Our Walk Together

Every small step counts towards positivity. Franciscan principles guide us in violent times. Humility allows for steadier courage. Nonviolence starts with our speech. Daily practices help maintain peace. Boundaries protect life and invite accountability. Forgiveness should lead to change. Peace is a communal effort, not just personal. Love can refuse harm while still being compassionate. Concrete actions are essential for real change. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

. Understanding failure through the lens of Franciscan wisdom. How humility and poverty lead to spiritual liberation. The transformative power of embracing vulnerability and community. Hashtags: #FranciscanWisdom #EmbraceFailure #SpiritualJourney Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Catholics must speak out on moral issues. Silence can be mistaken for consent. Christian nationalism distorts Catholic teachings. Catholic social teaching emphasizes human dignity. Political engagement is a moral duty for Catholics. Matthew 25 calls for action towards the marginalized. Economies should serve people, not the other way around. Faith without action is incomplete. Future generations will judge us by our actions. We must reflect on our values in political choices. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Easter matters beyond the Sunday celebration. Franciscan spirituality invites us to breathe hope into ordinary moments. Living as Easter people means seeing the world differently. Francis's journey teaches us about gradual transformation. Our spiritual walks often involve slow movements toward love. The heart of Franciscan living is found in community and family. Anxiety can disrupt our peace and connection with others. Franciscan wisdom offers pathways to reclaim peace. Easter hope is found in everyday moments and interactions. We are called to be instruments of peace in a hurting world. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Our walk together begins now as we walk our way through Lent. Francis showed us something different, meeting God in quiet moments. What if Lent became less about giving up and more about opening up? Your kitchen might become holy ground through these simple choices. Can we learn from his quiet heart? Even five minutes of holy quiet bears fruit. Our homes sing with Franciscan music when we listen closely. While our phones ping and screens glow, his simple wisdom lights our path. Each moment holds holy potential. May God bless you with his voice this Lent. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

The Franciscan way invites us to return to what matters most. Living simply allows us to hold things lightly and focus on what truly matters. Sharing our lives creates islands of hope in our communities. Franciscan poverty is about freedom from excess, not having nothing. Listening is key to healing divisions and fostering understanding. Small steps can lead to significant changes in our lives. Community flourishes when we treat each other as family. Honest conversation opens sacred spaces between us. Old wisdom can address modern challenges effectively. Each person carries God's image, deserving of love and respect. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

The Beatitudes outline a way of life focused on humility and compassion. They provide a refreshing perspective on finding hope and joy. The teachings challenge traditional ideals of power and success. Each Beatitude follows a pattern of condition and promise. Mourning connects us to others and opens the door to healing. Meekness is a strength rooted in restraint and kindness. Hunger for righteousness aligns us with God's vision for humanity. Living the Beatitudes requires intentional action in daily life. Small acts of bravery can reflect God's love in significant ways. The Beatitudes are a timeless guide to living with purpose and compassion. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Beatitudes 02:41 Historical Context of the Beatitudes 05:32 Understanding the Structure and Depth of the Beatitudes 06:50 Relevance of the Beatitudes in Modern Life 08:07 Exploring the First Beatitudes: Humility and Mourning 09:16 The Strength of Meekness 10:27 Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness 11:31 Living Out the Remaining Beatitudes 12:53 Taking Action on the Beatitudes 15:11 Conclusion: The Timeless Relevance of the Beatitudes Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Brother Francisco OSB is a solemnly professed monk at St. Vincent Arch Abbey. Benedictines follow the Rule of St. Benedict, emphasizing community and prayer. The vows of obedience, stability, and conversion of life are central to Benedictine life. St. Vincent Arch Abbey is known for its active ministry and community involvement. Brother Francisco's journey to monastic life began with a strong sense of community at St. Vincent College. Prayer must include specific time and place for it to be effective. Lectio Divina is a key practice in Benedictine prayer life. The connection between Benedictines and Franciscans is historically significant. A prayerful life requires intentionality and a turning of the heart towards God. Brother Francisco emphasizes the importance of scripture in prayer. The essence of prayer is rooted in humility and surrender. Younger generations seek deeper theological understanding from the church. Authenticity in faith is crucial for engaging youth. Distinctive religious symbols can spark meaningful conversations. Community support is vital for a fulfilling religious life. Joy in service is a key aspect of religious vocation. Prayer is the foundation for discernment in one's vocation. Engaging with the youth requires addressing their genuine questions. The church must adapt to attract younger members effectively. Discernment involves both prayer and practical action. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

New Year is a time for reflection and intention setting. Resolutions should reflect deeper purposes beyond mere aspirations. Service to others is a core value of Secular Franciscans. Prayer and reflection help maintain a commitment to resolutions. Humility and simplicity guide the resolution process. SMART goals provide a framework for actionable resolutions. Reflection on past experiences informs future goals. Celebrating small victories fosters motivation and gratitude. Adjusting resolutions shows growth and adaptability. Each resolution can be an act of faith and devotion. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

I appreciate you listening to this Podcast, however I would suggest that you also view the Video version. Available On the Our Walk Together Channel on YouTube The first nativity scene was created by St. Francis in 1223. St. Francis's vision transformed how Christians celebrate Christmas. The nativity scene embodies a profound understanding of love. St. Francis connected poverty and humility as inseparable twins. The first nativity scene was a community effort in Greccio. St. Francis aimed to make faith tangible through physical experiences. The tradition of the nativity scene spread rapidly across Europe. Pope Nicholas IV established a permanent nativity scene in Rome. St. Francis's legacy teaches the importance of simple expressions of faith. The nativity scene remains relevant and meaningful today. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

