NEW YORK — Friars may want to consider attending several educational events scheduled next year, including a preaching workshop in Tampa, Fla., in February, and a pilgrimage to Italy in May.
In addition, Provincial Vicar Dominic Monti, OFM, HNP secretary for formation and studies, recommends that those who want to apply for higher education programs contact him as soon as possible. Friars considering a sabbatical should contact F. Edward Coughlin, OFM, chair of the Province’s Ongoing Formation Committee.
The preaching workshop, Feb. 8 to 10 at the Franciscan Center in Tampa, will help friars “to rouse and inspire our communities to a deeper engagement with the life of discipleship,” according to a letter that accompanies the workshop registration form.
Sponsored by the HNP Evangelization Directorate, the workshop will explore how friars can make their homilies more imaginative, inspirational and Franciscan.
Dr. Thomas Long of the Candler School of Theology at Emory University will share homilies in the context of prayer services.
The workshop begins at 5 p.m. on Feb. 8 and ends at noon on Feb. 10. Since registration is limited to 30, attendees are encouraged to register soon. Cost is $175. A registration form will be mailed to friars soon.
From May 20 to 31, the Ongoing Formation Committee will sponsor a pilgrimage to Rome, Greccio, Assisi, La Verna and Bagnoregio. Limited to 12 friars, the LaVerna program is planned to be a time of renewal at some of the most sacred and historical places to Franciscans. The registration deadline for the pilgrimage is Jan. 31, 2010, with a $500 deposit.
The pilgrimage is being led by Edward and Thomas Hartle, OFM.
Other events for friars and partners-in-ministry are planned for 2010, including:
· Jan. 4 to 8 — interprovincial retreat in New Mexico
· Jan. 17 — HNP celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. at the University of Georgia
· May 22 — priestly ordination at St. Francis of Assisi Church, New York City