WHY WORK IS PART OF THE SFO WAY OF LIFE

This article is a TAU-USA reprint from many years ago. Happy Labor Day! Mike

Ed Zablocki, SFO
Co-Chair, Work Commission

Let them esteem work both as a gift and as a sharing in the creation, redemption, and service of the human community. (Art. 16)

What is the source of article 16 concerning "work" found in our 1978 Rule? In the preceding article, we learned that in previous Secular Franciscan Rules hardly any mention is made of work and then, only tangentially, in relation to obligations to fast. In contrast, the original First Order Rule had an entire section addressing the friars' attitude toward work. St. Francis mentions the "grace of working" for friars primarily as an antidote to idleness which he considered as the greatest enemy of the soul. Work was also a means for the friars to provide good example and to further identify their lot with the minores who labored hard to sustain their existence.

But why is work now included as a positive element of our 1978 Rule? To discover the answer to that question, we need to consider the decade-long process of developing of our new Rule. The process was precipitated by the events of the Second Vatican Council. All Orders in the Church were called to reinvigorate themselves by both returning to the charism of the order's founder and by adapting the Church's new understandings of herself and of the world realized through the efforts of the Council. We see both these movements, the recovery of the old and embrace the new, present in the development of our present Secular Franciscan rule.

The call in our 1978 Rule to a life of "conversion" (art. 7) is a prime example of a return to our original charism - recovering the original meaning of "penance" as an on-going change of heart rather than a collection of penitential practices . In terms of embracing the newness of vision presented by the Council, Fr. John C. Haughey in Converting 9 to 5: A Spirituality of Daily Work, notes that as a result of the Council, the Church found "new clarity" about "its role in the world, the vocation of the laity, the extension of the understanding of ministry, and the autonomy of the secular." All these elements concern laypersons and represent profoundly good news for lay women and men. A layperson's ordinary life in the world was no longer understood by the Church as an obstacle to but rather as the very means of attaining holiness. The laity no longer had to attempt to emulate the monastic ideal in their pursuit of holiness and of the kingdom or be burdened with guilt about being spiritually second-rate. Our spiritual path was no longer to move away from the world but to grow in holiness and help bring about God's kingdom right where we were - in and through our involvement in the world through our on-going relationships and commitments in our families, our communities and our work. This new and positive appreciation of the role of the laity is called "secular spirituality." This spirituality embodies an appreciation and reverence for the presence of God in the mundane that is eminently Franciscan in its vision of the goodness of all creation.

Secular spirituality represented a dramatic change in understanding concerning the role of laypersons in fulfilling their vocation and mission. And, not really surprisingly, given our natural resistance to change, this spirituality was not quickly incorporated into the new Secular Franciscan Rule. In "De Illis Qui Faciunt Penitentiam" The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order: Origins, Development, Interpretation, Robert M. Stewart, OFM, observes that seven years after the process of developing the new Rule began an International Commission reviewing the latest draft "most strongly criticized the 1974 Rule draft for its failure to present adequately a specifically 'secular' spirituality." This Commission also noted that the draft "contains little that would not also be appropriate within a rule for a canonical religious Franciscan group."

In response to this critique, the next Rule draft included the addition of an entirely new section called In the Midst of the World. Here we see mention made of "work" for the first time in development of the new Rule:

Like all members of the Franciscan Family, we are sent to the entire world. As seculars, we have our own vocation: living in the midst of the world, engaged in various duties and works of the world, it is our duty to enlighten and to direct all temporal realities to which we are closely united, in such a way that they may work and prosper constantly according to Christ and may be to the glory of the Creator and Redeemer. Also, as members of secular society, we will know how, according to the gifts given by the Lord, to take our share of responsibility, bringing to this management of temporal things the spirit of the Beatitudes. By our witness and our action, joined with that of other men and women, we will work in these different sectors towards the realization of the plan of God for the world. It is first of all in our family that we will live the Franciscan spirit, striving to make it a sign of the world already renewed in Christ. We will make our work a participation in the development of creation, the redemption of men and women, and a service to the whole human community . Finally, aware that it belongs to the whole Church to make people capable of building the temporal order well and of orienting it toward Christ, with a clear distinction of the rights and duties of ecclesial communities, the secular fraternities will assume their apostolic and social responsibilities and commit themselves to concrete evangelical choices.

