NEWS

Thousands of people have lost their lives following a series of devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. More than 47,000 have been killed, with countless more reportedly trapped, injured, and displaced.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity continues to draw media attention, with the Friars’ involvement in the annual event recognized in Our Sunday Visitor News. The article covered the history of the Week of Prayer in America, as well as the theology of Ecumenism and the life of Servant of God Fr. Paul Wattson, SA.  Fr. Jim Gardiner, SA, and Fr. Jim Loughran, SA, who were quoted in the article, gave their perspectives on Christian Unity and commented on this year’s theme, “Do Good; Seek Justice.” To read the story, click here.

Saint Francis removed himself of worldly interests, opting instead to follow the Gospel and connect himself to the teachings of Jesus. Brother Alfonso DeRuva, SA, chose to follow in Saint Francis’ footsteps four years ago, receiving his habit and entering the Society of the Atonement.

Each February, we observe Black History Month, recognizing the central role that African Americans have played in our country. Over the years at Graymoor, there have been several Black Friars who faithfully served the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement.

The Centro Pro Unione has launched phase three of its formative project, Mutual Accountability Desk for Ecumenism.

What began on the Holy Mountain of Graymoor as a period of eight days to pray for the union of all Christians has evolved into an annual worldwide ecumenical celebration.

In Lima, Peru, there is a movement of Christian Churches working together. Ecumenical work is of importance and fascination, and it’s what drew Brother Yasser Zamora, SA, to the Society of the Atonement.

From parochial ministries across the pond to caring for the sick north of the border, Brother Hugh MacIsaac, SA, delivered reconciliation and the Friars’ At-One-Ment message throughout his life.

Father Dan Callahan, SA, posed the questions during his homily: “When we watch television, what’s interesting? When we watch adventure movies, what’s interesting?”