Casa Franciscana Outreach

Where Growth Begins

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:33:47 GMT

A Project That Took Root – Home Garden Project

With water, families can grow food and sustain their daily lives.

Home Garden Project

The Home Garden Project continues to grow in the communities

surrounding Guaymas, where families are building something steady

with what they have.

What began as a simple effort—to help families grow their own food—

has taken root in meaningful ways.

With seeds, young fruit trees, tools, fencing, and water tanks,

families are creating gardens that support daily life.

These are not large operations.

The plots of land for growing are small, intentional spaces where

food is grown, shared, and sustained over time.

BELOW :

A Family at the Center

In Etchoropo, Reina, Diego, and their children live and work in a

place where daily life is shaped by what is available and what can be

sustained.

Their home is where daily life unfolds—family and neighbors gather,

meals are prepared, and the rhythm of the day continues.

Everything this family has is used carefully and with purpose—and

even with little, they continue to share with others.

Outside, their kitchen is open-air.

Meals are prepared here using what the land provides, and what

water makes possible.

Father Martín blesses family members and their food before they

break bread.

ABOVE LEFT

Reina and Diego's newly planted rows are beginning to take hold,

marking the start of what this garden can become.

What Supports Daily Life

The land is dry, and water is limited. Water does not reach this area

through normal infrastructure.

Instead, a truck comes through—often once a week—and what is

delivered has to last.

BELOW: Left to Right

Two water tanks sit beside Reina and Diego's home: one for their

home

A second tank will be placed on this platform to support the garden.

Using Water More Efficiently

An effort was made to introduce a small irrigation system to use

water

more efficiently across the garden rows.

The approach is simple and effective—delivering only what each

plant

needs without waste—and is already working in other communities.

The materials failed after the first use. With more durable materials,

This approach could help families use water more effectively and

support consistent growth.

What Your Support Makes Possible

Each family that begins a garden receives what is needed to start—

seeds, basic tools, fencing, and a water tank. That tank becomes

essential.

Without a water tank, consistent growth is difficult to maintain, and

food production becomes uncertain.

Help a Family Begin

A gift of $850 provides a water tank—giving a family the ability to

 store water, grow food, and sustain daily life.

P.O. Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

The Story Does Not End Here, Daily Resurrection in Our Midst

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:16:44 GMT

A Living Letter Across Borders

The Story Does Not End Here,

Daily Resurrection In Our Midst

My Dear Sisters and Brothers of Casa Franciscana Outreach,

Easter comes as a gentle light, reminding us that death is not the end of the story.

The Resurrection is God’s promise that His story continually moves with new life—every day, every moment—here and now among us. We see it in small acts of kindness, in families who find strength to begin again, and in the quiet courage of those who refuse to give up hope.

Here at the Mission, the Resurrection takes flesh in daily life. It is present in a warm meal shared with someone who is hungry, in medicine placed into the hands of a diabetic who has been worrying through the night, in a child who laughs again because he feels seen and loved.

The Franciscan tradition invites us to notice this new life in simple things: a smile, a greeting of peace, the beauty of creation, the gift of one another. Saint Francis of Assisi teaches us that we meet the Risen Christ most clearly when we draw near to those who suffer, when we walk humbly, and when we rebuild, what is broken brick by brick, heart by heart.

Food Distribution

Local and Outreach

From Ashes To Partnership

“Stories like the Jimenez family are not isolated — they are woven into the daily work of the Mission.”

The Mission Steps In

The family never forgot. Their relationship with the Mission shifted from emergency assistance to an enduring partnership. What began as a crisis response grew into shared work rooted in gratitude and mutual respect.

Full Circle

Today, the same family that once arrived at the Mission with nothing now opens their yard and street as gathering places.

Faith Becomes Action

The Resurrection we celebrate at Easter does not remain in the past. It continues wherever compassion overcomes hardship, wherever love rebuilds what was broken, and wherever dignity is restored.

Community Moments

These are not programs on paper. They are relationships built over time — sustained by faith, trust, and the generosity of people who choose to walk alongside the Mission.

Ministries of Connection

A Living Letter Across Borders

“Your Easter gift helps carry our living letter across borders — providing food, medical care, and dignity to families in Guaymas.”

The Mission’s Christmas Story: Seeing God Among His People

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 21:23:19 GMT

The Birth of Jesus Christ Born Again in Guaymas, Mexico

“Every face tells a story of grace — of families who find hope in the simplest gifts.”

IN THIS NEWSLETTER

A Year in Review

As you turn these pages, let the faces of the people speak to you. Each face holds a piece of the Mission’s journey - the courage to keep going, the faith to believe in tomorrow, and the love that continues to grow quietly in the heart of Guaymas.

