Message from our Minister Provincial

In April 1209, Francesco Bernardone, a young man of 27 years, set out on the long journey to Rome. He was accompanied by a motley group of his townspeople. His purpose was to ask the greatest Pope of the age to approve a penitential way of life for them.

How extraordinary that, in that age of confusion with so many crazy and heretical religious movements, Pope Innocent III was able to recognise the work of the Holy Spirit in the men from Assisi who were the beginnings of the Franciscan Order.

This year, 2009, we give thanks to God for that graced moment of insight and openness to the Spirit eight hundred years ago.

For a number of years before taking this step, St Francis prayed for guidance in these words:

Most High, Glorious God,
enlighten the darkness of my heart.
Give me right faith,
certain hope and perfect charity.
Give me sense and knowledge
that I may carry out
your holy and true command.

May each one of us make that prayer in regard to our own way of life, especially those who are discerning their vocation. And may God's blessing be upon you every day of the year ahead.

Caoimhín Ó Laoide, OFM
Minister Provincial