February 22-March 1, 2026
Friar's Footnotes by Fr. John Prenger, OFP
Love and blessings as we enter more deeply into our Lenten observances.
Our upcoming scripture texts are Genesis 12: 1-4; Psalm 33; 2 Timothy 1: 8-10; and Matthew 17: 1-9. The first reading is simply the original call of Abram (later called Abraham). The second reading calls us to enter into the challenge of living the Gospel. The gospel text is the account of Jesus' Transfiguration.
CHAPEL SCHEDULE
Noon Tuesday (February 24), Holy Hour with the exposition of the Holy Eucharist
Noon Thursday Eucharist (February 26), Fr. John presiding
5 pm Saturday Eucharist (February 28), Fr. Jim presiding
SAYINGS OF THE SAINTS
A prayer of St Richard of Chichester England: "Thanks be to You, my Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits You have given me, for all the pains and insults You have borne for me, most holy redeemer, friend and brother. May I know You more clearly, love You more dearly, and follow You more nearly, day by day. Amen"
From St Francis Xavier SJ: "Twice a day, or at least once, make your particular examination (of conscience). Be careful never to omit them. So live as to make more account of your own good conscience than you do of those of others; for he who is not good in regard to himself, how can he be good in regard to others."
That does it for me today. Love to all.
Fr. John ofp
Padre’s Pontifications by Fr. Jim McNeely
September 2025
A Pastoral Statement
September 16, 2025
As a community of people committed to following the example of Saints Francis and Clare, we are stunned by the senseless violence that occurred last week, which ended in the murder of Charlie Kirk. We condemn in the strongest possible language the use of violence and hate against anyone, regardless of their political leanings.
We call for all Christian people – and especially those who follow a Franciscan calling – to embrace the virtues of peace, love, toleration, and compassion. Pray earnestly for the repose of the soul of our brother, Charlie Kirk. Pray for his wife and family. Pray for those involved in this shooting. And most of all, pray for those who found pleasure in the senseless murder of an innocent person.
As a community of faithful followers of Jesus, we call all people to re-examine our hearts and find new ways to be Christian examples in our communities. And we renew our belief that real compassion is found not in loving those easy to love, but those who challenge our comfort zones and disagree with us on any level.
-Fr. John Prenger, OFP
Pastor and Protector of the Order
-Fr. Jim McNeely
Priest in Residence and Friend of Francis
