Day of Recollection with Fr. Murray Bodo--April 24, 2004

Several members of the Franciscan Alumni Association were invited by Father Gil Wohler, FAA liaison with the Province of St. John the Baptist and pastor of St. Francis Seraph Parish, to attend a day of prayer at St. Francis Seraph Church on Saturday, April 24, 2004. Father Murray Bodo, OFM, was the speaker/discussion leader for the day.

   

Father Murray is a widely known writer, teacher, speaker, and authority on Saint Francis, who taught most recently at St. Bonaventure University. He has taught at several schools over the years, including Thomas More College and Saint Francis Seminary. He is frequently involved with the “Assisi Pilgrimage Program.” When in town (Cincinnati), Father Murray lives at the friary on Pleasant Street, just a couple blocks from St. Francis Seraph Church. 

   

During the morning and afternoon sessions, Father Murray shared insights about St. Francis, Bro. Juniper, and St. Clare. He recounted fascinating experiences from the time he spent with the great Buddhist Dali Lama and the famous psychologist Dr. Meninger. He told us about his "perfect day in France." He also inspired us with quotes and stories from people who have made a difference in the world, like Nelson Mandella, who said, "Our greatest fear is not that we're inadequate; it's that we're powerful beyond measure. We fear light, not darkness." In other words, we have great potential and fear of failure. Murray emphasized that we should not forget how to play -- for simple enjoyment, as we did when we were children. We should also feel good about ourselves, good enough to be able to "look at a full-length mirror and say, 'God likes you,' and 'I like you.'"

   

At the conclusion of the day of recollection, Father Murray signed copies of his books with personal inscriptions for many attendees who were interested.

       

Then the alumni board surprised Murray by giving him the association's Christian Life Award (an engraved plaque) and an official FAA shirt. Board president Pat Daly presented the award in the beautiful inner courtyard of St. Francis Seraph church.