sign in sign up
<<
Home , Trappists

FALL 2017 • VOL. 22, NO. 3 The Way of St. Francis

F r a n c i s c a n Formation N o w

THE FRANCISCAN PROVINCE OF SAINT BARBARA The Way of Saint Francis inside FALL 2017, Vol. 22, No. 3 on the cover Franciscan Formation Now (l–r): Friars Sam Nasada, Phillip Polk, and Octavio Cornejo share a laugh while looking at a tablet computer during a recent gathering of friars at St. Elizabeth Friary in Oakland, CA. Phillip, a San Carlos Apache from Arizona, is currently studying theology at the Franciscan School FEATURES DEPARTMENTS of Theology (FST) in Oceanside, CA. Octavio is a student from the Province of Saints Francis and James, Jalisco, who is working at our St. Elizabeth in Oakland. Sam is a native of and a 10 friar profile 4 dear friends recent graduate of FST. Sam shares his formation experience on pages Fruitful Formation: Franciscan 10-13 of this issue. These three young friars represent the dynamism and Milestones. Fr. Vincent Nguyen, OFM 5 by the way diversity of our Franciscan formation today. and Br. Sam Nasada, OFM 6 snapshot 14 franciscan thoughts PHOTO: ©PETER JORDAN PHOTO 2017 8 the word Friar Formation in Transition: R&R Franciscan style, it’s a whole new thing! 9 donor profile Publisher Editorial Team Art Direction and Design Very Reverend David Gaa, OFM Mr. Kevin Murray Paul Tokmakian Graphic Design 16 community profile 18 creative spirit Provincial Minister Father Dan Lackie, OFM Old Mission San Luis Rey: Father Charles Talley, OFM Editor Evangelization and Formation 26 at last Father Dan Lackie, OFM 22 guest essay Contributors Franciscan Spiritual Director Training Sister Mary Jo Chaves, OSF Brother Sam Nasada, OFM Father Joe Schwab, OFM Kathleen Flanagan Darleen Pryds, Ph.D. Father Charles Talley, OFM Program: Franciscan Spiritual Center, Father Dan Lackie, OFM Father Warren Rouse, OFM Linda Whitman, OFS Milwaukie, Oregon

The Way of St. Francis is published by the Franciscan Friars of California, Inc. It is a free magazine to those who provide their time, treasure, and talent to friars in the Province of Saint Barbara. The friars welcome your comments concerning The Way of St. Francis. You can contact the friars at Franciscan Friars of California, Inc., 1500 34th Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601 or via email at [email protected]. 16 The Way of St. Francis is owned and published by The Franciscan Friars of California, Inc. Copyright 2017. The Franciscan Friars of California, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the Franciscan Friars of California, Inc.

Prayer, Fraternity, Joy, Service 18 ❖ 10 The Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara are members of a Roman religious order, from a diversity of backgrounds and cultures, dedicated to serving the poor and promoting justice, peace, care of creation, and reconciliation in the joyful and prophetic spirit of St. . Have a comment or suggestion? Let us know by sending an email to [email protected] www.sbfranciscans.org 2 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 prayer, poetry and song Men’s Retreat dear friends … by the way into personal yearning 10/06–10/08 • Serra Retreat from which to grow a life’s Center, Malibu, CA purpose. Retreat Masters: Sr. Carol SEPTEMBER Cost: $235 single room, $205 Quinlivan, CSJ and Fr. double room. Michael Dougherty, OFM. just out of theology studies, I was privileged to have the More information: Explore the glory of the s a young friar Solemn Profession of Vows A late Father Floyd Lotito as a mentor. Clad in his brown www.sandamiano.org or Kingdom of God within you . of Brother Scott Slattum, 925-837-9141. Cost: $220 double room, robe, Father Floyd was for years a loving sign of OFM $280 single room. Franciscan hospitality at St. Anthony’s Dining Room 09/16 • 10:30am–1pm • Saint Sts. Simon & Jude Annual More information: Mary’s Basilica, Phoenix, AZ in downtown San Francisco. His trademark baseball Fall Festival www.serraretreat.com/re- Br. Scott Slattum will make cap and cheery “Good Morning!” were a calming bit 09/29–10/01 • Sts. Simon & treats or 310-456-6631 his solemn profession of Jude Church, of whimsy at the often-rowdy intersection of Golden vows to the Franciscan Huntington Beach, CA Gate and Jones. In such situations, he would often Order. Join us for this joyous This fun celebration for the celebration. remind me: “The Franciscan way is caught, not taught.” parish and the neighboring More information: While many people in San Francisco and beyond caught the community honors the Feast www.smbphx.org or of St. Francis. Volunteers 2017 flavor of St. Francis from this unique man, I’ve come to see Father Floyd’s 602-354-2100 photo insight as an example of another catchy Franciscan principle: “Never either/ are always needed (and ap- preciated!) for this event. Blessing of The Waves ordan or. Always both/and.” More information: J

