Saturday Sept. 11, 2004

“Are you a monk?” I suspect this is one of the most common questions asked the friars by strangers on the street or at the airport. I suspect for every person who has the courage to step up and ask, there are hundreds who quietly hold the question in their heads. Unfortunately, nowadays young people have no idea why this sandaled man is wearing a hooded robe, rope, and rosary. The centuries old religious habit immortalized in art and seen on every continent is unrecognizable by many people – including Catholics.

When we respond, “No, I’m a friar”, the second question, “What’s the difference?” is so anticipated that the response is already on our lips. I often say, “Well, we’re like monks, but a bit different. Monks generally stay at home; we’re on the road”. Although the answer is all too brief and lacks any historical reference, in essence, it’s true. In fact, in the early years of the community founded in the 13th century, Saint Francis imagined the friars living on the road as mendicants, or beggars. As the community grew into the hundreds, and soon thousands, this somewhat poetic spiritual ideal proved impossible.

Although the material application of this gospel ideal could not be long sustained by many of his followers, the more important spiritual application would be. This is why Franciscans over the years have preached this all-important message to the world – before the eyes of God, we are all homeless beggars. Although while here on earth some may live in mansions, all of us are “passing through”. Yes, Mr. Trump, you are indeed a homeless man.

In the Holy Gospel we read about two men – one built his house on sand, the other stone. Sad to say, some people build their lives here as if somehow they and their possessions will escape the winds and the waves of time. These indeed wear everyone down and wash everything away. Saint Francis reveals the secret of true life – for monks and moguls alike, including friars – “Love God, serve others, and travel light!”

Fr. Glenn Sudano, CFR
Community servant (superior) residing at St. Felix Friary in Yonkers
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