Eighty-five in a fortnight.
A Reflection by Fred Schaeffer, OFS.
Last Saturday, my Franciscan sisters and brothers commemorated my birthday in a particularly heartfelt manner. They bestowed upon me thoughtful gifts and treated me to an extended luncheon. Although my birthday is on the 28th, this celebration was held in advance, as our subsequent Franciscan meeting will not occur until after my special day. Among the delightful presents I received was a remarkable book: “The Seraphic Order” by Fr. Marion Habig, OFM. This 987 page volume contains “The Franciscan Book of Saints” published in 1959. It had been out of print for many years and has been reprinted by Mediatrix Press in 2020.
I’ve used quotes from “The Franciscan Book of Saints (1959)” for many years in my writings. While in Religious life, this book was always available in monastery libraries. It is a great reference book, written by a wonderful Franciscan priest, Fr. Marion Alphonse Habig, O.F.M., historian of the Texas Spanish Missions, born at St. Louis, Missouri, on June 28, 1901. He was ordained a priest of the OFM Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart in St. Louis, Missouri, on June 24, 1927. He died on November 22, 1984, in Chicago, Illinois. I am so pleased to have my own copy for extended research and prayer.
The celebratory luncheon took place at C.J. Cannon’s, located at Vero's Airport. During my professional life—now over two decades ago—Cannon’s was a favorite place for lunch or Saturday evening dinners. I became well acquainted with the staff and the proprietors, Pat and Chuck Cannon (mother and son). It is extra special when friends take me to eat there. They have a nice website too: https://cjcannonsrestaurant.com/
When my birthday rolls around in a fortnight, I can celebrate again. And I will do so in prayer and great joy. As Prayer Request Coordinator for our Region, I pray daily for a great many intentions. There are so many people out there who are hurting and lonely. I’ve been living alone most of my life, but I am not lonely. My prayer life is with Jesus, Mary and Saint Francis, and so many holy people. I don’t have spare cash (who has these days?) but I have a big heart. Peace and goodwill to one and all.
On the feast day of St. Maximilian Kolbe,
Fred Schaeffer, OFS
August 14, 2025