09/17 • 9am–2pm • eter In this issue of The Way we hope to show you how the tradition sparked by www.ssj.org or P Huntington Beach Municipal 714-962-3333. Saints Francis and Clare is caught and taught today. Two of our younger Pier, Huntington Beach, CA PHOTO: © friars—Sam Nasada and Vincent Nguyen—are entering new chapters in their Fr. Christian Mondor, OFM, OCTOBER People of Peace: St. Teresa “The Surfing Padre”, will Franciscan journey following graduation and ordination respectively. Two of of Kolkata be joined by other religious our newly appointed formators, Brothers Jeff Macnab and John Gutierrez, are The Transitus of St. Francis 10/21 • 9am–3pm • Franciscan leaders, in this interfaith ser- 10/03 • 7:30pm–8:30pm • Renewal Center, Paradise entering into new phases of their lives as well. At Old Mission San Luis Rey in vice at the beach. San Damiano Retreat Center, Valley, AZ Oceanside, California, the power of good example and prayer (caught), togeth- More information: Danville, CA Fr. Larry Gosselin, OFM www.ssj.org or 714-962-3333 er with study and reflection (taught) are shaping a dynamic center of Celebrate the Transitus of shares his experience Franciscan evangelization under the leadership of Executive Director Kathleen St. Francis to eternal life. meeting and living with St. Franciscan Spirituality More information: Mother Teresa. Learn more Flanagan. The windows of the new conventual church of Our Lady of the Retreat – What Is Yours To www.sandamiano.org or in his book I Have Been Angels at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona will be instru- Do? 925-837-9141. Waiting for You. 09/29–10/01 • San Damiano ments imparting Franciscan theological perspectives as well—to both commu- More information: Retreat Center, Danville, CA nity members and pilgrims alike. They are intended to catch the eye and heart Friends of St. Francis www.thecasa.org or Presented by: Anne and Center 480-948-7460 as they teach the mind. Sister Mary Jo Chaves and the staff at the Franciscan Terry Symens-Bucher 10/04 • 5:30pm–8:30pm • Spiritual Center in Milwaukie, Oregon, are catching and teaching as well, Sacramental ministries: Fr. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Día de los Muertos Festival Ray Bucher, OFM through their commitment to educating others in spiritual direction. Angels, Los Angeles, CA 10/29 • 10am–5pm • Mission Music leader: Jesse Whether you prefer to be caught or taught—or both!—we hope you find In its eighth year celebrat- San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA Manibusan ing the feast of St. Francis. Celebrate the Feast Day of inspiration in all these stories as you walk, like Father Floyd, along your own The examples of Saints SFC supporters from L.A. to All Souls with altars, food, journey of joy. ❖ Francis and Clare of Assisi Orange County gather for live entertainment, and arts are as relevant today as dinner, drinks, silent auction and crafts. Free admission. they were 800 years ago. Peace and all good! and networking. Parking $5. Participants “weave” expe- More information: More information: Father Dan Lackie, OFM riential exercises from the www.sfcla.org or www.sanluisrey.org or Editor Work to reconnect ritual, 213-747-5347 760-757-3651

ORIGINAL PHOTO: ©Peter Jordan photo 2014

4 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 5 snapshot

I Madonnari Festival May 29, 2017 Old Mission Santa Barbara Photo: Brother Sam Nasada

On Memorial Day weekend every year in Santa Barbara, the plaza of the Old Mission becomes a canvas for street painters at the I Madonnari Festival. The artists use pastels on pavement in the great Italian tradition to create dozens of images. This year’s featured artist, Meredith Morin, a graphic designer living in Santa Barbara and a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, chose to do a 12’ X 16’ piece honoring Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta after reading I Have Been Waiting for You —a personal and spiritual journey with St. Teresa of Kolkata. The book’s author, Father Larry Gosselin, OFM (pictured here) gives the following account of what happened in the encounter captured here at this year’s event: “I was sitting there watching alongside the other woman shown here. After sitting quietly for some time we began to talk. She was also captivated by the work. We spoke and she told me she was Muslim, as was indicated by her head scarf, and that she was a psychiatrist visiting from New York and just happened to come upon the event. We spoke about her work in psychiatry and her faith perspective. We both felt very drawn into the image before us, as it seemed to be drawing us closer to itself and to each other.”

