Print and Media Resources

Neumann Institute for Franciscan Studies

Print and Media Resource

In order to easily navigate through the resources, please click on the headings below to view the various lists in their entirety.

CD Sets on the Catholic Tradition

CD Sets on the Franciscan Tradition

CD Sets for Interfaith Dialogue

DVDs and Videos on the Lives of St. Francis and St. Clare and on the Franciscan Tradition

Readings on Catholic Identity

Readings on the Franciscan Tradition

 

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CD Sets on the Catholic Tradition

To deepen your understanding of the identity and mission of Neumann University, you may wish to borrow a CD set and listen while you drive to work, exercise, or walk. Each of the CD sets provides valuable background for faculty and staff who wish to deepen your understanding of the Catholic Tradition. Some sets also include Study Guides. Certain topics are adaptable for use with undergraduate and graduate students and also for directed study courses. All the presenters are prominent scholars who are eminently qualified to speak on their topics. Unless noted, all the programs are available through the NIFS Office.

A Retreat with the Psalms
Fr. Michael Guinan, OFM

A Retreat with Pope Francis
Presented by Fr. Anthony Ciorra

A Retreat with Thomas Merton
by Fr. Donald Goergen, O.P., Ph.D.

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion
by Fr. Joseph J. Godfrey, S.J., Ph.D.

Cardinal Newman: Man of Letters
presented by Professor M. Katherine Tillman, Ph.D.

Catholic Social Teaching
by Thomas Massaro, SJ

Catholic Theology
by Kevin F. Burke, SJ, STL, STD

Celtic Spirituality: Ancient Heritage and Living Legacy
presented by Fr. Richard Woods, O.P., Ph.D.

Gratitude: Seeing as Gift
Presented by Fr. Anthony Ciorra

How to Read and Understand Your Bible
by Fr. Michael D. Guinan, O.F.M., Ph.D.

Mercy: The Heart of Faith, the Reason for Hope
Presented by Fr. Dan Crosby OFM Cap

Moral Theology
by Fr. Kenneth R. Himes, O.F.M., Ph.D.

Rejoicing in the Works of the Lord: The Spirituality of Beauty
by Sr. Mary Beth Ingham C.S.J.

Saints and Animals
by Brother William Short, OFM

 

Science, Religion and Ethics in 21st Century Biomedical Discoveries: Which Way is Forward?
by Kevin Fitzgerald, SJ, Ph.D.

Seven Great Schools of Catholic Spirituality
presented by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, Ph.D.

Sinful Priests, Scandal in the Church and the Hope of St. Francis
by Pat McCloskey, OFM, MA

Spirituality, Health and Healing
by Fr. Richard Woods, O.P.

Spirituality, Psychology and Virtue: A Catholic's Guide to a Flourishing Life
by Fr. John J. Cecero, S.J., Ph.D.

St. Paul: His Life, Faith and Legacy
by Fr. Ron Witherup , S.S., Ph.D.

 

Street Spirituality
by Prof.Robert J. Wicks, Psy.D.

Ten Christian Mystics and What They Tell Us of God
by Fr. Murray Bodo, O.F.M., Ph.D.

Ten Principles of Catholic Social Thought
presented by Fr. William J. Byron, S.J., Ph.D.

The Bible Says What? -  Dealing with Difficult Scripture Passages
Rev. J. Patrick Mullen, S.T.L., Ph.D.

The Earth is the Lord’s: Catholic Theology of Creation, Ecology and the Environment
by Professor Dawn Nothwehr, O.S.F., Ph.D.

The Life and Legacy of John Henry Newman
by Fr. Philip Bochanski, C.O., M.A.

The Lord's Prayer: A Summary of the Entire Gospel
by Fr. Albert Haase, O.F.M., Ph.D.

The Spirituality of Vatican II
by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D.

The Story of the Roman Catholic Church in the United States
by R. Scott Appleby, Ph.D.

Theology and Science
by Matthew C. Ogilvie, Ph.D.

Thomas Merton’s Great Sermons
by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D.

Thomas Merton: A Spiritual Guide for the Twenty-First Century
by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D.

 

Thomas Merton on Contemplation

by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D.

