Franciscan Connection
The Franciscan Center
Sponsored by the Franciscan Friars Conventual Ministering in Shamokin, Coal Township, and Trevorton.
Inspiration: Pope Francis wrote Laudato Sí, a letter written to everyone in the world. It was inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi who had a great love for the poor and for creation.
“I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all. Regrettably, many efforts to seek concrete solutions to the environmental crisis have proved ineffective, not only because of powerful opposition but also because of a more general lack of interest. Obstructionist attitudes, even on the part of believers, can range from denial of the problem to indifference…We require a new and universal solidarity. All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents.” (14)
Franciscan Center
The Franciscan Friars Conventual have been ministering in the anthracite coal region for 120 years!
In the summer of 2019 five young friars stayed at the Franciscan Center for the first part of an eight-week summer service learning immersion program called:
"Being Lesser Brothers & Preferential Options for the Poor".
This experience would take the small group of friars to Franciscan Ministries in Shamokin/Coal Township PA, Maryland, North Carolina & Kentucky.
They continued on to Latin America visiting Colombia & El Salvador, finishing in New Mexico with a border experience in El Paso Texas & Juárez, Mexico.
A special thank you to all who offered hospitality and opened their hearts in the greater Shamokin/Coal Township area!
We look forward to returning to the Shamokin area in 2023!