Work entered our 1978 Secular Franciscan Rule as an integral part of the Church's wonderful new vision for the laity. "Christ's redemptive work, while of itself directed toward the salvation of men, involves also the renewal of the whole temporal order. Hence the mission of the church is not only to bring to men the message and grace of Christ, but also to penetrate and perfect the temporal sphere with the spirit of the gospel." (Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity, 5) Our work in the world is helping to bring about God's plan to return all things to Christ. This mission is given by the Church particularly to the laity as their "distinctive task." (ibid.)

St. Francis, who so thoroughly embraced the goals of the Fourth Lateran Council that its symbol (the Tau) became his own, must be pleased to see the effort made to make our new Rule faithful to Vatican II's exciting and challenging vision of the vocation and mission of the laity. Perhaps he is even delighted - because this vision itself is so very Franciscan in nature - seeing the world in a positive light as "an incarnation of the love of God."

The Echo of St. Clare's Transitus: A Journey of Heart and Soul

"Gaze, consider, contemplate, imitate." In the secret spaces of our souls and amidst the heartbeats of our fraternity, a tale as ancient as it is ever new reverberates the story of St. Clare's Transitus. As August 10th unfolds, a date which to many might seem like any other, for us, the Secular Franciscan community, it vibrates with a sacred hum, marking the celestial voyage of St. Clare.

 These words, a whispered mantra, trace the very cadence of Clare's spirit, painting a portrait of her pilgrimage from mere existence to profound enlightenment.

Gaze

To gaze is to drown oneself in the depths of what is seen. Clare did not merely see Christ; she gazed upon Him, losing herself and finding a universe of divine love. It beckons us to not just glance but to truly see - to witness the Godliness in our brethren, to recognize the sacred dance of joy and sorrow, to embrace each other with the same intensity as Clare embraced the vision of the divine.

Consider

Pondering deeper, St. Clare went beyond the superficial layers of life. She weighed her choices, embraced her destiny, and felt a divine pull towards a life echoing St. Francis's footsteps. As  fraternity, we pause and reflect, intertwining Clare's wisdom with our shared narrative, letting her echoes guide our shared journey.

Contemplate

In the sanctuary of silence, Clare found her most profound dialogues. Under the canopy of stars in Assisi, she danced in the divine embrace. Together, our fraternity finds strength in such contemplative silences. There are moments when our hearts synchronize, transcending words, and we touch the essence of divinity.

Imitate

The essence of Clare's life was her imitation of Christ's boundless compassion. Her every act mirrored the Savior's grace, beckoning us to follow suit. In fraternity, we seek to walk in her shadow, making her legacy our own. Each kind deed, every comforting word, becomes a reflection of her, and through her, of Christ Himself.

The Transitus of St. Clare is not a mere remembrance; it's a symphony of love, sacrifice, and divine surrender. As the notes play, we are invited to lose ourselves and find our true purpose, dancing to the same rhythm that once moved the heart of St. Clare. As a Secular Franciscan Fraternity, on this day and always, let us journey together, gazing, considering, contemplating, and ever striving to imitate our beloved Clare's footsteps.

Wishing you God’s Peace

Mike

Franciscan Centenary

In the embrace of time's flowing river,

A momentous milestone draws near,

Eight centuries of Franciscan endeavor,

A legacy cherished, crystal clear.

Centenaries, a celebration profound,

Gazing beyond the horizon's crest,

To strengthen our Franciscan ground,

And nurture our charism, blessed.

St. Francis, the Divine's chosen one,

Received a gift, pure and rare,

Complementarity,

communion spun,

Radiating love, beyond compare.

Those who adore the Lord's embrace,

With hearts aflame, burning bright,

Invited to join in this sacred space,

Honoring the Poverello' s holy light.

Laudato si' echoes the Franciscan call,

To witness the beauty of the Gospel's tune,

Through creation's embrace, we stand tall,

Uniting hearts under a celestial moon.

A prophetic vision, we dare to dream,

Rekindling the fire that burns within,

A future bathed in love's sacred gleam,

Igniting souls, releasing the din.

A tapestry woven, the Franciscan Family,

With colors vibrant, diverse and true,

Let all activities and initiatives be,

Coordinated, as one, through and through.

A commission, representing the whole,

Shall guide and inspire with utmost care,

Ensuring our unity, an enchanting role,

Visible, united, a Franciscan prayer.