From its humble beginnings, the Casa Franciscana Mission has grown into a lifeline for hundreds of families, elders, and the homeless across Guaymas. What started as a small act of service now reaches into every corner of the community.

As its reach expands, the Mission continues the same story of Christmas—from food boxes to home gardens and shoes for children, medicine and computer programs for education —remains a simple, living echo of the Nativity—filled with hope and light.

What began—sharing food, stories, and kindness from his humble dwelling- word spread, and soon more children came. What started as a single act of compassion slowly grew into a community center where children could eat, play, and feel safe. Over the years, Jerry’s kindness drew others in. Together, they built more than a club—they built a family.

When Jerry passed away, the news spread quietly through the neighborhoods of Guaymas. For days, people stopped by the old center—lighting candles, leaving flowers, and remembering the man who had fed not only their hunger, but their hope.

His legacy endures in the hearts of the children he served—now grown, many with families of their own, still remembering the man who showed them they mattered.

Club Jerry remains a living memory of one traveler who turned a stopover into a lifetime of service—and whose heart continues to feed the soul of Guaymas.

Transitus Celebration of St. Francis of Assisi

On October 3rd and 4th, the Mission commemorates the Transitus of St. Francis.

At dusk, candles are lit — a quiet beginning to the Transitus with prayer and reflection.

The next day, the procession begins in the town square, winding through the streets toward the Mission, ending with a celebration of Mass.

Here’s What Your CompassionMade Possible in 2025

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Click it or hit www.casafraniscanaoutreach.org

For more specific information on designating CFO for living gifts, wills, or trusts, and learn about our matching gifts programs, email:

donorinfo@theoutreach.org

The Transitus of St. Francis

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:19:35 GMT

Seeds of Health & Hope - Community Garden Letter

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 20:54:54 GMT

Growing Food - Growing Tradition - Growing A Community

Señora Mercedes was one of the first of the twelve recipients to receive the tools to start their home gardens.

The Home Garden Project was born during mission visits to the outskirts of Guaymas, where the daily struggles of local families revealed a clear and pressing need. Inspired by these encounters and guided by the spirit of Saint Francis—who urged the Friars to care for both people and the earth—the vision took root: to empower families to nourish themselves by cultivating their food. This simple yet powerful initiative promotes self-sufficiency, healthier living, and a deeper, more sacred connection to the natural world.

Twelve families received the tools to start their home gardens. With seeds, young fruit trees, garden tools, fencing, and water tanks, they now grow the food that feeds their children and heals their communities. These are not just gardens—they symbolize resilience, dignity, and faith in the future.

Señora Mercedes

During our March 2025 pilgrimage, we came across a house situated along a dusty road, filled with flowers and surrounded by a vegetable garden. We met Señora Mercedes on a warm afternoon, just as the sun was high in the sky, casting its light above the trees. She stood in front of a small, yet lively garden tucked behind her modest home — tomatoes climbing old wooden stakes, cilantro resembling white burst of fireworks, and beets glowing red beneath the soil.

What struck us most wasn’t just the abundance of food — it was the abundance of spirit. Señora Mercedes didn’t recover — she transformed.

What began as survival has become generosity. What was once dependence is now dignity.

 Help Us Grow Green Spaces and Hope

Will you help us grow this life-changing project? Your contribution can equip a family with the essential tools they need to begin, starting with water tanks.

A donation of $850 can launch a new chapter of self-sufficiency for one family. You can also scan the QR code to choose a donation or a monthly recurring amount that fits your budget.

“Together we can plant seeds of change – one Home Garden at a time in Guaymas, Mexico.”

— Fr. Martín Ibarra, OFM

Donations can be made at www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org or via our QR code.

Bringing Hope To Children's Futures Through Shoes for School

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:36:28 GMT

Isabella, the eldest fo threee sisters, shares her story about how long it takes to get to school, walking several miles to secure a better future.

Your participation can foster significant change and pave the way for brighter opportunities. Various forms of assistance, such as donations or raising awareness, are valuable—every contribution matters.

In Mexico, having shoes is essential for school attendance. Your help can truly make an impact. United, we can unlock the potential of many children and create a more just and promising future for everyone.

Casa Franciscana Outreach - An Easter Message from Father Martín

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:36:39 GMT

EASTER 2025 | VOLUME 55

My Dear Sisters and Brothers,

As we approach this beautiful season of Easter, we are invited to reflect on the remarkable life and journey of Jesus Christ. His incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension carry a profound meaning that offers forgiveness for our past and reassures us of God’s acceptance of Jesus's immense sacrifice. This lays a hopeful foundation for our future. At the heart of Easter, we find an invitation to immerse ourselves in God’s boundless love, expressed through Jesus's presence among us.

