diverse perspectives under the common goal of Gospel-centered justice.
Raising Awareness Informational campaigns—via newsletters, fraternity presentations, or guest appearances by FAN representatives—can amplify understanding of FAN’s mission.
Conclusion
The Franciscan Action Network is a luminous beacon amidst societal fractures, embodying justice, peace, and care for creation—the essence of Franciscan spirituality. For Secular Franciscans, recommitting to FAN profoundly expresses their Gospel mandate.
The Secular Franciscan Order-USA and Divine Mercy Region can magnify their influence, deepen their dedication to justice, and honor St. Francis’s transformative legacy by re-establishing their partnership with FAN. Now is the time to act decisively, bringing the light of the Gospel into the shadows of modern society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FAN? FAN is a Franciscan-inspired advocacy network prioritizing justice, peace, and environmental care.
Where is FAN located? FAN operates from Washington, D.C., strategically near Capitol Hill.
How does FAN engage politically? FAN integrates Gospel values into legislative efforts through lobbying, Advocacy Days, policy proposals, and coalition partnerships.
Why is FAN significant for Secular Franciscans? FAN enables Secular Franciscans to fulfill their Rule by providing platforms for advocacy aligned with Franciscan principles.
How can Secular Franciscans support FAN? By offering financial aid, participating in initiatives, and raising awareness within their fraternities.
Vatican II, Secular Franciscanism, and Contemporary Dilemmas
Emerging from the shadows of Vatican II, my relationship with the Catholic faith has been a profound confluence of revelation and introspection. The Council, which boldly championed harmonizing tradition with the contemporary pulse, laid the foundation of my early spiritual encounters. It was a chapter steeped in renewal, with the Church seemingly embracing a more expansive and empathetic vision.
As I matured, my devotion pulled me towards the Secular Franciscan Order. The Franciscan path, with its heart anchored in humility, simplicity, and a reverence for creation, struck a resonant chord in me. It provided a spiritual sanctuary aligned with the ethos of Christ’s teachings. Yet, this path has not been devoid of turbulence, especially in an era where Catholic fundamentalism and Christian nationalism cast long shadows across the landscape of the US Catholic Church.
Vatican II: A Turning Point of Renewal
The Second Vatican Council remains a pivotal watershed in Catholic history, an era when the Church sought to engage with the evolving world rather than retreat. The reforms it initiated were profound, forever altering the Church’s posture:
The introduction of vernacular languages into the Mass.
Greater involvement of laypeople within the sacred liturgy.
A renewed pursuit of social justice and interfaith harmony.
For those of us nurtured in this post-Vatican II environment, the Church felt alive—an entity that was evolving and adaptive to the needs of its congregants and the wider world. It was a time when faith and reason engaged in a harmonious dialogue, fueling a spirit of optimism and inclusivity.
Walking the Franciscan Path
My steps naturally led me to embrace the Secular Franciscan life, a call to embody the Gospel in the tapestry of everyday existence. St. Francis of Assisi’s teachings, with his deep love for all creatures and unwavering commitment to justice and peace, offered a compelling blueprint for holiness.
In this path, I discovered a community of like-minded souls bonded by a shared pursuit of simplicity and compassion. Together, we worked to manifest our faith through charity, stewardship of the environment, and advocacy for the disenfranchised. This collective pursuit of purpose fortified my spiritual journey, anchoring me in knowing that our faith could be lived out tangibly in the world.
The Rise of Rigidity: Fundamentalism and Nationalism
Yet, in recent times, the face of the US Catholic Church has morphed into something dissonant. The rise of Catholic fundamentalism and Christian nationalism has introduced discord into my spiritual path. These movements, steeped in rigid dogmatism and often entwined with political fervor, stand in stark opposition to the inclusive, compassionate spirit of Vatican II and the Franciscan way.
Catholic fundamentalism clings to a stringent interpretation of tradition, often stifling dialogue and critical reflection. This rigidity creates an environment where dissent is unwelcome, and those who question or seek broader interpretations of faith are marginalized.
Christian nationalism, on the other hand, entwines faith with national identity, promoting an exclusionary vision of America that distorts the universal message of love and unity that the Church ought to represent. This fusion of religion and politics turns the Church into an instrument of partisan ideologies, undermining its role as a beacon of justice and compassion.
A Beacon of Hope Amidst Trials
Despite the turbulence these movements have introduced into the modern Church, I remain unwavering in my devotion. The values of Vatican II and the Franciscan tradition continue to illuminate my path, reminding me that at the heart of Christianity lies a profound commitment to love, mercy, and service.
In these challenging times, holding fast to these core principles is essential. By nurturing dialogue, embracing the richness of diversity, and championing justice, we can help the Church reflect the transformative message of the Gospel.
While my journey as a child of Vatican II and a Secular Franciscan has been marked by joy and sorrow, I face the future with hope and resilience. Against the rising tide of fundamentalism and nationalism, I find solace in the enduring legacy of Vatican II and the timeless wisdom of St. Francis. These pillars remind me that, ultimately, love will triumph.
