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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]

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:  [email protected]