Our Franciscan community shares a profound understanding of spirituality grounded in God's immense love. We acknowledge the reality of sin and the pain it can cause; however, we strive not to let these shadows overshadow the radiant light of divine love. By reflecting on this love, we realize that every moment of Easter, including the poignant image of Jesus on the cross, reveals the profound significance of His love for each of us.

Jesus' suffering on the cross was not merely a moment of despair but a powerful testament to the strength of love—the only force capable of pulling us back from our struggles. This love inspires us to act and holds profound significance in our lives.

As violence enveloped Him, a path to reconciliation emerged in that pivotal moment. Jesus demonstrated an incredible capacity for compassion, withholding condemnation even in the face of suffering. Rather than retaliate or judge, He offered a heartfelt plea for forgiveness for those who harmed Him, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing."

We wish you all joy this Easter and send love to our brothers and sisters from the Casa Franciscana Mission, Guaymas A.C. Team.

Guaymas Annual Appeal 2025

In January 2025, we held our annual Guaymas Appeal, during which Fr. Martin and the dedicated mission staff reached out for our support. They shared heartfelt stories about the essential programs that provide underprivileged children with nourishment, clothing, education, and medical care. Together, we can help ensure these precious children receive the care and support they deserve.

Fr. Martin passionately led all four Masses, inspiring the congregation with uplifting stories about how Casa Franciscana brings hope and joy to the lives of people in Guaymas. After Mass, many parishioners open their hearts and wallets and adopt photos of children whose generosity transforms their lives. It was a genuinely heartwarming and empowering event!

Email: Info@TheOutreach.org. or visit us at CasaFranciscana.org for information about the Annual Appeal.

Friar’s Corner

A Visit from the Pilgrims to Grandmother Doña Inez

This is a story about an 85-year-old grandmother who cares for her daughters’ three children: twin boys who are five years old and an eighteen-year-old granddaughter.

The Casa Franciscana Mission reaches out to community members who cannot access help. Pilgrims faced challenges navigating unpaved, rocky, and steep roads that separated individuals from essential assistance. Despite these obstacles, the mission team is grateful for the opportunity to provide vital resources, like food and medical care, thanks to the generous support of people in the United States.

Upcoming Service Pilgrimage - October 2025

Join us for the Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi at our upcoming pilgrimage from October 2 to 5, 2025. This journey will enrich your spiritual growth, renew and deepen your relationship with God, and allow you to witness Christ at work as you travel to the Franciscan Mission in Guaymas, Mexico.

For more information, please email the Pilgrimage Team at:

PilgrimageTeam@casafranciscana.org

Casa Franciscana Outreach Tree of Life

In 2024, our Board created "The Tree of Life," a picture book featuring inspiring stories from the Casa Franciscana Mission in Guaymas, Mexico

On behalf of the CFO Board of Directors, we invite you to become a “Spiritual Sponsor” by donating $240 annually ($20.00 monthly).

A recurring monthly donation allows us to secure a more stable and reliable source of income. As an annual donor of $240, you will receive a copy of the Tree of Life book as a token of our gratitude.

Ways to Donate

CasaFranciscanaOutreach.org or scan the QR code to donate securely with a one-time gift or a recurring monthly donation. For more detailed information, please email us at Info@TheOutreach.org . Contact Casa Franciscana Outreach (CFO) for details on designating gifts in wills or trusts. For information on matching gifts and planned giving opportunities, email: DonorInfo@TheOutreach.org . Casa Franciscana Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Organized under Arizona and United States laws. All contributions are tax- deductible to the full extent allowed by those laws. EIN/tax ID number: 86-0609895.

Warm Greetings From Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 20:07:04 GMT

WARM GREETINGS FROM FR. MARTIN IBARRA, OFM

Over 800 years ago, St. Francis of Assisi created the first Nativity scene to convey the true meaning of Christmas. The focus on gifts can overshadow the holiday’s authentic spirit. St. Francis’s creation reminds us that Christmas is about more than exchanging presents; it celebrates the birth of a sacred child.

Christmas is a time of joy, hope, and love. It embodies worldwide peace and inspires gracious giving. For those with abundance, sharing gifts reflects the joy from their hearts during this holy season.

We should extend love to those in need, reminding them they are not forgotten. Sometimes, this acknowledgment may be the most profound gift to brighten their days.

