September is back-to-school month in much of the country. As usual, Franciscans will be immersed in education.
St. Francis of Assisi lacked formal education, yet the community he founded has long been educating students. He was a man who valued learning, even if opportunities during his time for formal class instruction were limited.
Francis valued education focused on humility and service to others. That tradition continues.
Franciscan scholars through the centuries have included St. Bonaventure, John Duns Scotus, and William of Ockham, all leading lights of medieval Europe.
When the friars came to the United States, they established colleges, including St. Bonaventure and Siena College, now university, in upstate New York. Those schools took on as their mission the education of men from all classes and later included women as well.
Throughout, Franciscan institutions of higher learning have educated friars in formation. That tradition continues today, supported by generous donors to the Franciscan mission.
Bro. Matt Ryan, OFM, who recently earned his Master of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, will be ordained this year. Bro. Matt, a native of Covington, Kentucky, worked as a public defender before being called to Franciscan life.
“I’m deeply grateful for the donor support that makes Franciscan education and formation possible. This education doesn’t just form ministers; it forms Franciscans like me who serve with both heart and conviction wherever the Lord calls. Thank you to all those who helped pay for my support and education. I am a Franciscan priest because of your help. I will be praying for you daily,” he said.
Bro. Adolfo Mercado, OFM, recently completed his studies at the Franciscan School of Theology in San Diego. He will take his solemn vows this year.
Bro. Adolfo is the son of farmworkers and grew up in Sacramento, California. He is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Cruz and served in ministry among the poor in Guaymas, Mexico.
“The education I have received at the Franciscan School of Theology has anchored me in Franciscan theology, spirituality, and all-around charism. I look forward to applying what I have learned in service to all of God’s sacred creation. Thank you to all the donors for your support – you have helped me reach this wonderful stage in my life as a friar,” he said.
Planned Giving to the Franciscans allows you to make a charitable contribution as part of your overall financial and estate planning, providing support for our Franciscan mission, including education. Training our friars for ministry is vital to our future ministries. Opportunities for giving are available via bequests, charitable trusts, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts.
To learn more about how you can help the Franciscan Friars, contact Bro. Paul O’Keeffe, OFM, via email at pokeeffe@friars.us or by calling 646-473-0265, ext. 303.