So let us gather, hand in hand,

In this jubilant journey, forever bound,

800 years, a story we expand,

A celebration resounding, profound.

May the spirit of St. Francis guide our way,

As we honor the past and the future we seek,

With love and joy, we humbly pray,

For the Franciscan Family, strong and meek.

Kathleen Carsten, OFS

Holly Michigan

In the land where memories rest, with solemn grace,

There lies a sanctuary, a hallowed place,

A Soldiers Cemetery, in Holly Michigan's embrace,

Where heroes find eternal repose, a timeless space.

Oh, let me take you on a journey profound,

To a sacred ground where honor is found,

Where the whispers of valor echo all around,

And the spirits of the brave forever abound.

On this Memorial Day, we gather in respect,

To pay homage to those we'll never forget,

The brave men and women who courageously protect,

The freedoms we cherish, the ideals we connect.

Beneath azure skies, with flags unfurled,

Row upon row, a sea of granite and pearl,

Silent sentinels, standing tall in this sacred world,

Their stories are etched in stone, each one unfurls.

As we walk through this field, an ocean of green,

We can sense the sacrifice, the valor unseen,

For here lies the essence of the American dream,

In the hearts of those who fought, in battles unforeseen.

In every breath of wind that softly sighs,

We hear the laments of loved ones' cries,

The tears shed for heroes who reached the skies,

Their legacy, a beacon that never dies.

With hearts heavy but spirits aglow,

We remember their courage, the strength they showed,

Their names may fade, but their stories, we bestow,

In this sacred soil, their bravery will forever flow.

So, let us honor those who laid down their lives,

For the cause of justice, for freedom that survives,

In this National Cemetery, where reverence thrives,

We bow our heads, forever grateful, with tear-filled eyes.

Miss you, Dad,

World Day of Cultural Diversity, May 21

A Joyful Celebration of Cultural Diversity

Today, we celebrate the World Day of Cultural Diversity, and as Secular Franciscans, we're ready to dive into the vibrant sea of different cultures. So, grab your open minds, sprinkle some curiosity, and embark on this enlightening journey together!

Embracing Cultural Diversity: Uniting Through Our Uniqueness

The Essence of Cultural Diversity: A Kaleidoscope of Awesomeness

As Secular Franciscans, we are reminded to appreciate and respect the incredible diversity surrounding us on this day. Cultural diversity is like a gigantic kaleidoscope, bursting with vibrant colors, each representing a unique culture. It's a captivating mix of customs, traditions, languages, and ways of life that make our world so wonderfully complex.

Promoting Unity Through Understanding: Breaking Barriers and Spreading Love

Breaking Down Barriers: Let's Get Real, We’re All in This Together!

Imagine a world where cultural barriers are shattered and unity blossoms like a field of wildflowers. As Secular Franciscans, we know the importance of breaking down those walls that divide us. It's time to embrace our shared humanity, regardless of our cultural backgrounds, and work together to create a harmonious symphony of cultures.

Challenging Stereotypes: It's Time for Some Myth-Busting!

Listen—did you hear that? It's the sound of stereotypes being shattered! Cultural diversity challenges those pesky misconceptions and prejudices that keep us from truly understanding and appreciating one another. As Secular Franciscans, it's our promise and responsibility to challenge those outdated beliefs and encourage genuine connections based on respect and dialogue. Let's debunk those stereotypes and create a world where everyone feels valued and understood.

 

The Role of Secular Franciscans: Spreading Love and Embracing Differences

Embodying Franciscan Values: Unconditional Love

Saint Francis of Assisi showed us the way with humility, compassion, and unconditional love for all beings. Today, right now, let's embody those values and inspire others to do the same. By actively promoting cultural diversity, we can walk in the footsteps of this fantastic saint and create a world filled with compassion and understanding.

Engaging in Interfaith Dialogue: Let's Talk, Laugh, and Learn!

Engaging in interfaith dialogue is like entering a treasure trove of wisdom and discovery. By conversing with people of different religious backgrounds, we open our minds to new perspectives and build bridges of understanding. It's time to have meaningful conversations, share laughter, and embrace the beauty of diversity.

Practicing Solidarity: Standing Strong Together

Solidarity, my friends, is our secret weapon in the fight against inequality. As Secular Franciscans, we stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, advocating for their rights and challenging the systems perpetuating injustice. It's time to use our voices, join forces, and create a world where equality and justice thrive.