6 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 7 following him seems difficult, don’t be afraid. Trust him, be confident donor profile the word that he is close to you, he is with you and he will give you the peace you are looking for and the strength Step Forward: to live as he would have you do. ” “Gardening” the Mark 10:46ff St. Francis is specific:“The Rule Franciscan Way and Life of the Lesser Brothers is this: By Father Warren Rouse, OFM to observe the Holy Gospel of Our By Linda Whitman, OFS Lord Jesus Christ by living in obedi- he most dramatic moment in an y grandmother had the Tinvestiture ceremony is when ence, without anything of one’s own, M finest flower garden in suit coats are flung into a corner of and in chastity.” (Rule of 1223) Conway, Massachusetts, and the sanctuary and the is These words do not apply just she supplied her local church to vowed ! Observing y, OFM

clothed in the habit of a brother. with flowers all summer long. and

the holy Gospel of Jesus Christ k T

There is a similar incident in I’m not that great with plants ic . D St. Mark’s Gospel (10:46ff) that is is a universal invitation. The but I do love people, so when r important not only for Franciscans Saint is right on target when I stumbled into the Franciscan but for anyone wishing to follow he writes in his Testament: family it just seemed right to PHOTO: ©B the Lord in the spirit of St. Francis: “And I strictly command all my get involved. Getting involved Linda Whitman at Old Mission Santa Barbara. A blind man (Bartimaeus) calls to cleric and lay brothers ... not to place and building community, after Jesus, much to the annoyance of any gloss upon the Rule ... saying: all, were values demonstrated to to become a Secular, I realize that others: “Many of the people scolded ‘They should be understood in this me by my family from an early age. seeing Katherine Demny’s Tau him and told him to be quiet. But he way.’ But as the Lord has given me As an adult, I learned from three cross had more of an impact on me shouted even more loudly, ’Son of to speak and write the Rule and women in particular who were in- than the cajoling of all the others. David, have mercy on me!’” these words simply and purely, may strumental in helping me to “grow” The third person who had a “So he threw off his cloak, jumped you understand them simply and my commitment to service as a major influence on my spiritual up, and came to Jesus.” without gloss and observe them Secular Franciscan. In a spiritual development was a fellow parish- First, he dumps his cloak— with a holy activity until the end.” sense, they taught me to “garden” ioner named Viola Valenzuela, or his most valuable possession. With Francis, all are called to the Franciscan way. Vi, as everyone called her. Vi was Remember how the young Francis embrace the Gospel. It’s always In 2004, when I first started homebound at the time and I took stripped off his rich clothes before the same: following Jesus on the attending St. Barbara Parish at Holy Communion to her. During the Bishop? If we want to learn and road and being formed in the Old Mission Santa Barbara, I saw our visits she really shared with me be formed in this same spirit of the Gospel life. But we have the assur- a woman wearing a Tau cross from her heart. I wanted more of blind man and Francis, the process ance of Francis himself, regardless around her neck. I was drawn to the sweetness of her spirituality. I begins with coming to terms with of the spiritual path we choose. it, and wondered why she wore it. still get emotional when I think of whatever obstacles in our lives “And whoever observes these She struck me as approachable— her last days here on earth. In fact, stand between God and ourselves. things, let him be blessed in heaven I later learned that she was also all three women—Katherine, Lyn, Second, after Bartimaeus is with the blessing of the Most High very funny—so one day I asked her and Vi—are now with the Lord. healed, we learn: “‘Go,’ Jesus told Father, and on earth with the blessing about it. Her name was Katherine I tell family and friends, in simple him, ’your faith has made you well.’ At of His Beloved Son with the Most Holy Demny and rather than answer terms, that we Secular Franciscans once he was able to see and followed Spirit, the Paraclete, and all the pow- my question outright, Katherine are a “lay-person group” that fol- Jesus on the road.” Notice: “followed ers of heaven and with all the saints. invited me to come to a meeting of lows the teachings of St. Francis. I Jesus on the road.” And, as far as I can, I, little brother the Secular Franciscans, so I went. always add to my description that A meditation of Francis Francis, your servant, confirm for you, At the meeting I met another St. Francis is more than just the comes to mind: both within and without, this most Secular Franciscan, Lyn Carman, patron saint of animals and the ❖ “If up to now you have kept him holy blessing.” who unlike Katherine, started imme- environment. What is important at a distance, step forward. He diately to recruit me! (If you knew to me is that he was passionate will receive you with open arms. If Father Warren Rouse, OFM, is a former pastor, Lyn, this would come as no sur- about following in Christ’s foot- you have been indifferent, take a teacher, and retreat director, and is the author of prise.) However, when I think of my steps, shown by his reaching out risk; you won’t be disappointed. If Words of Wisdom. He lives at Serra Retreat in final decision to start in formation to the leper. I share that passion. Malibu, California. continued on page 25

