All Invited to FI and FAN Events in November

HNP Communications Franciscan World

Two organizations that advocate for Franciscan ideals are holding events in November. All are welcome to the Franciscans International presentation in New York City and Franciscan Action Network’s gala in Washington, D.C.

Franciscans International invites friars and laypeople to a Nov. 10 presentation and reception in New York City. Kenneth Himes, OFM, professor of theological ethics at Boston College, will speak on “Franciscans, Human Rights and the Common Good” at 11 a.m. at the Church of St. John the Baptist at 210 West 31st Street in New York City.

Since its establishment in 1989, FI has used advocacy as a tool to prevent and address human rights abuse. The organization, which has offices in New York City and Geneva, Switzerland, works to reclaim the enteral role of human rights in the formulation of and framing of international public policy, and provides a voice at the United Nations.

FI has held events in New York City for the past few years as a way to acquaint people with its work. Joseph Rozansky, OFM, president of the Board of Directors of Franciscans International, said the events are helpful to both the Franciscans International staff and to those who support the organization’s work.

“It’s s a wonderful way for people to get to know what FI does,” said Joe, who is stationed in Chicago. “I enjoy talking to the people who attend. They’re often a mix of laypeople, sisters, and members of other male religious communities. This year’s event will give a nice feeling of collaboration in that it is taking place at the Capuchin Franciscans’ church that is just a block from our St. Francis of Assisi Church.”

Registration for the Nov. 10 event can be done by emailing newyork@fiop.org.

The Franciscan Action Network is holding an award benefit the week after FI’s event. All are welcome to attend the Nov. 15 gala at St. Francis Hall at 1340 Quincy St. NE in the nation’s capital.

FAN’s 10th Anniversary Award benefit on Thursday evening will recognize three organizations with whom FAN partners on a regular basis: CASA, an organization advocating for immigrants in Maryland, National Korean American Service and Education Consortium (NAKASEC), and the Interfaith Immigration Coalition. According to FAN, “these groups work hard every day to advocate with and support our immigrant and refugee brothers and sisters. Their message of welcoming the stranger and caring for those in need aligns perfectly with FAN’s mission, and we are honored to be able to uplift their work.” Guests may register through a link on FAN’s website.

FAN was established 10 years ago to amplify the justice efforts of Franciscan congregations, provinces and communities. Since 2008, it has been organizing people of faith to stand up for those who are marginalized.

“Despite a limited budget and small staff, FAN has been successful in bringing a Franciscan voice to the national conversation about the moral values of our country,” said Patrick Carolan, executive director, and Sr. Marie Lucey, associate director, in a letter. “We are an actively involved faith organization in Washington, D.C., which addresses immigration and refugees, care for creation, poverty and human rights, racism and peacemaking.”

Information about the Franciscan Action Network can be found on its Facebook page.

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