To mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, the Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS) at Durham University will hold its third international Franciscan Studies conference, Life and Love Transfigured: Exploring New Horizons in the Franciscan Tradition, from April 14 to April 16, 2026.

On April 4, the Franciscan family honors the memory of Saint Benedict of Palermo, sometimes called Benedict the African or the Black (1526-1589). In Italian he is referred to as “il Moro” (dark-skinned), and this was often translated into English as “the Moor.”

Inspired by a recent letter by Pope Francis, the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe have launched a series of monthly reflections on the transforming power of the Gospel message in our current challenging situation.

Now available, our website tutorials help you make the most of the Digital Collections from the Commission on the Franciscan Intellectual-Spiritual Tradition and the American Academy of Franciscan History.

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.

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.