8 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 9 friar profile Interestingly, Sam and Vincent both speak of the importance of clinical pastoral education (C.P.E.) in their formation. A months-long program of intense training in a hospital setting, C.P.E. involved them each in rounds of visits to patients followed by group conver-  Father Vincent sations with supervisors and fellow students which included Nguyen, OFM verbatims (word-for-word reports) of selected bedside exchanges. Here, they both agreed, was the place where they were able to hone their listening skills, develop their sense of theological reflec- tion and deepen their shared commitment to “paying attention to life.” But my brothers’ excitement about C.P.E. quickly turned to theological matters of a uniquely Franciscan variety—specifically the significance of the Christian doctrine of the Incarnation—which, for them, formed the intellectual and spiritual backdrop of those bedside encounters with the vulnerable. It became clear that their studies and ministerial internships had supplied both men with a sharp sense of incarnational vision—they had been deeply touched f r a n c i s c a n m i l e st o n e s : f r u i tf u l f o r m a t i o n By Father Dan Lackie, OFM

 Brother Sam PHOTO: ©Peter Jordan photo 2017 Nasada, OFM

o r f r i a r s v i n c e n t n g u y e n a n d s a m n a s a d a — both of the Prov- ince of St. Barbara—this has been a milestone year in their Franciscan journey. For Sam, 2017 marks the completion of studies and graduation from the Franciscan School of Theology in Oceanside, California. For Vincent, this year will be recorded in our Province annals as the year of his ordination to the priesthood, an event that took place at Sts. Simon & Jude Parish, Huntington Beach, California in March. From my perspective, the convergence of these great occasions offers a unique opportunity to glean some reflections from my “milestone brothers.” What do they see at this point in time as the central elements of their preparation and training for minis- try and life as Franciscans? PHOTO: ©Peter Jordan photo 2017

10 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 11 by the impact of God’s love revealed Sam also points out the impor- in the person of Jesus Christ taking tance of liturgy in giving expression on human flesh. Each describes the to the implications of the traces of the mystery of the Incarnation. “Our Sunday celebra- Incarnation in a way that reflects his tion gives us life by bringing us own particular journey of faith. together, but it also propels us For Sam, the Incarnation is that outward to meet the ‘stranger,’ our act of divine love that makes us brothers and sisters whom we are brothers and sisters. “Incarnation called upon to serve.” For himself focuses us on our humanity,” he told personally, says Sam, the challenge me. “It speaks of the care that is due of the Incarnation is that it summons to each person—everyone is unique.” us to treat co-workers, fellow friars, It was through this lens, in fact, that family—everyone, in fact—with the arish P

Sam shaped the final project for his reverent care their God-given dignity de

Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree. deserves. & Ju

During a year of ministry at our For Vincent, the Incarnation imon . S

Franciscan parish in downtown opens us to the “fingerprints of God” ts

Phoenix, he devoted his time to work on all of creation. Not a surprising y OF S

with immigrant families, paying observation, coming from a talented rtes u co careful attention to the changing artist who has spent much energy hoto

demographics of its vibrant multi- on the creation of icons, paintings, P cultural setting. (He entitled the drawings, and small-scale sculptural Father Vincent receives the gift of a special quilt after his ordination. project “Welcoming the Stranger: forms. “When I work with clay and Three Pilgrimages with St. Mary’s create a figure, for example, my Basilica Parish.”) fingerprints are all over it!” he says. “And when I finish a painting,” he doesn’t make sense, and they can’t adds, “there is not a single place accept it.” within the frame that doesn’t con- That said, both Vincent and Sam tain something of my brushstroke.” are friars who are unafraid to take Speaking of the Incarnation in these on the challenges of living out and terms can sometimes be a challenge expressing their Franciscan forma- for Vincent. Some listeners might tion. Vincent’s first years of priest- hear this as an expression of ani- hood will be in service to the parish mism, as if the Spirit of God actually community where he was ordained. “inhabited” one’s natural surround- Sam, a native of Indonesia, will be ings, thus making gods of trees and spending the next year in southern clouds. There are challenges as well Arizona as part of a small commu- in communicating to others that nity of friars serving migrants and y God enters creation with love and local families in conflicted border

heolog that the Incarnation is not contin- areas. Wherever their journeys lead T of gent upon human sin, but rather them, I am sure the Gospel, glowing

chool flows from the primacy of that love with a soft Franciscan light, will be S in Christ which has poured forth leading their way. This year has “from the foundation of the world.” been truly a significant one for our ranciscan

F (cf. Eph. 1:4) This insight, drawn “milestone brothers” ❖ of y specifically from the Franciscan rtes u theological tradition, can also take co people by surprise and spur resis- hoto P tance. Vincent notes: “To some Father Dan Lackie, OFM serves as editor of The Brother Sam at FST graduation, Old Mission San Luis Rey. people in communities where I have Way as part of the Outreach Office of the Province ministered, the Franciscan way of Saint Barbara.

