FRANCISCAN CHARITIES
SAINT ANTHONY BREAD
Ministries
Please consider becoming an active partner in supporting our ministries, our work and our lives.
We would love to be aware of and share in your intentions at our daily masses and during our prayers.
Do you feel called to the Franciscans way of life? We can help you become more familiar with us and guide you along the path to fulfilling life.
Dear Friend,
Saint Anthony of Padua was a Franciscan living in Italy. Even though he died at the age of 36 years, he was known for his great preaching and teaching. It is now 800 years later - Saint Anthony is one of the most beloved Saints. Most of all, he is known as the finder of lost articles! He is also the patron Saint of Portugal and of travelers. He still has the title -"Friend of the Poor!" "Saint Anthony Bread" is the common expression for donations given in honor of this Saint to reach out and to help the needy."
Today the Franciscans try to live in the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi - "to live the Gospel life". We follow the traditions of Saint Anthony as one of the greatest Franciscans and a true friend of the poor.
We try to live the Gospel life in our service - here are few of them -
Parishes - especially our inner cities.
Prison Ministry - throughout the state of Illinois.
Native Americans - especially in Alaska, Michigan & Wisconsin.
Confessors and Preachers - the sacrament of healing and reconciliation.
Chaplaincies - firemen, policemen, nursing home & hospitals.
Outreach Centers - direct help to the needy in times of crisis.
Education - enabling the Franciscan Mission at Quincy University.
We have Friars serving in Native American Ministries, especially in Alaska. We have chaplains in prisons, hospitals, convents and homes for the elderly. We have Friars in High Schools in Cleveland and in Chicago. Many Friars are involved in parish ministries. We reach out in many new and different ways to the poor and marginalized. We work with hospices, social agencies, art & music ministries, the Hispanic Community, the African American community, preaching ministry, schools and Universities, prayer ministry, media...and this list goes on and on!
We cannot do this alone. We have our Donors and Benefactors who partner with our Ministry and help us follow the examples of Saint Anthony and Saint Francis. You may already be one of our friends who make many great things happen - Thank You again so much.
Or you may be a very special person who could reach out to give us a helping hand! We need you! Any gift is certainly appreciated.
We remember all of our "partners" in our daily prayers! You are part of the Franciscan family. Please remember the Friars in your prayers too!
Peace and all good!
Fr. Bob Sieg, O.F.M.
