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“Mary, the Mother who cared for Jesus, now cares with maternal affection and pain for this wounded world. Just as her pierced heart mourned the death of Jesus, so now she grieves for the sufferings of the crucified poor and for the creatures of this world laid waste by human power.

Completely transfigured, she now lives with Jesus, and all creatures sing of her fairness. She is the Woman, ‘clothed in the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.’ Carried up into heaven, she is the Mother and Queen of all creation. In her glorified body, together with the Risen Christ, part of creation has reached the fullness of its beauty. She treasures the entire life of Jesus in her heart and now understands the meaning of all things. Hence,we can ask her to enable us to look at this world with eyes of wisdom.

The Spring Adult Education brochures are now available.

Please note a correction for the course We and the Ways of Two Mystics: Thomas Merton and Julian of Norwich.

The instructor is Jerry Zeller, M.A., and the class will meet on:

Tuesdays, March 14 – April 18, 2017
from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in classroom 4.

The fee is $40.00.

The information provided in the brochure is incorrect, and we apologize for any confusion.

SIGN UP FOR A CLASS TODAY!  Click here.

In today’s Gospel we hear: “Jesus said to his disciples: you have heard that it has been said ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you…” He gives a number of sayings that were familiar to the people of his time –ways of dealing with certain situations, but then adds something new to each one. Jesus’ teaching stretches those who hear him to a new way of acting, a new way of thinking. This is where we read that Jesus tells us to “Love our enemies.” While these sayings of Jesus shocked those who heard him at his time, they challenge us to a new way of thinking and acting in our contemporary world. He has a different, a new way of dealing with tough situations. Do you find this Gospel challenging? Do you scratch your head and say, “I don’t know if this is what I want to door if I am capable of doing it.”

Next Sunday we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Korean Community’s presence at St. Francis Church. During these years they have grown tremendously and it is a blessing for us to have them here at St. Francis. Every year many adult Koreans are baptized at the Easter Vigil; they have many educational programs; a number of groups of the Legion of Mary; inspiring concerts; a young adult community and much more. Congratulations and may God Bless Fr. Michael, Sr. Hasang, your community leaders, and all your volunteers for all the good work that you do!

A special congratulations to the Dwelling Place that is celebrating its 40th Anniversary. The Franciscan Sisters of Allegany began this ministry to women 40 years ago. Since then they have provided shelter for women who are trying to get themselves “back on their feet” and live independently, have a job, and be responsible for their day to day lives. Through counseling and education, they help the women acquire the skills needed to accomplish their goal of responsible living. Sisters from other communities are involved with the day to day running of the facility. Congratulations!

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.

Statement of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, New York City

The mission statement of the Church of St.Francis of Assisi reads:

“We witness to our faith by ministering to everyone,
especially those who are poor, alienated or oppressed.”

We, the Friars and Staff of St. Francis Church, stand firm in fulfilling this mission especially for immigrants at this time of confusion and tension. Our mission comes from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, our Franciscan heritage and in union with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops who “believe in assisting all those who are vulnerable and fleeing persecution, regardless of their religion…welcoming newcomers and refugees is an act of love and hope.”

We have felt the anguish and pain of so many people. We stand in solidarity with them in our attempt to offer hope and whatever assistance we can offer. Our whole community stands ready to fulfill this mission, and our Migrant Center offers ongoing support to those who are in need of assistance with migrant issues. If there is anyone in need of assistance or has concerns about immigration matters, please contact our Migrant Center at the Church at 212-736-8500.

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.