On January 7, Franciscans in the United States celebrate not only St. Angela of Foligno [see reflection for January 4] but also join their brothers and sisters elsewhere in recalling the memory of a Friar Minor known for his profound spiritual life: Saint Charles of Sezze (1613–1670).
On January 4, Franciscans, especially the Third Order, both Secular and Regular, celebrate the memory of the great mystic, Saint Angela of Foligno (c. 1248–1309).
On January 3, we observe the feast of the Holy Name of Jesus, a devotion especially dear to Franciscans.
Christmas was such a special feast for Saint Francis because it reveals so vividly the deepest mystery of God: that our God totally empties self in the person of Jesus to share our frail humanity.
On December 15, Franciscans, especially Secular Franciscans and Third Order Regular congregations, honor the memory of Blessed Mary Frances Schervier (1819–1876).
On December 12, Catholics in the Americas celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which today is one of the most popular Christian shrines in the world. Franciscans were there at the beginning of this story.
On December 8, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, especially significant for Franciscans, as under this title we honor Mary as Patron and Queen of the Seraphic Order.
On November 29, the Franciscan family celebrates the Feast of All Saints of the Seraphic Order – remembering the countless Franciscan men and women who have lived out the Gospel of Jesus Christ by following the patterns of life left by Francis and Clare of Assisi.
On November 26, Franciscans around the world honor the memory of Saint Leonard of Port Maurice (1676–1751), famous preacher of parish missions.