Toward a Blessed Life: Knowing and Living the Beatitudes
by Fr. Michael Crosby O.F.M., Cap., S.T.L., Ph.D.

 

Vatican II
by Fr. John W. O'Malley, S.J., Ph.D.

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CD Sets on the Franciscan Tradition

A Franciscan Retreat with Michael Crosby, OFM Cap

A Franciscan Retreat with Br. Bill Short

Clare of Assisi: Her Life and Legacy
by Sr. Ingrid J. Peterson, O.S.F., Ph.D.

Clare of Assisi: Her Life and Theology
by Sr. Joan Mueller, OSC, Ph.D.

Duns Scotus: The Subtle Doctor
Presenter: Sr. Mary Beth Ingham, C.S.J., Ph.D

Enkindling Love: The Spiritual Journey of St. Francis according to Bonaventure
Br. Edward Coughlin, O.F.M., Ph.D.

Francis of Assisi
by Professors William R. Cook and Ronald B. Herzman

Franciscan Prayer: How Saint Francis Prayed
by Fr. Murray Bodo, O.F.M., Ph.D.

Gerard Manley Hopkins: Magician of Words, Sounds, Images, and Insights
Presented by Fr. Joseph J. Feeney, S.J., Ph.D.

Images of St. Francis: Living the Gospel
By Fr. J.A. Wayne Hellman, OFM Conv.

Saint Bonaventure: The Soul’s Journey into God
Br. William Short, O.F.M., S.T.L., S.T.D.

St. Francis: Gift from God, Man of Prayer
Presented by Fr. Charlie Smiech, OFM

St. Francis of Assisi: A New Way of Being Christian
by William Short, OFM

The Art of Letting Go: Living the Wisdom of Saint Francis
Presented by Fr. Richard Rohr, O.F.M.

The Franciscan Intellectual Tradition
presented by Bill Short

The Saint and the Pope: What the Spirituality of Two Men Named Francis Can Teach Us about Christian Living
Presented by Fr. Daniel Horan OFM

The Treasure of a Poor Man: St. Francis of Assisi and Franciscan Spirituality
by William Short, OFM

What Did St. Francis Teach? Interpreting the Admonitions of Francis of Assisi
by Jay M. Hammond

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CD Sets for Interfaith Dialogue

Christian and Islamic Theology
by Prof. Gabriel Said Reynolds, Ph.D.

Introduction to Islam

by Prof. Gabriel Said Reynolds, Ph.D.

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DVDs and Videos on the Lives of St. Francis and
St. Clare and on the Franciscan Tradition

N.B. For background information on a number of films on the life of St. Francis of Assisi, see the AFCU Journal 2004 and 2005, Christensen, “St. Francis on Film: A Bibliographical Essay” in two parts. In addition to the films listed below, three other films reviewed by Christensen are located in the Neumann Library (Francis of Assisi by Michael Curtiz; Francesco, Jester of God by Roberto Rossellini; and Francesco by Liliana Cavani). Comparison of the depiction of Francis in various films would be an interesting research project.

Before using any film or filmed version of a presentation in the classroom, it is important to review the material. Consider the appropriateness of the film for the specific class. Determine whether to use the entire film or presentation or a clip. Prepare students before viewing with guide questions. Process the film or clip after viewing with a discussion and/or written assignment or creative presentation.

Choosing Compassion: The Paradox of Power
Michael H. Crosby OFM, Cap., presenter

Enkindling Love: The Spiritual Journey of St. Francis According to Bonaventure
Br. Edward Coughlin, O.F.M., Ph.D.
12 lectures on DVD with study guide

Franciscan Moral Vision: Responding to God’s Love
Presenters: Joseph Chinnici OFM, Mary Beth Ingham CSJ, and Thomas Nairn OFM

In the Footprints of Francis and the Sultan: A Model for Peacemaking
Kathleen Warren, OSF and Joyce Hart, producers

ROOM at the INN     
by Gerard Thomas Straub

The Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi

Presenter: Br. William Short

Sun Come Up

a film by Jennifer Redfearn and Tim Metzger

The Early Documents: The Saint, The Founder, The Prophet
Presented by William Short OFM

Celebrating 800 years of the Franciscan Way of Life in Reflection and Poetry
Fr. Murray Bodo, OFM

This film features Father Murray Bodo’s reflections and readings from the poetry collections: Visions and Revisions, Brother Juniper-God’s Holy Fool and Wounded Angels. Fr. Murray’s historic teaching on the great poet and troubadour St. Francis of Assisi is an inspirational and uplifting encounter. This DVD, which can be used in small clips, would be excellent as an inspirational reading to begin a meeting or for a poetry class.
Run time approximately 80 minutes.

