Dear John, The friars with whom I worked and interacted were my first experience of Franciscans. In them I found warmth, kindness, humor, and human vulnerability. I wanted to emulate their possession of those qualities in my own life. Hi, my name is Sharon Cross, project manager at Franciscan Media. You may have heard my voice on one of our audiobooks, Saint of the Day, or the “Exploring our Faith” segment from American Catholic Radio. I came to St. Anthony Messenger Press (Franciscan Media) in 1997. St. Anthony Messenger’s managing editor at the time hoped that I would grow into an assistant editor’s position, but I was more drawn to the online presence that was just being born back then. I had the opportunity to expand that original editorial assistant’s job into one of my own creation, as I was encouraged to develop seasonal web features for Advent/Christmas, Lent/Easter, Mary, St. Anthony of Padua, and, of course, St. Francis of Assisi. In recent years I’ve focused on producing audio versions of our print books—what I like to refer to as God’s trick to get me to do spiritual reading. My earlier assignments brought me into contact with the American hierarchy and issues affecting the universal Church. However, listening to the words of spiritual giants such as Henri Nouwen, Ronald Rolheiser, and Joan Chittister, as well as Franciscan experts such as Richard Rohr, Murray Bodo, and Margaret Carney, has had a direct impact on my personal faith. I’m continuing to learn that it is possible to be a Trappist monk like Thomas Merton, a Jesuit priest like Pope Francis, a Benedictine oblate (like me), or any person of good will, and have a Franciscan heart. Will you now join me now? Franciscan Media needs your help bringing Christ to one another. Our 128-year missionary work is only made possible with your generous support. This summer our goal is to raise $80,000 dollars by October. As with so many people and organizations, 2020 impacted Franciscan Media. We use a lot of paper to print our heart-warming books, St. Anthony Messenger magazine, and Homily Helps. Our paper and printing costs nearly doubled and last week the US and international postage increased their rates. Being called to ministry is a large investment and we need your help. We are all called, we are all chosen. Please help me share God’s love to people in need. |
