30/06/2026
Formed by Prayer, Study, and the Work of Our Hands
St. Joseph Pastoral Center
June 30, 2026
Today was another beautiful reminder that formation in the Franciscan Disciples of Mercy is much more than attending classes or spending long hours in prayer. It is about allowing God to shape every part of our lives. Our formation includes the human, spiritual, community, pastoral, academic, and manual dimensions. Each one is essential, and today we were reminded once again of the beauty of "manualia".
We were blessed to have our new FDM Nigerian brothers—Jeremiah, Frederick, and Rafael—join us in today's manualia before they begin their theological studies this coming August. Before entering the classroom, they first entered the school of humility. Before opening books, they opened their hearts to serve. Together, we worked, laughed, helped one another, and shared the joy of serving our community through simple tasks.
To many people, manual work may seem ordinary or even tiring. But for a Franciscan friar, it is a sacred part of formation. It teaches us that no work is beneath us because every task becomes an act of love when it is done for God and for our brothers. Whether we are cleaning, gardening, carrying heavy loads, or caring for our surroundings, we learn patience, responsibility, discipline, simplicity, and gratitude. More importantly, we learn that our hands are meant not only to receive blessings but also to become instruments of service.
Manualia also teaches us to see the world through the eyes of St. Francis of Assisi. He called the sun his brother, the moon his sister, and every creature a member of God's family. While working outdoors, we become more aware that we are surrounded by God's wonderful creation. We hear the birds sing, we see plants growing, we touch the soil, and we encounter even the smallest creatures. In these simple moments, God gently reminds us that His love is not reserved for us alone. Every creature exists because it is loved by Him. We are not the only ones who belong to God; all creation belongs to Him and reflects His goodness.
Manualia also becomes a time of silent prayer. While our hands are busy, our hearts can remain united with God. In the quiet rhythm of work, He teaches us lessons that cannot be found in books. He forms us to become humble servants who find joy not in recognition but in serving faithfully, even in hidden ways.
As our brothers Jeremiah, Frederick, and Rafael prepare to begin their theological studies, today's manualia reminds us that true theology begins with humility. Knowledge is important, but it must always be rooted in prayer, simplicity, fraternity, and service. A Franciscan friar is not formed by books alone but also by the soil he tills, the broom he carries, the garden he cares for, and the brothers with whom he works.
May we always treasure manualia as an essential part of our Franciscan vocation. Through these simple acts of service, God continues to shape us into men after the heart of Christ—humble, joyful, compassionate, and deeply connected with God, with one another, with ourselves, and with all creation.
"Lord, make us instruments of Your peace—not only through our words, but also through the work of our hands."
