May 10-17, 2026
Friar's Footnotes by Fr. John Prenger, OFP
Hello to each and everyone of you.
The Scripture readings for Ascension Thursday are Acts 1: 1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1: 17-23; and Matthew 28: 16-20. The readings for the seventh weekend are Acts 1: 12-14; Psalm 27; 1 Peter 4; 13-16; and John 17: 1-11 Reminder that with Ascension Thursday we celebrate Jesus taking his throne at the right hand of the Father and begin our NOVENA of Pentecost, seeking a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Chapel Schedule
Noon Tuesday Eucharist (May 12), Fr. John presiding
Noon Thursday Ascension Eucharist, Fr. Jim presiding
5 pm Saturday Eucharist, Fr Jim presiding
SAYINGS OF THE SAINTS
"Whatever differences on points of doctrine may exist amongst the different denominations of Christians, all should be united in the bonds of charity, all should pray for one another, all should be willing to assist one another." Servant of God Fr. Demetrius Gallitzin, (1770-1840), known as the Apostle of the Alleghenies.
"This is what God's Kingdom is like: a bunch of outcasts and oddballs gathered at a table, not because they are rich or worthy or good, but because they are hungry, because they said yes. And there is always room for more."" Rachel Held Evans, who became a rising star as a blogger on areas of faith, till her sudden death in 1019. (I particularly like this thought, mainly because it describes our little faith community.)
That does it for me. God bless us in our yearning for more of God's Holy Spirit. Peace and all Good!
Fr. John ofp
Padre’s Pontifications by Fr. Jim McNeely
September 2025
A Pastoral Statement
September 16, 2025
As a community of people committed to following the example of Saints Francis and Clare, we are stunned by the senseless violence that occurred last week, which ended in the murder of Charlie Kirk. We condemn in the strongest possible language the use of violence and hate against anyone, regardless of their political leanings.
We call for all Christian people – and especially those who follow a Franciscan calling – to embrace the virtues of peace, love, toleration, and compassion. Pray earnestly for the repose of the soul of our brother, Charlie Kirk. Pray for his wife and family. Pray for those involved in this shooting. And most of all, pray for those who found pleasure in the senseless murder of an innocent person.
As a community of faithful followers of Jesus, we call all people to re-examine our hearts and find new ways to be Christian examples in our communities. And we renew our belief that real compassion is found not in loving those easy to love, but those who challenge our comfort zones and disagree with us on any level.
-Fr. John Prenger, OFP
Pastor and Protector of the Order
-Fr. Jim McNeely
Priest in Residence and Friend of Francis