12 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 13 R & R Franciscan-style embrac- John and Jeff come in. This fall, for franciscan thoughts es a fundamental shift in terms of the first time, the OFM branch of the formation process—the educa- the Franciscans in the tion and integration—of new mem- and are joining together bers into our community as vowed to form a single postulancy pro- religious men. It is a shift which gram on the campus of the former

(Opposite page, l to r) Friar Freddie Rodriguez, Michael Lomas, Friar John Gutierrez, and An- tonio Luevano. Michael and Antonio are in the 2017–18 class. (Above, left) Friars Jeff Macnab (l) and Tom West. (Above, right), Friar John Gutierrez.

implies significant changes both in Holy Name College in Silver Spring, approach (revitalization) as well as Maryland. Brother John Gutierrez in organization (restructuring). (St. Barbara Province) is one of four The entry level of Franciscan directors in a team that includes fri- formation is known as postulancy: ars from other parts of the country: Friar Formation in Transition a 10-month residential term in Friars Rommel Perez (Sacred Heart which men learn the essentials of Province), as well as Walter Liss and R&R Franciscan style: It’s a whole new thing! Franciscan identity and commu- Charlie Miller (Holy Name Province). nity living. Emphasis is on growth This year’s class will include 18 and development in one’s iden- men from around the country. By Father Charles Talley, OFM tity as a human, a Christian, and a On the level of novitiate forma- ALL PHOTOS: ©Peter jordan 2017 Franciscan. The second level, the tion, the interprovincial program novitiate year, is a time of more has been in existence and evolv- intense discernment, in which ing over the past 25 years. This R&R. When people see this acronym, they many think: “Oh. Rest & men enter into an intense period year it is making an historic move Recreation. Great! I’m all for it!” But when we friars speak about of prayer, study, service, and ongo- from Burlington, Wisconsin to ing dialog and conversation with the grounds of Old Mission Santa “R&R Franciscan-style” these days, we’re more inclined to think: team members. At the year’s con- Barbara in California. Brother Jeff “Oh. Revitalization & Restructuring.” And many friars, especially clusion, those who have completed Macnab, as Director of , the program make their first pub- is part of a team including Sister Brother John Gutierrez and Brother Jeff Macnab of the St. Barbara lic profession of the vows of pov- Susan Rosenbach SSSF, and Province, are just as likely to add: “Great! I’m all for it!” Both of erty, chastity, and obedience. Friar Michael Blastic (Holy Name In terms of R&R Franciscan-style, Province). Eight men have been these very talented Franciscan formators are slated to play im- then, both postulancy and novitiate accepted for the current term. portant roles in efforts now underway in Silver Spring, Maryland programs are currently undergoing Both Brother John and Brother significant changes, including geo- Jeff, along with their team mem- and in Santa Barbara, California. Here’s the background: graphical ones. This is where Friars bers, bring a wealth of personal continued on page 24

14 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 15 Evangelizing—sharing the his blessing and counsel. The calm community profile Good News—means, above presence and care-filled words of all, being an expression of comfort offered by Father Michael God’s love in all situations. Dallmeier, our Cemetery Chaplain, It happens when a night speak volumes to all who meet him. security guard welcomes a Our individual efforts at evan- late-arriving guest, or when gelization are certainly fruitful, our maintenance staff see but it is when we collaborate that a homeless person carry- we are at our best. FST students ing a heavy load and offers work in the Retreat Center, at the him a ride to the bus stop in Parish and in the Gift Shop. Ariana their golf car. It even hap- Quintero, one of two FST gradu- pens when housekeeping ates the Mission has hired, used her opts for non-toxic, “green” graduate Capstone Project to cre- cleaning products! It’s vis- ate a step-by-step manual for the ible when the gift shop manager Parish on how to provide religious stops to comfort someone buying education to children with special a holy card for a loved one who needs such as autism and deafness. just received a difficult diagnosis, In my opinion, though, being kind, O l d M i s s i o n or when a friar makes a middle-of- peace-loving, hospitable, or humble the-night call to a dying person. It is good, and even Christian, but becomes real when a student at our not necessarily Franciscan. What’s Franciscan School of Theology (FST) the difference? The motivation! To S a n L u i s R e y signs up to teach Religious Ed and live out the Gospel as a Franciscan, finds herself crouching down next to we need to understand what drove Evangelization and Formation a third-grader to admire her draw- Sts. Francis and Clare, what fueled ing. You can see it in Father Finian their understanding of God, how By Kathleen Flanagan McGinn as he sits in front of the they interpreted their experiences ALL PHOTOS: ©Peter jordan 2017 Old Mission every morning, giving and how prayer helped them dis- hundreds of visitors the chance to cover who they were and what they The following is from a detailed reflection entitled “Franciscan Evangelization and Education at Mission interact with a friar and to receive were called to do. We want those San Luis Rey,” available on our province website: www.sbfranciscans.org insights, as well as the wisdom of Blessed ld Mission San Luis Rey (OMSLR) is a perfect site for an evangeli- John and O zation center. From a distance, you can easily spot the gorgeous St. Bonaventure after white-stucco church silhouetted against the vast, blue sky. But the 56- them, to inform our the- acre campus is also a lively place as well as a beautiful one. Or should I ology and serve as the say, places—since we are really four distinct entities: a Parish of six thou- foundation and motiva- sand families; an historic Mission Church with a retreat center, cemetery tion for our actions. But and museum; the Franciscan School of Theology; and a 24-member friar this takes education. community. Brother Rami Fodda once referred to us as “cousins” and At the Parish, educa- that fits. We share Franciscan genes and a certain family resemblance— tion starts in the homi- each with its distinct personality. And in the end, we share the common lies our priests deliver. goal of evangelizing through a Franciscan lens. It continues with new A typically busy day at OMSLR can include multiple Masses, classes, staff and volunteers retreats, meals, funerals, weddings, training, staff meetings, ministry meet- at the Mission and the ings, board meetings, parties, and prayer requests. It can involve interac- Parish who receive tions between and among friars, theology students, volunteers, mainte- (Opposite page above left) The mission hosts numerous a written document nance workers, and visitors—especially 4th graders from all over California! events throughout the year. (Above) Mass at the Old Mission on Franciscan val- Yet somehow it also exudes peace. Church. ues. Education is also continued on page 25

