Franciscan Voice

Stargazing with St. Bonaventure

Looking up at the night sky might not seem like an introduction to St. Bonaventure. But for Friar Maximilian Martin, it's a way to begin to understand the 'Second Founder' of the Franciscan Order. So go out into a clear night, look at the stars, and listen as he explains.

Constitutions Part 10: Conversion

Adapting to an ever-changing world, we continue conforming ourselves to Christ through a life-long process of conversion. Friar Tim Kulbicki explains the process from a Franciscan perspective.

The Call: Friar Bede Hess

Friar Bede Hess (1936-1953) served the Conventual Franciscan Order as Minister General during World War II, and served as an intermediary between the Allied and Axis powers. Hear more of his story in this episode of 'The Call.'

Finding Joy

Expect nothing, hope for something, be surprised - Friar Jude Winkler reflects on how we can find peace and joy in our lives.

Constitutions Part 9: Formation

What is Franciscan formation? How does it work? Friar Tim Kulbicki continues his discussion of the Constitutions.

Hymn of Zechariah

No matter where we are, we can find God's peace. In this episode, Friar Jude Winkler reflects on the birth and life of St. John the Baptist.

Don't Be Lukewarm

In the Book of Revelation 3:16 "So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth." Friar John Bamman walks us through this difficult passage: What does it mean to be hot or cold? How can we navigate those times when we feel lukewarm? How do we know if we are doing what God wants us to do? From young adults to middle-age to those approaching the end of their lives, Fr. John has ideas that we can all use.

Not An Ordinary Peace

Since the 1960s we've often heard the word peace, but not seen much of it. But when St. Paul uses the word, it means something deeper and more profound than we think. Friar Jude Winkler explains the peace that comes from an encounter with Jesus.

Constitutions Part 8: Mission

Words teach and actions speak. In this episode, Friar Tim Kulbicki talks about the call for the friars to travel the world proclaiming the Good News. How can we reinvigorate Christian life? How can we share the joy of the Gospel?

Constitutions Part 7: Ministry

Ministry is our response to Jesus' commands. St. Francis said: "The Lord God gave me the grace to work." Friar Tim Kulbicki discusses how the Friars respond to the needs of the times in deciding the tasks to be accomplished, then work on their assigned duties (while remembering their spiritual and fraternal lives), humbly doing the things the Church and the community need them to do.