A Journey of Ongoing Conversion

I often find myself reflecting on what it means to seek truth and guidance in a world overflowing with information and competing voices. The Franciscan tradition, rooted in the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare, calls us to a continual process of conversion—a transformation that is both deeply personal and inherently communal.

Working at Franciscan Action Network, I am surrounded by people committed to peacemaking, care for creation, and the pursuit of justice. Yet, even within this supportive environment, I notice how easy it is to be swept up by the noise of our times. Social media, news cycles, and even well-meaning acquaintances often present conflicting narratives about what is right, just, or necessary. Sometimes, it feels like everyone is an expert, and the pressure to have an immediate answer or a strong opinion can be overwhelming.

The Franciscan response to this isn’t to withdraw or become cynical. Instead, we are invited to slow down, to listen deeply, and to discern with humility. St. Francis himself saw life as a journey of ongoing conversion, famously saying, “Let us begin, for up till now we have done nothing.” This mindset encourages me to approach each day—and each challenge—with openness, recognizing that I am always in the process of becoming, learning, and growing.

One of the most transformative aspects of my service year has been living in community in the Casa. The Franciscan understanding of community is not just about proximity or shared tasks—it’s about mutual support, vulnerability, and a commitment to the common good. One of the great but sometimes difficult parts of living in community is the diversity in perspectives. This has forced me to reflect on what is and isn’t important to me, and has helped me learn about the broader world community.

This community extends beyond our house. At Franciscan Action Network, I see how collective action—rooted in prayer, reflection, and dialogue—can influence public policy and inspire broader social change. The work is never about one person’s voice, but about listening to the cries of the earth and the poor, and responding together with courage and compassion.

In the face of so many competing voices, I’ve learned the importance of cultivating my own circle of trusted mentors, friends, and colleagues who help me discern what is true and good. In the Franciscan tradition, wisdom is not found in isolation but in relationship, in the willingness to be guided and to guide others. Whether it’s a late-night conversation with a housemate, a check-in with a supervisor, or a moment of silent prayer, I find clarity in these moments of connection.

Ultimately, my year as a DCSC member has taught me that being Franciscan and more broadly being human is less about having all the answers and more about embracing the journey of continual conversion. It’s about showing up with humility, seeking truth in community, and allowing myself to be transformed by the people and experiences God places in my path. In a world that often demands certainty and speed, the Franciscan way invites me to slow down, listen, and trust that, together, we can build a more just and compassionate world.

Question for Reflection: How do you seek continuous conversion throughout your life?