Franciscan 8th Centenary, Westminster

On 9th December 2009, Srs. Rose and Clare attended a Symposium in Westminster Cathedral Hall, celebrating the eighth centenary of the papal approval of the First Order's Rule and Life. Sr. Clare's parents, who were visiting Monte Bre, also came with them. They all travelled by bus from Canterbury. On arriving in Westminster, they were first able to attend Mass in the Cathedral. The afternoon Symposium, entitled, 'Franciscan Ideals and Influence' consisted of four talks. It was introduced and led by Br. Seamus Mulholland OFM.

Above: Br. Seamus introducing the programme with Br. Michael Copps and Sr. Clare

left: Sr. Francis Teresa giving her talk. To her right, Sr. Clare, Br. Seamus, Leon Davison and Br. Michael.

Right: Sr. Clare giving talk.

The first speaker, Br. Michael Copps, OFM Provincial Minister, spoke about 'Franciscan Life is Life Together'. Then, Sr. Frances Teresa Downing OSC spoke on the influence of St. Clare on the Franciscan movement. The third speaker, Sr. Clare Knowles FMSL, talked about St. Francis' Canticle of Sir Brother Sun as a model for conversion. The fourth speaker was Leon Davison SFO National Minister, who talked about the development of the SFO from its origins until the present. There was time after each talk for questions from the audience. There was a break during which Srs. Francoise, Rose and Magdalene served coffee and tea for all. Secular Franciscans attended from all over the country, as a national meeting preceded the Symposium. A group came from FISC Canterbury, as well as friars OFM and Capuchin from Houses including Chilworth, Woodford, Oxford and Pantasaph. FMSL Sisters attended from Littlehampton, Burgess Hill, Canterbury and Copthorne and Poor Clares from various Houses including Arundel, Hollington and Arkley. In total, around a hundred people attended the event. It was an encouraging celebration of the growth of the Franciscan movement in its various branches up to the present day and the unity of the whole Franciscan family.