Celebrating the 750th Death Anniversary of Saint Bonaventure

July 16, 2024438 Views

In appreciation of Saint Bonaventure’s contribution to the Order and to the Church as a whole, the Conventual Franciscan friars in the Philippines gathered together on July 15, 2024 at St. Maximilian Friary in Parañaque City. One of the highlights of the gathering is the talk given by Dr. Mark Joseph T. Calano, PhD, Vice-President for Research and Innovation of Panpacific University. During his presentation, Dr. Calano talked about Saint Bonaventure’s ‘divine illumination,’ giving emphasis on the concept of God as the first object of the mind.

Capping the day’s celebration is the Holy Eucharist presided by the Provincial Custos, Fra Emmanuel Giva. During his homily, using the life of Saint Bonaventure as an inspiration, he reminded everyone in attendance that “when one is welcomed by the brothers, life becomes less difficult.” He, too, underscored that right intention puts everything and everyone at their proper place. The kissing of the relic of Saint Bonaventure followed after the celebration of the Holy Mass.

The Conventual Franciscan friars’ celebration of the 750th anniversary of the death of Saint Bonaventure was not only a commemoration of the life and works of their fellow friar but it also reminded them, just like Saint Bonaventure, to use their God-given gifts for the service of the Fraternity, the Church, and above all, God.