16 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 17 creative spirit

Windows of Inspiration: Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Angels, Scottsdale, Arizona By Father Joe Schwab, OFM ALL PHOTOS Courtesy, Franciscan Renewal Center even if sin had never been chosen by human- ity, and that Christ is the ur new windows were designed O in cooperation with the artist reason for creation (Col. 1: Scott Parsons, of Sioux Falls, South 15-18). The windows are Dakota and the talented team of an invitation to all people people at the Derix Glasstudios, to enter the story of God’s Taunusstein, . presence among us and The overall design of our new to journey into discovery. church is organized They honor the beauty and around the key theme goodness of creation, the of Franciscan theol- beauty of human nature ogy: the mystery of the made real in Mary, and Incarnation. Because above all, the Presence God has chosen to take Artist Scott Parsons (l), with FRC of the Incarnate God. on human flesh in the Director of Liturgy & Music,Norbert Our new art glass window person of Jesus Christ, Zwickl (r) inspects installation of the themes were selected with these we stand in awe of the art glass windows for the Conventual theological principles in mind. humility of God who Church of Our Lady of the Angels Neither fully abstract nor represen- emptied Himself and (inset) at the Franciscan Renewal tational, they invite the viewer to ❖ took the form of a slave Center, Scottsdale, Arizona. Other interpret what is seen. (Phil. 2: 6-8). We also photos: details of windows designed celebrate the Franciscan by Scott Parsons and executed by idea that God would Derix Glasstudios, Taunusstein, Father Joe Schwab, OFM is Executive Director of have chosen incarnation Germany. the Franciscan Renewal Center.

18 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 19 Fabrication of windows for the Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Angels at Derix Glasstudios, Taunusstein, Germany

With Our Compliments… Our free document organizer completes your estate plan.

