Franciscan Schools Australia (FSA) Pilgrimage
26th March – 12 April
Assisi, Italy
Embarking on a pilgrimage is a wonderful opportunity, and traveling to Assisi in April with Franciscan Schools Australia to explore the remarkable lives of St Francis and St Clare was truly a gift. With the upcoming launch of our Franciscan Charism book “Enflamed with God’s Love” in August, it was a wonderful opportunity to revisit the places which formed the actions and unique spirituality of these amazing saints of faith, spirituality, peace and poverty.
From the stunning views of Mount La Verna to the mysterious caves of Greccio, the peaceful atmosphere of San Damiano to the sacredness of the Porzinuncula, the quietude of the tombs to the lively energy of the Piazza del Comune, our visit to Assisi and the Franciscan sites was filled with spirituality and a palpable sense of peace.
My fellow pilgrims, I had a truly delightful time connecting and spending time with people from various parts of Australia who are associated with Franciscan school. We were thankful for the support and wisdom provided by the Friars who accompanied us – Stephen Bliss OFM and Fr Paul Rout OFM.
Photo 1: Francis, Photo 2: San Damiano, Photo 3: Mariano Fare, Photo 4: Statue at the Carceri, Photo 5: Statue at the Carceri, Photo 6: Statue at the Carceri, Photo 7: Statue at the Carceri, Photo 8: Saint Clare and Francis outside the Porziuncola, Photo 9: Stunning Rocco Maguire, Photo 10: The Sanctuary at Greccio, Saint Francis Nativity 1223
2024 Mission and Pastoral Care Leaders’ Gathering
29th – 30th April
Mercy Partners Place, QLD
Each year, we bring together the Mission and Pastoral Care Leaders from our various ministries in health, aged care, education and community, family, and disability services for a time of gathering, connecting, sharing, and collaborating.
This year, our gathering took place at Mercy Partners Place in Northgate. We were delighted to welcome many new leaders and ministries joining us for the first time, and we eagerly anticipate integrating them into the Mercy Partners family.
To enrich our exploration and deepen this year’s theme: personal spirituality, we invited Fr Chris Gleeson SJ to share his wisdom and lived experiences with us. Fr Chris gently guided us on our personal spiritual journey with his presentation: “The Inner and Outer Journey of Mercy.” We recorded the Zoom meeting (apologies for the occasional sound issues), feel free to view Fr. Chris’ presentation by clicking the button below.
The following day was a day of deep reflection and action, inspired by the words of Fr Chris. We delved into the power of symbolism, charism, spiritual language, narratology, and a range of other impactful tools. Through engaging discussions and the sharing of personal experiences, we collectively unearthed valuable insights for our ministry practices.
We shared the resources offered by Mercy Partners, including prayers, charism books, and thought-provoking “Moments” reflections. We welcomed suggestions for additional resources that participants deemed beneficial. Moreover, mission and pastoral care leaders generously shared their own valuable resources. As the day drew to a close, we focused on the beauty of everyday rituals and blessings, encouraging participants to pair up, craft heartfelt blessings, and exchange them with one another.
Until we all meet again next year, let’s continue to inspire and support each other on this meaningful journey.
Watch here:
