Franciscan Institute

05/11/2026

NEW RELEASE! 🥳
The Writings of Francis of Assisi & His Hagiographical Sources: A Primer for Readers of the Tradition by Michael F. Cusato, OFM.

This primer provides a concise overview of the writings of Francis of Assisi and the hagiographical tradition that emerged in the century following his influential life. The revival of interest in Francis and his spiritual legacy has been further galvanized by the Second Vatican Council's call for religious communities to reconnect with the historical foundations of their unique missions and contributions to the Church.

This primer offers a succinct overview of the writings of Francis of Assisi and the hagiographical tradition that his compelling personality and spirituality inspired in the century after his seminal life. The resurgence of interest in Francis and his charism has been enhanced after the call of the....

05/03/2026

The Future of Franciscan Studies Conference
An online-only Summer Conference hosted by Dr. Luke Togni, Research Fellow, Franciscan Institute.

This online conference will examine both developments and new lines of inquiry in the various facets of Franciscan Studies (theology, philosophy, history, liturgy, art, contemporary Franciscan life and spirituality) and the challenges facing the pursuit of Franciscan Studies in the current academic, cultural, and economic moments.

Registration is now open: https://sbu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cFGX8VVQ7VLpsGO

04/30/2026

Building the Perfect Bonfire: Franciscan Choices in a Secular World
The 2026 Secular Franciscan workshop will be hosted by Dr. Rod Hewlett, OSF, DA.

Building the Perfect Bonfire is a three-part workshop that combines Franciscan tradition, personal experience, and practical tools for Gospel-centered decision-making:
personally, communally, and publicly.

Based on The Bonfire of the Verities: Franciscan Perspectives on Decision-Making and Choice (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2025).
Dates: Saturdays, June 6, 13, and 20, 2026. 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (ET)

REGISTER here:
https://sbu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8BVPPOzlU3U5mUS

04/29/2026

Join a book club this summer 📚👀.
How do we make ethical decisions in both our personal and professional lives?
Traditionally, people were taught ethical principles and basic moral norms. However, today, we realize that before we can construct or apply these principles and norms, we first need to understand the worldview that underpins them.
This series aims to help participants explore the significant moral frameworks we use to develop our principles and practices.

REGISTER now, space is limited.
https://sbu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eXyM7yVczMV0IYe

04/28/2026

Explore the Franciscan Institute’s 2026 Summer Programs! This summer, the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure invites you to explore a rich lineup of programs designed to deepen faith, spark thoughtful dialogue, and engage the Franciscan intellectual and spiritual tradition. From book discussions and practical workshops to major conferences marking the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death, these events offer meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection and community — whether you join in person or online.
Take a deeper look at the courses being offered and mark your calendars!
www.sbu.edu/franciscanconf26 for more information

Join St. Bonaventure University's Franciscan Institute for on-campus and online conferences and programs about the Franciscan Intellectual Tradition.

04/01/2026

03/13/2026

Check out our newest book, "The Old Folks' Child" by Marlene De La Cruz-Guzman!

Order from Franciscan Institute Publications today: https://www.franciscanpublications.com/products/the-old-folks-child-poetic-meditations-on-sr-thea-bowman-the-franciscan-servant-of-god?_pos=1&_sid=ffb6e2043&_ss=r&variant=44015560294460

02/26/2026

ALL Conventual, Capuchin, and OFM friars
Join together at St. Bonaventure University on June 10-13, 2026, for the celebration of Transitus, 800 years together.

Speakers:
Joshua Benson, PhD, on "The Testament: Remembering in an Era of Change"
Jay Hammond, PhD, on "The Admonitions: Living in an Era of Change"
Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conventual, on "What I Heard: Responding to our Era of Epochal Change"

Presiders- Preachers:
Sean Cardinal O’Malley, OFM. Cap.
Bishop Michael Martin, OFM. Conventual

https://www.sbu.edu/academics/academic-resources/franciscan-institute/programs-conferences
Register now, space is limited. More information and a flyer are available through the link.

02/25/2026

NEW RELEASE 🤩

Embrace the journey of Sr. Thea Bowman, ahead of her canonization, through the poetic storytelling and insights of Marlene De La Cruz-Guzman. Thea has passionately championed racial and social justice, striving for a more inclusive Catholic Church.

This book presents, in moving poetic form, the journey of the amazing Sister Thea Bowman, a dynamic Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration who is now on the path to canonization. Sister Thea’s vision of a more inclusive Catholic Church enriched by the many cultures of its faithful shaped her mes...

02/04/2026

There is much media buzz on the newly canonized saint Carlo Acutis. If you have already (if you haven't- you should!) read our first-hand recalling "Carlo Acutis: In the Footsteps of Francis and Clare of Assisi" by Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino here: https://www.franciscanpublications.com/products/carlo-acutis-in-the-footsteps-of-francis-and-clare-of-assisi?utm_source=copyToPasteBoard&utm_medium=product-links&utm_content=web
Next on your list should be this incredible episode of Carlo Acutis in the series "Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints". The entire series can be thought-provoking and insightful. The stand-out episode on St. Carlo reflects on what it truly means to live an exceptional life, albeit short and simple, such as Carlo's.

By choosing to highlight Carlo, whose life was relatively short and simple in comparison with his fellow saints, the series offers an insightful—and perhaps counterintuitive—reflection on what it truly means to live an exceptional life.