FAQs About Embracing Cultural Diversity

1. Why is cultural diversity important? 

Cultural diversity is like the spice of life, adding flavor, depth, and richness to our global tapestry. It promotes tolerance, fosters creativity and innovation, and allows us to learn from one another's experiences.

2. How can I personally contribute to promoting cultural diversity?

You, my friend, hold the power to make a difference! Embrace cultural exchange, attend multicultural events, and enjoy all that is good in one another.

3. Is cultural diversity only about different ethnicities?

Absolutely not! Cultural diversity is like a gigantic buffet with a smorgasbord of delectable options. It's a celebration of the kaleidoscope of human creativity and expression! It's not just about different ethnicities; it encompasses languages, religions, traditions, art forms, music, and even quirky little customs that make each culture unique.

4. How can I overcome my biases and prejudices towards other cultures?

Tackling those sneaky biases and prejudices is no easy task, but fear not, intrepid explorer! The first step is self-reflection. Take a moment to question your own assumptions and challenge those ingrained beliefs. Then, step out of your comfort zone and engage with cultures different from your own. Immerse yourself in diverse experiences, listen to stories, ask questions (respectfully, of course), and be open to learning and unlearning. Embrace the adventure of unearthing hidden gems of understanding and empathy.

5. How can we celebrate the World Day of Cultural Diversity as Secular Franciscans?

The World Day of Cultural Diversity is like a big party, and we're all invited! As Lay Franciscans, we can organize events that promote cultural exchange, such as multicultural fairs, where people can come together to share their traditions, cuisines, dances, and stories. We can also collaborate with interfaith organizations to host dialogues and workshops fostering understanding and unity among religious communities. Remember, the key is approaching these celebrations with joy, respect, and a genuine desire to connect with our fellow human beings.

6. What are the benefits of embracing cultural diversity?

Embracing cultural diversity leads to a more inclusive and harmonious society. It sparks creativity, encourages innovation, and broadens our perspectives. It challenges us to think beyond our own bubble and fosters a sense of interconnectedness. Plus, let's remember the delicious food, captivating music, and mind-blowing art that come along with cultural diversity!

Let the Colors of Diversity Illuminate Our Path

As we wrap up this joyous celebration of cultural diversity, let us remember the words attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi: "...for it is in giving that we receive”. Let's weave a vibrant tapestry of unity, understanding, and love where every culture and every individual is valued and celebrated. By embracing and promoting cultural diversity as Secular Franciscans, we not only enrich the lives of others but also find fulfillment and growth within ourselves.

So, let's go forth with open hearts, curious minds,

and a deep appreciation for the beauty of our diverse world.

Happy World Day of Cultural Diversity!

From Gospel to Life and Life to the Gospel

As a Secular Franciscan

I believe that one of the essential aspects of our spiritual journey is to live out the Gospel message in our daily lives. It is not enough to merely read and study the teachings of Christ; we must also put them into practice through our actions and interactions with others. This article will explore the importance of going from "Gospel to Life and Life to the Gospel." and how we can cultivate a deeper relationship with God through this practice.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Understanding the Gospel

3. The Need to Live Out the Gospel

4. Going from Gospel to Life

   • Embodying Gospel Values

   • Practicing Charity and Service

   • Living a Simple Life

5. Life Back to the Gospel

   • Reflecting on Our Lives

   • Reconnecting with Christ

   • Renewing Our Commitment to the Gospel

6. The Importance of Community

7. Embracing Our Call as Secular Franciscans

8. Conclusion

9. FAQs

Introduction

The Gospel is the foundation of our faith as Christians. It is the message of hope, love, and salvation that Christ brought to the world through His life, death, and resurrection. We must understand the Gospel intellectually and live it out daily. As Secular Franciscans, we follow in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced poverty, simplicity, and humility to imitate Christ.

Understanding the Gospel

To go from Gospel to life and life to the Gospel, we must first understand what the Gospel is and what it teaches us. The Gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ came to us because of love, and in and through this profound love to give us eternal life with God. It is a message of love, mercy, and forgiveness that invites us to follow Christ and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

The Gospel is not just a set of beliefs or doctrines; it is a way of life that transforms us from the inside out. It challenges us to live according to the values of the Living Word of God, which is often at odds with the world's values. To understand the Gospel, we must be willing to study it, reflect on it, and apply it to our lives.