The Franciscan Friars are pleased to offer a complimentary estate-planning organizer. A place to store completed legal documents, the organizer also prepares you to create or update your will or living trust and contains a checklist of accounts, assets, and instructions so your loved ones can easily find what they need in case of emergency. When completed, the organizer lifts a burden from your loved ones and can save both them and you time and expense. To receive your free organizer, please call: Joanne Romeo at (510) 536-3722, Ext. 109 or go to www.sbfranciscans.org/get-involved/ donate/legacy-giving/ 20 FALL 2017 | The Way Over the years, women and men guest essay of diverse faith traditions have par- ticipated on a monthly basis in the two-year program which runs from September through June. The fifth, Franciscan and current, group of participants has just completed their first year. Spiritual Director At their last session in June, partici- pants expressed deep appreciation for the program and for the sup- Training Program port and encouragement they have received from each other. The six- Franciscan Spiritual Center, teen participants include Catholics, Protestants, a Buddhist, and an Milwaukie, Oregon Anglican priest, as well as chaplains, Reverend Eileen Parfrey counselors, and other profession- By Sister Mary Jo Chaves, OSF als. All are exploring the Franciscan well as contemporary Franciscan ALL PHOTOS Courtesy, Franciscan Spiritual Center values which are foundational to the theologians. As participants, in their program: the joy of Gospel living, role as spiritual directors, learn to the abundance and goodness of listen more deeply to others, they he Center’s mission is to serve as a place of peace, presence and com- God and creation, the dignity of the recognize that they are companion- Tmunity for all who come seeking companionship on their spiritual human person, ongoing conversion, ing their directees in understanding journey. Daily, men and women of diverse faiths and spiritual traditions are God’s generosity and self-giving, the their own goodness and truth, and welcomed; all are received with genuine Franciscan hospitality and joy. Rev- ultimate humility and freedom of as being made in the image and erend. Larry Peacock, Director of the Center, is a retired United Methodist God, the relationship and intercon- likeness of God-- a God who loves Pastor and experienced retreat leader, spiritual director and spirituality min- nectivity of all things, and the mys- them extravagantly. From the begin- ister. In addition to Reverend Peacock, nine staff members, including three tery of God’s extravagant love. ning of the program participants Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia and six women and men of various Both years of the program include develop the listening skills and the faith traditions serve at the Center. Sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of study and integration of these core use of inclusive language which lead Philadelphia, the Center rents space formerly used as a convent for sisters Franciscan values into the partici- them to deeper clarity about their who ministered at nearby St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish, where Father pant’s spiritual direction training. own image of the Divine. One par- Jorge Hernandez, OFM, is currently pastor. Sister Mary Jo, Reverend Eileen, and ticipant expressed his enthusiasm One program particularly relevant regularly scheduled guest speakers for the program by sharing that his to formation in the Franciscan Spirit provide insightful presentations. In heart has “come home” through the is the Franciscan Spiritual Direction addition, the program offers shared Franciscan spirituality he is integrat- Training Program. Sister Mary Jo retreat time, discussion of reading ing into his own life. He added that Chaves, OSF, has served as Director materials, creative activities, etc. he hopes to share the richness of of this program since its beginning In the second year, program par- this tradition with his directees once in 2011. Holding a Master’s degree ticipants engage in a practicum in he has completed the program. in Applied Theology, and certificates which they each direct two or three A new group will begin their train- in Spiritual Direction and in Supervi- people who volunteer to be their ing in September 2018. The website sion of Spiritual Directors, Sister directees. The Center’s staff provides for the Franciscan Spiritual Center Mary Jo has been engaged in supervision and consultation to the (www.francisspctr.com) contains spiritual ministry in the Portland, participants. a more detailed description of the Oregon area since 1996. Another This program differs from other program in addition to application staff member, Reverend Eileen spiritual direction training programs information. ❖ Parfrey, a retired Presbyterian pastor because of its Franciscan foundation and experienced spiritual director, including studies of the insights of Sister Mary Jo Chaves, OSF is a member of the facilitates the program along with Sister Mary Jo Chaves St. Francis, St. Clare, St. Bonaventure Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia and presently Sister Mary Jo. and Blessed John Duns Scotus as lives in Portland, Oregon

22 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 23 franciscan thoughts: continued from page 15 community profile: continued from page 17 and professional experience to this Jeff entered the Franciscans: “The expressed through Bible study and immigration to all of our staff and new formation scene. Brother John friars embraced all that I brought other formation classes and the inte- volunteers required a special meet- reflects: “When I entered the Order from the and helped gration of Franciscan spirituality to ing to calm the storm. A discussion in 1971, inspired in part by the fresh me to understand that I could the religious education curriculum. on serving only vegetarian meals winds coming from Vatican II, we take the gifts I had received in the And education grows when each to retreatants in order to reduce our had a highly unstructured program. cloister of the and apply member of the Pastoral Council, for carbon footprint practically incited a Over the years, the friars have come them to what St. Francis called the example, decides to choose a par- riot. And then there’s me—who just to understand and describe our way ‘cloister of the world.’ More recently, ticular Franciscan value, research it, last week, after putting down my of life and values more clearly. Now, Jeff spent two years at St. Joseph write a reflection and distribute one copy of Brother Bill Short’s Poverty we have more of a focus. My nearly Abbey, Spencer, Massachusetts: every single month for use by staff and Joy—got in my car, drove down 40 years in hospital work and as a “The Trappists put me back in touch and ministry heads! In fact, all of the road and within moments found union activist/organizer included 18 with everything I had learned from our meetings begin with prayer and myself cussing at someone who both the Benedictines and reflection in the Franciscan spirit. had cut me off. We are all really the Franciscans and helped Of course, not all of our efforts “works in progress”, aren’t we? ❖ me to put it all together.” at education and evangelization Jeff is excited about the “work.” Some days our efforts novitiate’s move to Santa resemble fine art; other days, spilt Kathleen Flanagan is the Executive Director of Barbara, not in the least paint. For example, the distribution Old Mission San Luis Rey and C.O.O. of Mission because it also allows for of the U.S. Provincials’ statement on San Luis Rey Parish, Oceanside, California. closer contact and collabo- ration with the novitiate programs of our Capuchin , OFM Y and Conventual Franciscan donor profile: continued from page 9 TAND K novitiate programs which I feel modern-day lepers are the my experience has taught me that : DIC are in the region. people who are most often misun- when it comes to formal study and