Modern Science and God's Plan for Creation, A Franciscan Approach
Kenan Osborne, OFM. on DVD

Kenan Osbourne is a scholar and teacher of international repute. In this DVD he continues to be the bridge builder, helping us see the connections between Science and Religion. This is a wonderful teaching on God's plan for Creation and how it applies to modern day.

Run time 1 hr. 16 min.

Fostering the Common Good
DeSipio Institute for Rural Health and Wellness
Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA
This DVD includes three 60 minute lectures presented at a conference on Franciscans and Healthcare

Serving Generously and Loving Rightly: Insights for a Value-Centered Life from the Franciscan Tradition
by Brother Edward Coughlin, OFM (article available in 2010 AFCU journal)
Brother Ed presents a vision for ethical living from the Franciscan tradition and situates this vision within Francis’s care for the sick and his attitude toward suffering and death. He explores the ethical-moral tradition with specific implications for education in the Franciscan tradition. He applies the Franciscan ethical-moral tradition to two complex issues: stem cell research and adoption of frozen embryos.

The Saint and the Bacillus: The Origins of Franciscan Healthcare
by Brother William Short

In this intriguing lecture, Brother Bill traces the history of Franciscans in healthcare from the time of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi to the present day. Brother Bill presents interesting examples of how Franciscans established ministries to serve the sick throughout the world, especially in areas with few resources and in service to persons who have been marginalized (e.g. the dying, prostitutes, persons with mental illness, lepers, and persons with AIDS).

Healthcare or Wealth Care: The Call to Heal from a Franciscan Perspective
by Sr. Joanne Schatzlein

Sr. Joanne, a Franciscan and a nurse, offers an insightful presentation on the physical and mental suffering of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi.  She contrasts health care in the United States, which provides what she terms “wealth care” for some while neglecting many, with a Franciscan approach which might serve all, regardless of status, with respect, compassion, and dignity.

The information on these tapes would be excellent for anyone wishing a deeper knowledge of the connection of Franciscans, healthcare, and suffering. The quality of the tapes would not be appropriate for classroom viewing.

The Franciscan Intellectual Tradition for Formators (video)
Presented by Brother William J. Short OFM
Ruah Media.org, 2004, (8 sessions vary in length from 20-69 min. each)

Contents:
Session 1: “Why Is It Important to retrieve the Franciscan Intellectual Tradition?” (46min)
Session 2: “What is FIT?” (Overview of major themes)  (31 min)
Session 3: Review of FIT and Incarnation (49 min)
Session 4: Creation (33 min)
Session 5: Salvation (20 min)
Session 6: Freedom (35 min)
Session 7: Understanding the Tradition – Franciscan Intellectual Tradition Method (69 min)
Session 8: Moving from the world of the Tradition into the world of the present (64 min)

Intended as a resource for those who are responsible for forming persons in the Franciscan tradition, this is an excellent resource for your own understanding of the Franciscan tradition. Pieces of it are also appropriate for upper level theology classes.

St. John Neumann (video)
St. Paul Video Cassettes, 1986, 28 min.
This video gives a glimpse into the life of this frontier priest who became the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia and a great American saint. Through unique interviews, we learn about John Neumann’s character and accomplishments from those who knew him best.
This would be appropriate to show to a class.

John Michael Talbot: Quiet Reflections (video)
Sparrow Home Video, 1989, 55min.
Visual Meditations with selected music and inspirational readings. Songs written by John Michael Talbot are taken from the audio recording of the same name. Here they are accompanied by visual meditations. Some of the songs included are: Sunrise, The Pleiades and Orion, Hymn to the Praises of God, Holy is His Name, The Lilies of the Field, May I Never Boast, St. Theresa’s Prayer . . .
Reflections vary in length from 3 – 10 minutes. They could be used as an opening prayer or a reflection period for students and/or faculty sessions.