The Need to Live Out the Gospel

As Secular Franciscans, we are called to live out the Gospel daily. This means we must put our faith into action by serving others, practicing charity, and living a simple life. It also means that we must be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel and to embrace the values of the Kingdom of God.

Living out the Gospel is not always easy, especially in a world that often values wealth, power, and success over love, mercy, and justice. It requires us to be counter-cultural and to challenge the status quo. But it is also enriching, as it allows us to experience the joy and peace that come from living a life of service and love.

Going from Gospel to Life

To embody the values of the Gospel, we must first understand what they are. The Gospel teaches us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

Going from Gospel to life means embodying the values of the Gospel in our daily lives. It means living as Christ did, with humility, compassion, and love. Here are three ways that we can go from Gospel to life:

• Embodying Gospel Values

We must put God first and seek to love others as we love ourselves. We must also be willing to forgive those who wronged us, show mercy to those in need, and seek justice for the oppressed.    

• Practicing Charity and Service

Practicing charity and service means being willing to serve others in need. This can take many forms, such as volunteering at a homeless shelter to helping a neighbor in need. As Secular Franciscans, we are called to see Christ in those we serve and to offer them our love and compassion.

• Living a Simple Life

Living a simple life means embracing a lifestyle of poverty, humility, and simplicity. It means being willing to let go of our attachment to material possessions and live more in line with the values of the Gospel. This can be challenging but incredibly rewarding, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.

Life Back to the Gospel

Going from life back to the Gospel means reflecting on our lives and renewing our commitment to Christ. It means taking time to examine our actions and attitudes and to discern how we can better embody the values of the Gospel in our daily lives. Here are three ways that we can go from life back to the Gospel:

• Reflecting on Our Lives

To go from life back to the Gospel, we must first take time to reflect on our lives. This means examining our thoughts, feelings, and actions and discerning where we may fall short in our commitment to Christ. It also means praying and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.

• Reconnecting with Christ

Reconnecting with Christ means renewing our relationship through prayer, study, and reflection. It means taking time to read the Bible, meditate on the teachings of Christ, and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit. It also means participating in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, which is the source and summit of our faith.

• Renewing Our Commitment to the Gospel

Renewing our commitment to the Gospel means recommitting ourselves to living out the values of the Gospel in our daily lives. It means consciously loving God and our neighbor more fully, serving others in need, and living a simple and humble life.

The Importance of Community

As Lay Franciscans, we recognize the importance of community in our spiritual journey. We are called to live in a community with others who share our commitment to the Gospel and to support one another on our journey. This means participating in community prayer and worship, sharing our experiences and struggles, and offering one another our love and support.

Embracing Our Call as Secular Franciscans

Finally, we must embrace our call as Secular Franciscans and seek to live out the Gospel message daily. This means consciously embodying the Gospel's values, serving others in need, and living a life of simplicity and humility. It also means sharing our faith with others and inviting them to join us on this journey. www.stclarefraternity.org

Conclusion

In conclusion, going from Gospel to life and back again is essential to our spiritual journey as Secular Franciscans. It requires us to not only understand the teachings of Christ intellectually but also to live them out in our daily lives. By embodying the values of the Gospel, practicing charity and service, and living a simple life, we can go from Gospel to life. And by reflecting on our lives, reconnecting with Christ, and renewing our commitment to the Gospel, we can go from life back to the Gospel. Through this practice, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and experience the joy and peace that come from living a life of service and love.

FAQs

1. What does it mean to go from Gospel to life and life to the Gospel?

Going from Gospel to life and life to the Gospel means living out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives and then reflecting on our actions and attitudes to discern how we can better embody the values of the Gospel.

• Why is it essential to live out the Gospel in our daily lives?

Living out the Gospel is essential because it allows us to embody the values of the Kingdom of God and to experience the joy and peace that come from living a life of service and love.

• How can we practice charity and service in our daily lives?

We can practice charity and service daily by serving others in need and offering them our love and compassion.

• Why is community important in our spiritual journey?

Community is essential in our spiritual journey because it allows us to support one another and share our experiences and struggles.

• How can we embrace our call as Secular Franciscans?

We can embrace our call as Secular Franciscans by consciously living out the Gospel's values, serving others in need, and living a life of simplicity and humility. We can also share our faith with others and invite them to join us on this journey. www.stclarefraternity.org