Between the Altar and the Sidewalk

 

Now that I am about to complete my fourth year as Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi and Guardian of the Friary, I imagine a conversation between St. Francis and the Pope. St. Francis asks: “Your Holiness, where do you want me to send my friars?” And the Pope answers: “31st Street.” My confidence in the Pope’s response is grounded in my experience of Franciscan life and ministry here in mid-town Manhattan.

During our long and hopefully glorious history, the Franciscan Friars of Holy Name province have been an abiding and reassuring presence in New York City. Next year we will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the St. Francis Breadline which was started during the Great Depression by just one friar, Brother Gabriel Mehler, OFM, who was very concerned for  the great number of homeless and hungry people he saw on the streets of the west side of Manhattan. Clearly, this ministry is the most beloved of the friars who have served here over the years, especially because there is such a significant connection between what happens at the altar and on the sidewalk.

 After all, it is in this church which welcomes all people, the young and the old, the rich and the poor, men and women speaking different languages, representing many different cultures and cherish special and sacred traditions, that we come together as brothers and sisters sharing the same faith.

 It is at this altar that we hear the Word of God, pray the Our Father, share the sign of peace, and most importantly, join together as one family united in love at the Eucharistic table of the Lord!

Yes, my friends in the Risen Lord, there is indeed quite the connection between the St. Francis Breadline and St. Francis Church and it happens all because of you!

Peace and all good!

 Fr. Jerome J. Massismino, OFM
 Pastor and Guardian