Theological Foundations for Our Franciscan Ministry (video)
Michael Blastic OFM Conv. is speaking at St. Bonaventure university in the spring of 2001
(approx. 20-25 min)
In this animated lecture Michael offers three fundamental intuitions into St. Francis spirituality that he gleans from the story of Francis’ conversion of the 3 robbers (The Little Flowers of St. Francis).
Michael develops these three intuitions:

• Poverty – our acceptance of the human condition

• Incarnation – God’s embrace of the human condition

• Eucharist – the center of Mission – simple basic response to human need

Students and faculty alike could benefit from Michael Blastic’s summary of Francis’ spirituality. The story of the conversion of the robbers gives a concrete example of these values in action and challenges the listener to apply them to their own interactions with others.

Brother Sun, Sister Moon (Video and DVD available)
Franco Zeffirelli, 1973, 2 hours

This film focuses on the early years of Francis of Assisi, who sought communion with the natural world by renouncing family riches to live a life of poverty. It depicts Francis’ spontaneity and goodness; however, it takes liberties in describing certain dimensions of Francis’ life, such as his relationship with Clare. Zeffirelli’s use of photography is very effective. Clips from the film, also available on You Tube, can be used effectively to introduce discussions on many themes such as the disparities between rich and poor, Francis’ love of creation, and the human struggle to know God. The film could be used by students who know the story of Francis and can separate fact from fiction.
For a review of this film, see the AFCU Journal, 2005, Christensen, pages 46-51.

The Reluctant Saint (DVD and Video formats available)
Donald Spoto, 2004, 60 minutes

This DVD is a depiction of the life of Francis that is very much based on historical material. The interplay between the world of Francis and society today is evident. The film is narrated and supplemented by enactments from Francis’ life. It is filmed on location in Assisi. It would be good for theology classes and for anyone who wanted to understand Francis and his values in society today. Peter Christensen offers a brief critique of this film in the 2004 AFCU Journal, page 72.

Saint Francis: Troubadour of God’s Peace (DVD)
Saint Luke Productions, 1983, 55 minutes

This is the film version of a one-person production in which Leonardo Defilippis brings to life Saint Francis. The play was presented live at Neumann in October 2005. It is appropriate for undergraduate and graduate classes. A Resource Guide is available from the NIFS Office.
Available in Neumann University library

Francis and Clare of Assisi (DVD)
Oriente Occidente Productions, Vision Video, 1997, 30 minutes

This film recounts the story of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, using photography of Assisi and Franciscan artwork. This film could be used with upper level undergraduates and graduate students with a basic understanding of the lives of Francis and Clare of Assisi.

The Believers: St. Francis and the Franciscans (Video)
Sleeping Giant Productions, 2000, 51 minutes

Narrated by Franciscan Friars and filmed with background of Assisi, artwork from the Basilica of St. Francis and other more contemporary art and beautiful nature photography, this film is a faithful historical account of the life of Francis. Although not presented in depth, there is also an introduction to the life of Clare. The commentary explores the Franciscan tradition today. Young Friars share their attraction to St. Francis and describe the ministries in which they engage. Appropriate for undergraduates and graduate students, this film presents a fine overview of the life of Francis and the impact of the Franciscan movement. It is possible to show clips and then discuss various incidents in the life of Francis and their contemporary meaning; e.g. Francis’s encounter with the leper, the Wolf of Gubbio, the encounter with the Muslim sultan, the story of Greccio, the writing of the Canticle of the Creatures.
Available in Neumann University library

Clare of Assisi (Video)
Oblate Media and Communication Corporation, 1989, 65 minutes

This is a recorded version of a one-person performance of the life of Clare of Assisi. It recounts her story from her desire to follow Francis until her death. It is based on the historical documentation of Clare’s life and her letters and writings. This could be helpful for anyone seeking to know or understand Clare more fully.

