The readings from Sunday, July 20 offer wisdom that stretches from Genesis to Jesus. The first reading opens to ancient Abraham paused on his journey with his tents under a great tree. Seeing three men on the horizon in the heat, Abraham went out to them and begged the strangers, “Please do not go on past your servant.” Abraham had deep spirituality, yet it is unclear if he knew that the LORD was present as he offered hospitality to the men. Abraham’s goodness was enough motivation for him to run into the tent to rush Sarah, "Quick, three measures of fine flour! Knead it and make rolls."

The staff and board at FAN joyfully celebrate the 90th birthday of Sr. Marie Lucey, OSF, Associate Director and a beloved presence in our community. Sr. Marie’s lifelong commitment to justice, peace, and the Franciscan way continues to inspire all who know her. We give thanks for her prophetic witness, deep compassion, and unwavering voice for the vulnerable.

Please join us in a prayer of gratitude for all the blessings in Sr. Marie’s life and the gifts she shares with us. Happy birthday, Sr. Marie!

Your voice is urgently needed today, Tuesday! The House of Representatives recently voted to pass a package of spending cuts, called rescissions, that were requested by the White House. H.R. 4 cancels $9.4 billion in previously approved federal funding for foreign assistance and public media. The Senate is expected to vote Tuesday or Wednesday of this week! If this rescissions bill passes, many more might follow, eliminating even more essential programs. Your voice can make a difference. Please act today!

FAN is eager to join our network’s voice to that of Catholic Relief Services—which assists the poor and vulnerable in over 100 countries around the world—to protect life saving aid before it is too late.

Please consider joining FAN and our partners in the Faithful Democracy Coalition for two meaningful opportunities to honor the legacy of Congressman John Lewis and protect the right to vote. Tonight, at 7:30 pm ET, a national webinar will bring together faith voices and congressional staff to explore how communities can help protect access to the ballot. Click here to register for the webinar. On Thursday, July 17 at 10:00 am ET, people of faith will gather at the House Triangle on Capitol Hill to encourage Members of Congress to support key legislation, including the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Click here to sign up for Thursday’s witness on Capitol Hill. Whether participating online, in person, or by helping spread the word, all are invited to be part of this shared witness. Click here to find another “Good Trouble Lives On” event near you.

Spots for the 2025 Franciscan Justice Leadership Conference: Love in Action are filling fast, and most general registration slots are now booked. Spots have been reserved for sponsors, and there are still openings for young adult participants.

Now is a great time to consider sponsoring the conference. Sponsors receive a range of benefits and make it possible for more people to join this powerful weekend of faith and justice. Click here to learn more about sponsorship options. You can also support a young adult by funding their registration. A gift of $250 offers a subsidized ticket scholarship, and $425 covers full registration for a young adult (excluding travel and lodging). If you're part of the general population and still hope to attend FJLC, you can join the waitlist in case additional spots become available.

The U.S. House of Representatives recently introduced H. Res. 317, a resolution calling for bold steps to reduce nuclear weapons and promote global disarmament. It urges Congress to renounce first use of nuclear weapons, limit presidential authority to launch nuclear attacks, and cancel plans for new nuclear arms, among other important measures.

This growing movement aims to raise awareness about the urgent risks posed by nuclear weapons and encourages people to contact their representatives to support policies that prioritize peace and justice. Click here to learn more about H. Res. 317 and take action. 

The JPIC committee members of St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes, NJ continue to participate in peaceful rallies in the area as well as public witness at a busy intersection.

The CT-RI FJC signed on in support of H.Res. 317, urging the United States to lead the world back from the brink of nuclear war and halt and reverse the nuclear arms race.

Upcoming Franciscan Justice Circle (FJC) gatherings:

Boston FJC: Wed. July 16 at 7:00 pm ET over Zoom