After a quick business meeting, the St. Francis of Assisi Secular Franciscans gathered with the Franciscan Sisters and Friars for an Advent prayer service which focused on the role of St. Joseph. An excerpt from the writings of Richard Rohr reflected on the fact that St. Joseph had faith before the angel spoke to him explaining Mary’s miraculous conception. He had faith! Do we have that kind of faith?
- Seculars, Friars and Sisters gather for the Advent prayer service.
- Image of St. Joseph set up for the prayer service
A delicious meal followed the Advent prayer service.
The Seculars presented a donation to Sister Mary Ann for use in St. Francis of Assisi School, the alma mater of many of these seculars.
Soon it was time for a fun game of “Dirty Santa”. Game rules were given.

Each person may select one present from the table, or they may “steal” a present from another person.
And so the fun began!
- Ohhhhhh!
- Look, a statue of St. Francis.
- And St. Francis and the Wolf.
- A beautiful gold cross on a stand.
- Watch me, I’m going to “steal” the book on the Year of Mercy that Sister Annette has.
- Nooooo, I liked that Christmas cactus!
- What is it that I have gotten in this gift bag?
- Where is that gold hanging cross?
- And a good time was had by all!
- He is always about having a little fun!
- This gift is great; “May Your Faith Be Bigger Than Your Fears”, this is just like our message on St. Joseph!