St. Clare of Assisi (Video)
Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2000, 24 minutes

This narrated life of Clare includes excellent scenes and artistic images from Assisi. The commentary presents Clare as leader, with Francis, of the Franciscan movement, and highlights Clare’s unique role as the first woman in the history of the Church to write a Rule for women. Although Clare is the focus of the film, there is also a valuable commentary on the history of religious life and the distinctiveness of the Franciscan movement. The film could be used with upper level undergraduates and graduate students with a basic knowledge of Clare.
Available in Neumann University library

St. Clare of Assisi (Video)
Oriente Occidente Productions, 1993, 40 minutes
This documentary was filmed in Assisi to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the birth of St. Clare in 1193. In addition to the focus on Clare, there is a good summary of the life of St. Francis. The film includes comments from a contemporary Poor Clare Sister. The film could be used with graduate students with a basic knowledge of Clare.
Available in Neumann University library

Whatever Happened to Clare?
by Joanne Schatzlein, OSF
Two-part program; each part is between 45 and 55 minutes

In this DVD Sr. Joanne explores the importance of Clare of Assisi to the Franciscan charism, the Franciscan notion of leadership, and an understanding of ministry in the Franciscan tradition. Consisting of two presentations, this program was part of the 2005 Sponsorship Conference of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. The audience consisted of employees of Viterbo University in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and also employees of three regional health centers sponsored by the Sisters.

Assisi Pilgrimage: Walking in Faith with Francis and Clare (DVD)
St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2006 – 120 minutes, 2008 – 60 minutes

There are two versions of this DVD. Both versions include a commentary on the lives of Francis and Clare of Assisi and an introduction to the places where they lived and work. Throughout the film scholars and pilgrims comment on the spirituality and the applications of the Franciscan tradition. Clips from either version are appropriate for use with students with a basic knowledge of the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare. The DVD is also an excellent introduction to the concept of pilgrimage for anyone planning to visit Assisi or for classes studying the meaning of pilgrimage.

The World of Saint Francis: Past, Present and Future (DVD)

This DVD contains three distinct programs. Note that the NIFS office also has a video version of Franciscan Holy Ground (see below):

 

 

Franciscan Holy Ground: Where Francis and Clare Found God (Video)
Narration and music by John Michael Talbot, 1997, 20 minutes

This reflective presentation is a picture tour of sacred places in Assisi and beyond that were meaningful to Francis and Clare. It includes a guide with reflection questions. This could be used by those making a pilgrimage or visit to Assisi and to introduce students to the places made sacred by Francis and Clare.

The Spirit of Assisi (DVD)
Oriente Occidente Productions, Vision Video, 25 minutes

This film uses the town of Assisi as narrators describe the impact of Assisi as a “city of peace. Testimonies are taken from writings of Pope John Paul II, Dante Alighieri, Hermann Hesse, Simone Weil, J.W. Goethe, St. Francis, and a Poor Clare Sister.

Assisi the Spiritual City (Video)
English edition, undated, 50 minutes

This video talks about the churches of Assisi, beginning with the basilica of St. Francis, from the perspectives of history and art and architecture. It could be helpful for those making a pilgrimage to view beforehand or afterwards. It could also be used in art classes that deal with the high middle ages.

The Franciscan Way (Video)
Franciscan Federation, January 2004, 10 minutes

This video, narrated by Ramona Miller, OSF and Patrick Quinn, TOR, speaks of the life, vision, and values of Francis of Assisi and the way Franciscans and their co-workers live them today. It would be good for faculty, adjunct faculty, or new employees as a quick way to learn about the Franciscan tradition. The video could also be used as a part of a department meeting. There are questions for discussion.

Giving an Account of the Hope that is Within
by William Short, OFM

This presentation to mission effectiveness leaders in various institutions (colleges, high schools, health care, etc.) offers a short overview of the theological foundation of the Franciscan tradition. Topics include: God, Christ, the human person, creation, Church, and authority and service. The film may be used in 10 minute segments.

Franciscan Theology and Philosophy: Its Contemporary Value
by Kenan Osborne, OFM

This DVD presents a series of lectures given at Marian College (a member of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities) in Indianapolis, IN, in 2007. Father Kenan’s style is simple, engaging, and humorous as he explains the history of the Franciscan intellectual tradition, the meaning of Trinity, the Franciscan perspective on creation, and the philosophical and theological vision of St. Bonaventure and John Duns Scotus. There are also three short segments which summarize the Franciscan perspective on creation, the dignity of the human person, and freedom. An outstanding complement to Father Osborne’s article which appeared in the January 2008 issue of the AFCU journal, the DVD offers a tool for educating oneself and is also appropriate for classroom use.

