On November 17, we celebrate the memory of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary or Thuringia (1207–1231), a Franciscan laywoman who is venerated today as patroness of Secular Franciscans and of the many congregations of women and men following the Franciscan Third Order Regular Rule.

On November 8, Franciscans honor the memory of Blessed John Duns Scotus (c.1266-1308), one of the greatest of medieval theologians.

In St. Peter's Square on October 20, 2024 — World Mission Day — Pope Francis canonized the Martyrs of Damascus. These new saints of the Catholic Church include eight Franciscan friars and three lay Maronites.

The International Society of Franciscan Studies, a partnership between the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure University and the Franciscan Study Center at Tilburg University, Netherlands, has recently been launched.

On October 11, the Catholic Church celebrates the memory of Pope St. John XXIII (1881-1963), a Secular Franciscan affectionately known as the "Good Pope."

On October 4, Franciscan men and women join other Christians, many religious people of other faiths, and countless people of goodwill throughout the world to honor the inspiring memory of Francis of Assisi, known as “il Poverello," that is, "the little poor one."

The Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS) at Durham University (https://www.durham.ac.uk/research/institutes-and-centres/catholic-studies/) is advertising for the inaugural “Duns Scotus Assistant Professor in Franciscan Studies.” 

In preparation for the 750th anniversary of the death of St. Bonaventure, Doctor of the Church, on July 15, here is a letter from the Ministers General of the First Order and the Third Order Regular.

In this week's Gospel reflection, Brother Larry Hayes, OFM, and Greg Friedman, OFM, explore the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Although written specifically for the friars, we have also included Brother Larry's Easter message due to its universal appeal to all brothers and sisters in Christ.