Hi my name is Ricky Ferrer. I arrived in Philly both excited and anxious because of the unknown that is before me. St. Francis Inn was founded by three Franciscan brothers who came to Philly, the city of Brotherly Love, to see the need for ministry in the area and how they can respond [...]
The light inside of each of us grows when we nurture it. The flames become bright and we are able to guide not only ourselves but those around us. Over the course of the last four years, I have met several people who carry this light with intention. They tent to their own flame in [...]
Starting my FVM experience during this Covid-19 pandemic has presented many new challenges. Despite living in a world with vaccines, we still take full precautions at the Inn. Protecting our staff and guests is so crucial with the end of the pandemic still so uncertain. Here is a reflection on my experience so far. [...]
The moment my plane touched ground in Philly, my eyes opened up to a whole new reality. It was the first time moving out of my home city of Chicago. I did not know what to expect of this new experience. I came in with the mentality of “Expect nothing, and you will enjoy [...]
Dear FVMs, You're headed to what I can only describe as a singular experience, and not just because Michael Duffy will take you on mystery rides. It's a unique time because the shape of FVM both supports you and challenges you to grow. And, while I hope that your whole life has that shape, [...]
I can still hear the whistle and the rumble of the El on the tracks. The echoing voices of the friars singing 'Salve Regina' in the chapel. I smell the urine and sweat in the yard bathroom and of the dirty dusty sad streets. And the sweet cookies that my mentee, from the Latin American [...]
. “Man, I’m glad to see you,” said a guy outside the gate, who was shaking, panicking, having an episode or on a substance, clearly in the midst of a nightmarish experience. “It’s ok,” I said, after a moment. He wandered over to the side of the gate, still very much panicking. I couldn’t [...]
“Don’t strive for perfection; you will always be disappointed. Strive for the Spirit; She’s always present.” ~ Michael Duffy, OFM My first few days of being the new FVM Program Director were a whirlwind. I began two weeks before the incoming Class of FVMs was to arrive. Two people decided they would not be [...]
“What has your volunteer year taught you about love?” That was the question I asked a panel of former volunteers during my final semester at St. Bonaventure University in Spring 2015. Among the panelists was an alumnus of FVM. Everyone gave thoughtful answers, and I was encouraged that I would not be alone in [...]
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one [...]