From Assisi to LaCrosse
by William Short OFM
One hour, 41 minutes

This presentation explores the question “What makes an organization Franciscan?” and suggests ways to translate the meaning of the Franciscan heritage into the world of the 21st century. The presentation was given to personnel from Viterbo University and three major regional health systems at the Annual Sponsorship Conference of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in 2006.

This DVD consists of two sessions. The first (60 minutes) is a clear and easy to understand session on what makes an organization Franciscan. In the second part Short, in a simple, enjoyable and concise manner, explores how values from Francis’ time can be translated today. This could be used as an orientation for new faculty to the Franciscan tradition and Neumann University or for selected classes that deal with translating events from past cultures to the present.

Values and the “Commune”
by William Short OFM

In this DVD the presenter explores several themes related to the evaluation of a Franciscan culture within an organization: How are relationships served? How are Franciscan values integrated into day-to-day operations? How can ethical decisions harmonize justice and charity? How can we measure success and deal with failure? Where is true joy found? Segments of this film could be used for faculty and staff development and for upper level undergraduate and graduate students who have a basic knowledge of the Franciscan tradition.

Christ, Word of God and Exemplar of Humanity: The Roots of the Franciscan Tradition and Implications for Today
by Zachary Hayes OFM

This DVD explores key themes of the Franciscan tradition and the implications for today’s world including: focus on the humanity of God; the mystery of God as generous creative love; and the understanding of relationships within creation. Segments of the presentation could be used with upper level undergraduate and graduate students who have a basic knowledge of the Franciscan tradition. This DVD could also be used with a class related to Christology.

Shaping Our Province and Ministries: A Franciscan Response to Globalization(DVD)
June 9-12, 2004, Siena College; sponsored by the Holy Name Province of the Order of Friars Minor, 1 hour and 20 minutes

This DVD is divided into two parts. In Part 1 Dr. Maryann Cusimano Love discusses the structure and operation of globalization today and how it impacts positively and negatively those who are poor and marginalized. The presentation is clear and succinct and lasts about one hour. It is followed by responders Kevin Mullen, OFM (President of Siena College) and Ms. Anne Tunney. Part 1 might be helpful in a history, political science or philosophy class.

Sr. Mary Beth Ingham in Part 2 reflects upon globalization from a Franciscan perspective and how our ministries might address the current reality of globalization in a counter-cultural way. The timing is the same as Part 1 with Ed Coughlin, OFM and Ms. Marie Dennis responding.

To Life: Today’s Formative Challenges in Light of Selected Insights from the Thought of John Duns Scotus (set of 10 DVDs in two jackets)
Franciscan Formators Conference, Franciscan Renewal Center, Scottsdale, AZ
April 2005. Presented by Ed Coughlin, OFM, Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ,
Kathryn King, FSP, Seamus Mullholland, OFM

This series contains fourteen different sessions on topics that deal with the insights of John Duns Scotus in regard to Franciscan theology, spirituality, ethics, philosophy, and self-development. Each session varies in length from 30 minutes to 105 minutes. Presentations are clear and concise. Topics could be used in a variety of settings. Additionally there is a fifteenth DVD that contains further resources, such as handouts and prayer, for all the topics.

Canticle of Conversion: Singing the Cosmic Symphony(Video)
Bill Short, OFM, January 12, 2002, Redwood City, CA, 48 minutes

Brother Bill Short describes this as a non-academic reflective presentation. He presents in a teaching style unique insights into the life and works of Francis and their connection with the history of the world that followed. This would be good for faculty/staff who want a deeper insight into the Franciscan tradition, particularly those who are interested in the environment and care for the earth. It has one of the best treatments of Francis and the birds!

Mary as Full Image of Humanity: the Franciscan Perspective of John Duns Scotus (Video)
Mary Beth Ingham, 2005 – 1 hour

This video consists of two parts; each is about 30 minutes in length. In Part 1 Ingham presents an integration of theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology and eschatology from the perspective of the Franciscan tradition, relying particularly on Scotus.  Part 2 deals the Immaculate Conception from the viewpoint of Scotus and its implications for theology today. Clips from Part 1 might be used to present some basic insights into the Franciscan theological tradition in undergraduate or graduate classes. Part 2 could be good for a course on Mariology or for any professor who wished to explore this doctrine.

