Lenten Evening Series

Lenten Evening Series: With Fr. Steven J. McMichael OFM Conv.

April 8, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
April 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
April 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

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Join us for a three-night journey of reflection and renewal with Friar Steven J McMichael, OFM Conv.. We will explore themes of resurrection, humility, and mercy through the lives and writings of Mary Magdalene and St. Francis of Assisi. These sessions are free to attend and open to all seeking a meaningful Lenten experience. 

Event Schedule & Themes

Day 1: Mary Magdalene – The Model of Resurrection Faith

April 8, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
What happened in the Garden on Easter Sunday morning (John 20)? Mary Magdalene’s journey of faith led her to the life-changing encounter with the Risen Christ. Her life of penance, discipleship, and ardent love for Jesus prepared her for this moment. Through medieval Franciscan art and spirituality, this session will reflect on Mary Magdalene as a model of faith, hope, and love.

Day 2: "Daily Jesus Humbly Comes to Us" – Francis of Assisi and the Eucharist

April 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
This presentation will explore how St. Francis of Assisi deeply appreciated the Eucharist, emphasizing its connection to the Incarnation, the role of the Holy Spirit, and its impact on discipleship. A special focus will be given to “God’s presence” in Francis’ eucharistic theology and how this sacred mystery continues to transform us today.

Day 3: Compassion and Mercy in the Writings of Francis of Assisi

April 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Drawing from contemporary Italian Franciscan studies, this presentation will delve into the theme of mercy and compassion in Francis' writings, particularly his Testament, Earlier Rule (1221), and Letter to the Minister. Mercy and compassion serve as the guiding principles of Francis’ entire life and spirituality. This session will highlight how these virtues are at the heart of Franciscan theology and practice.

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Meet Your Facilitator

Steven J. McMichael, OFM Conv., is an Associate Professor in the Theology Department at the University of Saint Thomas (Saint Paul, Minnesota). He has published three recent books: The Glory of Paradise: Risen Life in the Easter Octave Sermons of Bernardino da Siena (Tau Press, 2016), Mary Magdalene in the Medieval Franciscan Spirituality: Beloved Disciple and Apostle of the Apostles (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2022), and Pietro Maranesi, Francis of Assisi: Brother of All, translated and edited by Steven J McMichael (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2023). He is currently writing a book on the Descent of Jesus (Holy Saturday) in medieval Franciscan spirituality, theology, art, and preaching, and another on mercy and compassion in the writings of Francis, Clare, and the early Franciscan tradition.