The Franciscan tradition offers a unique perspective on Advent preparation. Simplicity and joy are central to the Franciscan approach. Nature can be a profound source of spiritual experience during Advent. Community service is essential in recognizing Christ in others. Joy is rooted in our relationship with God, not external circumstances. The Advent wreath prayers provide a structured spiritual focus. Transforming waiting moments into sacred encounters enhances mindfulness. Franciscan values guide us in countering consumer culture during the holidays. Meaningful connections can be fostered even in a digital age. Spiritual preparation involves both personal reflection and communal action. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Embracing gratitude transforms our perspective on life. Franciscan spirituality emphasizes simplicity and community. Living simply allows us to appreciate the small joys. Gratitude multiplies when shared with others. Nature serves as a reminder of life's beauty and wonder. Prayer nurtures a grateful heart and fosters reflection. Acts of service express gratitude and strengthen community bonds. Gratitude can promote healing and forgiveness. Practicing mindfulness helps us recognize moments of gratitude. Cultivating gratitude is a habit that enriches our lives. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

The Rosary is a journey, offering peace and introspection. It serves as a tapestry of faith woven through centuries. St. Dominic played a pivotal role in shaping the Rosary's place in Christian life. The Franciscan crown rosary emphasizes the joys of Mary. Praying the Rosary integrates into daily life for Franciscans. The Rosary acts as a spiritual compass for Franciscans. Meditating on the mysteries deepens the dialogue with God. Creating the right environment enhances the prayer experience. Simplicity and humility are key in Franciscan spirituality. The Rosary can transform daily spiritual routines. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Remember when you first stepped into a grand cathedral, and your gaze was pulled upward by the towering arches and intricate stained glass? That feeling of awe, once a cornerstone of Catholic worship, seems to be fading. In a time when ancient rituals meet modern interpretations, many wonder if we've lost touch with the sacred wonder that once drew people in. As we explore this shift, we'll shed light on why this change is happening and what it means for the faithful today. Discovering the reasons behind this transformation could lead us back to moments that inspire true reverence in our spiritual lives. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

This episode is dedicated to the St Patrick Fraternity in Buffalo, NY Fraternity is the bedrock of the secular Franciscan order, emphasizing community, love, and unity. Fraternity is lived out through simplicity, humility, and service to others. Technology can be used to enhance fraternity by connecting members and providing support. Embracing fraternity enriches individual experiences and contributes positively to the lives of others. Introduction: The Bedrock of the Secular Franciscan Order Fraternity: Cornerstone of the Secular Franciscan Order Living Out Fraternity: Simplicity, Humility, and Service Service as the Ultimate Expression of Fraternity Challenges in Building Fraternity in a Connected but Isolated World Fraternity: The Lifeline of the Secular Franciscan Order Embracing Fraternity: Our Walk Together Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

The Franciscan vocation is rooted in the teachings of St. Francis and focuses on living a life of simplicity, humility, and service. There are different types of Franciscan vocations, including the friars, the Poor Clares, and the secular Franciscans, each offering unique ways of living out Franciscan principles. The discernment process and formation stages are crucial for those considering a Franciscan vocation, providing a clear path and deepening commitment and understanding. Community life, prayer and contemplation, and service and outreach are essential aspects of the Franciscan way of life, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The secular Franciscan order allows lay people to commit to a Franciscan way of life while remaining in their everyday roles, balancing family, work, and spiritual commitments. Living a Franciscan vocation brings deeper meaning and fulfillment to everyday life, integrating core values of humility, service, and love for all creation. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

This episode provides an introduction to the Secular Franciscan Order, emphasizing that its members are everyday people inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. Unlike monks or nuns, Secular Franciscans blend spiritual commitments with their busy lives, focusing on values like simplicity, peace, and compassion. The script discusses daily practices such as prayer, meditation, and scripture reading, as well as community involvement through local fraternities. It highlights the Franciscan principles of humility, service, simplicity, and environmental stewardship. Additional focus is given to the challenges and rewards of this lifestyle, including the balance between secular and spiritual commitments, and the importance of community support. The episode concludes with encouragement for those interested in exploring this path and provides contact information for further inquiries. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

In this episode, I talk about Franciscan prayer. What it's all about, how it happens. What? What do we talk about when we talk about Franciscan prayer? Sometimes people think this is just for those of us who are Franciscans, but it's not really. It's for everybody. And maybe by listening today or watching today. You'll get a. Better understanding of what Franciscan prayer is. This is also meant to kind of remind my brothers and Sister Franciscans. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

Profession as a secular Franciscan involves a conscious choice to shape one's life around the core ideals of poverty, humility, and simplicity. The profession signifies a commitment to living in harmony with all of creation and making a positive impact on the world. The process of formation and discernment prepares individuals for their profession and deepens their understanding of the Franciscan way of life. Professed secular Franciscans have responsibilities to live a life of poverty, humility, and simplicity, actively participate in their Franciscan community, and be witnesses to the gospel in their daily lives. Being a professed secular Franciscan offers the benefits of a deeper sense of purpose, a supportive community, and opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com

This Is the Audio of the Rite of Profession at St Patrick Fraternity on 2/18/24.Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFS For further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.com or contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com