Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides) - “The Franciscan Missionary,” the magazine published by the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor, turns 75. Begun in Assisi, the magazine has played an important role in formation for the missions. “Formation should lead to the awareness that we all belong to a missionary fraternity. It should help religious and laity to live the apostolic dimension as an authentic gift of self, cultivate a spirituality of the missions, according to the Franciscan charism. This is what the magazine has always offered and hopes to continue offering in the future,” says the Director Fr. Ernesto Piacentini, OFM, recalling the history of the magazine.
The first issue of the magazine “The Franciscan Missionary” was published in 1933, with the subtitle “Monthly magazine illustrated by the Franciscan Friars Minor.” Back then, it had 20 pages and was mainly full of text, with several photos of missionaries.
From 1969 to 1986, the magazine was supported by contributors from other congregations such as the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, the Descalzed Carmelites, and the Servants of Mary. In the last 20 years, it has been given a new graphic design and a more frequent use of colors, as well as a boost in content. Maintaining a special sensibility for the people of the southern hemisphere and the Franciscan missions, it focuses on the current problems of integrations, inculturation, the peaceful coexistence among peoples and religions, with the goal of forming new generations in the Franciscan vision of fraternity and mission. Today, in Rome, it issues 5,000 copies, over 200 of which are sent abroad. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 6/11/2008)
