Christians begin Holy Week on Palm Sunday, which is beautifully depicted in a fresco by Pietro Lorenzetti in the lower Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi (c. 1315–20).
On April 16, we venerate the memory of St. Benedict Joseph Labre (1748-1783), a Secular Franciscan who chose the life of a penitent pilgrim, ending his days as a "street person."
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.
On March 19, as the Church celebrates the solemnity of Saint Joseph, it is interesting to note the important role the Franciscan family played in spreading devotion to him.
On March 18, Franciscans commemorate Saint Salvador of Horta (1520–1567), a Catalan friar known in his lifetime for his humility, intense prayer life, and healing powers.
On March 12, Franciscans remember Blessed Angela Salawa (1881-1922), a Secular Franciscan whose life was marked by prayer, humble service, and outreach to the sick and wounded.