Woman of Peace: Clare of Assisi (CD Rom)
Psalmos Meida, 2003

This interactive CD Rom includes a virtual tour of the Monastery of San Damiano in Assisi where St. Clare of Assisi lived and died. In addition to the tour, there is commentary on the life of Clare as a woman of Peace. For additional information about the use of this CD-Rom, contact the NIFS Office.

The Virtual Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (CD-Rom)
Saint Louis University, Digital Theology, 2006

This virtual tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi allows the viewer to actually experience the art in the basilica. The CD-Rom also allows faculty to download specific works of art with commentary for classroom use. For a review of this program. please see the AFCU Journal, 2008, pages 168-169. Please contact the NIFS Office for information on how to use this program.

 

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Readings on Catholic Identity

Ex Corde Ecclesiae by Pope John Paul II

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) Power Point on the identity and mission of Catholic Colleges and Universities
Catholic College Week Document

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
This website includes background information on a number
of issues including but not limited to Catholic doctrine, Catholic Social Teaching, domestic and international affairs, contemporary films, life and family concerns, and social justice.

There are also several excellent books on Catholic identity in the Neumann University Library. Contact the NIFS office for suggestions.

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Readings on the Franciscan Tradition

There are a number of excellent biographies of Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi, appropriate for personal enrichment and inspiration and for use with undergraduate and graduate students. Consult the Neumann Library on-line catalog or contact the NIFS Office for specific suggestions. There are also many books on the Franciscan movement, the tradition, and major Franciscan scholars. In addition, The AFCU Journal: A Franciscan Perspective on Higher Education, the journal of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universitiescontains excellent articles. Copies of the journal may be found at http://www.franciscancollegesuniversities.org/

The following articles will be especially helpful:

A Franciscan Language for the 21st Century, William J. Short, OFM (January 2004)

The “DNA”of Franciscan Institutions, Margaret Carney, OSF (January 2005)

In Search of an Identity: Franciscan Schools in a Changing World, Zachary Hayes, OFM (January 2005)

Responding from the Tradition: Franciscan Universities in the Third Millennium, Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ (January 2006)

The Franciscan Difference: What Makes a Catholic College/University Franciscan? Michael W. Blastic, OFM (January 2006)

The Franciscan Intellectual Tradition: What Is It? Why Is It Important? Kenan B. Osborne, OFM (January 2007)

One University’s Attempt to Name the Franciscan Charism in Higher Education, Sr. Mary Evelyn Govert, OSF (January 2007)

The Franciscan Spirit in Catholic Higher Education, J. A. Wayne Hellmann, OFM Conv. (January 2009)

The following websites also contain excellent resources:

Commission on the Franciscan Intellectual Tradition
This website includes selected bibliographies on Franciscan topics, titles of books published by the Commission, and an on-line Forum where you may post questions and receive assistance and suggestions for teaching a number of topics related to the Franciscan tradition.
http://www.franciscantradition.org/

Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities
All issues of the AFCU Journal are archived on this website. You are welcome to download articles for personal and classroom use. For permission to duplicate articles and/or share electronically with students, please e-mail Sr. Pat Hutchison at hutchisp@neumann.edu. Permission is granted without charge, but it is important to have a record of articles used.
http://www.franciscancollegesuniversities.org/

Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia
In addition to information about the congregation and the Franciscan tradition, this site contains information on a number of justice issues, and prayers and prayer services adaptable for use at meetings or in the classroom.
http://www.osfphila.org/

Franciscans International
Franciscans International is a non-governmental organization at the United Nations, working to impact policies related to peace, justice, care of creation, and human rights. The website contains excellent resources related to all these topics. It is a valuable resource for faculty, staff and also for students doing research.
http://www.franciscansinternational.org/

Franciscan Action Network
Located in Washington, DC, the Franciscan Action Network focuses on advocacy on behalf of domestic issues related to peacemaking, care for creation, poverty and human rights. Staff members are happy to come to Neumann to present to classes. Contact the NIFS Office to arrange a speaker.
http://www.franciscanaction.org/

Additional Resources