photo Brothers John and Jeff are derstood; for example, the intellectu- preparation, the profession of vows Friars Jeff Macnab (l) and Angelo Cardinalli (r) inspect both convinced that these ally challenged and the mentally ill. is not a destination; rather, it’s a step renovations at Old Mission Santa Barbara, new home “revitalized and restructured” A lot has happened since my along the way. Whatever our role of the Franciscan (OFM) interprovincial novitiate formation programs will serve early formative experiences, includ- in the Franciscan family, there is no an important witness to the ing my election to leadership roles time limit on how we can help form years as an emergency room tech. work of the Spirit, gathering men in the Seculars. I now see forma- each other into better Franciscans, They have given me a deep sense of together from across the continent tion and education from that per- better Catholics, and better what it means to accompany people. to share our rich diversity of per- spective. It’s been wonderful to Christians. Katherine, Lyn, and Vi Today, I get to accompany men who sonal and cultural gifts. As Brother get to know Secular Franciscans helped me get started on a great really want to live with each other Jeff puts it: “In terms of the pro- all over the western U.S. For sup- Franciscan journey. Like St. Francis as brothers and are responding to cess we are undergoing, the men port, feedback, and help, I know I they were always nurturing some- our core identity as Franciscans.” entering the Franciscans now will can count on any member of our thing beautiful in their hearts. And Brother Jeff also has a rich back- help us all to redefine ourselves, regional board or another minister. like my grandmother and her gar- ground in formation work. In fact, he to articulate a vision appropriate I have a fond friend who is Minister den, they reached out and gave that has been involved in three separate for our times, and to experience of her fraternity in San Diego. We beauty to others. I only hope I can religious communities himself: the the Gospel as inspired by Saints communicate in Spanish (my third do the same as I continue to learn Benedictines, the Franciscans, and Francis and Clare in new and language) and English (her second). to “garden” the Franciscan way. ❖ the Trappists. Initially, he lived as exciting ways.” R&R, Franciscan- Another dear friend is Vietnamese, a member of the Benedictine com- style. It’s a whole new thing! ❖ and we communicate in French munity in Mount Angel, Oregon (my second language). We’re not for five years: “The gave always fluent in each other’s lan- Linda Whitman, OFS, has been a Province me discipline, a love for liturgy, for Father Charles Talley, OFM is Director of guages, but the task is doable. supporter for seven years. She is married, with community, and for prayer and the Communications for the Franciscan friars of the I professed vows as a Secular two stepdaughters and three grandchildren and contemplative life.” Then, in 1979, Province of St. Barbara. Franciscan in October 2008. But lives and works in Santa Barbara, California.

24 FALL 2017 | The Way The Way | FALL 2017 25 at last y heolog T of

chool S “Ongoing formation ranciscan F of y is a journey of our whole life, rtes u co

hoto

P both personal and in community, in

The Franciscan School Of Theology: which our own gifts, our witness to An Education In Compassion by Darleen Pryds, Ph.D. the Gospel and our choice of calling Excerpt from commencement address given at the Franciscan School of Theology, Old Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, California (May 20, 2017). Darleen Pryds, Ph.D., is Associate are constantly developed, after Professor of Christian Spirituality and History at FST. –ed. the example of St. Francis, Compassion is at the heart of Franciscan privilege: presence with suffering, presence with those who disagree with you. This is the privilege your degree confers on you. This is not a stance of meekness. No, the Franciscan who always invites us anew way shows us we must be bold enough to walk up to someone who is different from us and with an open heart to be curious to understand. ‘to begin to do good.’” The education you have pursued here at the Franciscan School of Theology has challenged you to cultivate a curiosity—not only of the intel- lect, but also of the heart. And contrary to what many think, this curiosity of ❖ both intellect and heart requires great boldness… the boldness to be present to those different from us, the boldness to be present to our very selves. And Adapted from General Constitutions, this is where so many of us get caught up in this Franciscan understanding , Article 135 of poverty. We have so few models of real humility, real poverty—that we may think that Francis must have been very timid when he approached the wolf (at Gubbio). But we misrepresent and get confused if we think being Franciscan is about playing small. A humility and a poverty that stems from playing small out of timidity? That is a caricature of this Franciscan privilege of poverty; this Franciscan privilege of compassion. In fact, it takes much courage to be ourselves—to be vulnerable to misunderstanding and critique by exposing our hearts. It takes much courage to encounter others who are different from ourselves when we are this vulnerable. ❖

26 FALL 2017 | The Way Franciscan Friars of California, Inc. Province of Saint Barbara 1500 34th Ave. Oakland, CA 94601

www.sbfranciscans.org