MINNEAPOLIS-The Franciscan Federation Conference had about 500 enthusiastic participants who gathered July 9-12 in Minneapolis, Minn., to celebrate A Franciscan Dynamic: Right Relationship with the theme Care for the Earth, Care for Each Other. The evening began with honoring the immigrant heritage and contributions of the Mung people in the area. The Mung people helped the U.S. during the time of the Vietnam War. Pictured here is a young comedian/rapper who entertained the group with humor and poignant insights.

Two marvelous speakers, Sr. Marya Grathwohl, OSF, from Oldenburg, Ind., and the author of “Dead Man Walking,” Sr. Helen Prejean, CSJ, who is also an associate with the Oldenburg Franciscans, offered presentations. The two engaged the Franciscans with their storytelling and perspectives about the Earth and our relationship to her and to one another. Many times the group was enthralled with the message of this dynamic duo because they so authentically witnessed to the lives of those who have drunk deeply of the power of Mother Earth and joined in the pain and suffering of people on death row as well as the victims’ families. Their commitment to personal, spiritual and cultural transformation and advocacy for human rights spoke volumes. Throughout these days, Sr. Mary Elizabeth Imler, OSF, of Frankfort, and Br. Tom Grady of Brooklyn, N. Y., wove reflective responses to the Third Order Rule and how it specifically related to keynote presentations. Sr. Melanie Paradis, OSF, Wheaton Franciscan, coordinated liturgical experiences, which nourished and sustained our spirits. For pictures of these days please click here.

The members of the Federation unanimously voted not only to reaffirm the resolution Care for the Earth, Care for Each Other, but also decided on common and regional accountabilities for this coming year. The Federation also stressed the need to pray for and advocate for a peaceful and productive resolution to the war in Iraq, particular and intertwined conflicts in the Mid-East and immigration concerns in the U.S. As the facilitator of this process, I was very gratified by the sense of energy and spirit that continue to be engaging in these critical issues. For more information on this resolution, visit http://www.franfed.org/Earth%20Resolution.htm. To delve more deeply into the variety of work planned at the regional level, please go the http://www.franfed.org/