Many of the people we serve at the Mission face daily challenges that test their strength. Like our Savior, many in Guaymas were born in humble dwellings with dirt floors, no running water, and limited resources. With God’s love and grace, we see their nurturing affection for their families, akin to that in the manger where Mary and Joseph welcomed baby Jesus.

The people of Guaymas live reflecting our Lord’s humble beginnings. The love parents have for their children is a testament to family bonds. Encountering them, you witness their love, visible in their eyes and warm smiles.

We here from the Mission in Guaymas, Mexico, wish to find you in high spirits as we approach the most magical time of the year. As we gather with loved ones and reflect on the past year, we are reminded of the true essence of Christmas: the gift of our Lord Jesus Christ.

We are excited to share heartwarming stories and to spread Christmas cheer.

In a town called Nazareth, a young woman named Mary was engaged to be married to a carpenter called Joseph. One day, God sent the Angel Gabriel down from heaven to visit Mary and tell her she would have a baby boy. He would be called Jesus.

The First Nativity Scene

St. Francis created the first Nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223. His inspiration for this depiction of Jesus’ birth stems from his experiences in the Holy Land between 1219 and 1220. It is said that St. Francis wanted to recreate this scene after seeing the holy sites of Jesus Christ’s birthplace and experiencing the area where Christ lived, died, and was resurrected.

In November 1223, three years before his death, St. Francis was in Rome, awaiting the pope’s approval of his friars’ final rule. Ahead of his return, two weeks before Christmas, Francis asked his friend, the Lord of Greccio, Giovanni Velita, to prepare a cave with live animals and a hay-filled manger. His request was based on his audience with the pope, who had permitted Francis to stage the scene of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem.

Brother Thomas of Celano, St. Francis’s first biographer, wrote, “Francis desired to represent the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem in a way that would allow us to physically see what he suffered for lack of the necessities of a newborn babe and how he lay in the manger between the ox and the ass.”

This first nativity scene was staged in a rocky cave outside Greccio in December 1223. During Christmas Mass, the town flocked to see this simple live scene.

The Miracle

According to accounts of the moment: “Fires lit the dark scene while crowds arrived at the spot carrying candles and torches. St. Francis proclaimed the Gospel and preached his sermon. An eyewitness saw a miracle happen at that Mass on this first Nativity scene. In an empty manger, a newborn infant appeared.”

St. Francis then took this infant into his arms, embracing him to his chest.

Following this period, miraculous healings occurred when pieces of hay were placed on sick animals and people, where the Child Jesus had appeared.

After the first nativity scene, the practice became popular and spread widely; within a century, virtually every church in Italy had adopted it. What started so long ago is a worldwide tradition that has spread to churches, homes, and yards.

Celebrating Las Posadas

A Heartwarming Tradition for Children in Guaymas, Mexico

We celebrate Las Posadas yearly in December, providing holiday gifts to underprivileged children often overlooked in our communities. This time reminds us of these children’s joy, paralleling the humble Christmas story and emphasizing the importance of connecting with the marginalized to experience God’s presence in the “little ones.” Our outreach offers transformative experiences that deepen our understanding of God’s love and change our perspectives.

People here struggle to hold onto what they have. For them, Christmas is everything, and Las Posadas captures this spirit. During the festivities, we reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey, reflecting the essence of Christmas.

We encourage our team to engage in the mission. One group inside embraces the theme of Mary and Joseph, while the outdoor group reflects on the first Christmas moment

This celebration mirrors the joy of Mary and Joseph, focusing on the little ones—like shepherds and animals—who often share the greatest joy. Celebrating Las Posadas, a beloved tradition, brings joy and excitement to our children! At the Mission, we invite Guaymas children to participate in a journey reenacting Mary and Joseph’s travels, which creates lasting memories.

New Website: CasaFranciscanaOutreach.org

Casa Franciscana Outreach is excited to announce the unveiling of a new website customized for you. The new streamlined experience captures the mission of our organization with better navigation and more information on the people, programs, and community we support in Guaymas. With the new, faster platform, you can quickly navigate to the latest news on our ministries, service pilgrimages, and Franciscan Tree of Life. Immerse yourself in the photos and images that bring the compelling stories of Guaymas to life.

Finally, we make it easy for you to manage your giving through prominent, intuitive navigation Points that allow you to seamlessly control your account and donations.

2024 Milestones

From January to October 2024, with your help, our mission was able to:

Provide daily meals, hot meals to elders, widows, single moms, and the homeless, 250 to 300 daily. For children, the average is 33 to 40 daily.

Total Meals Provided: 61,666

Deliver food boxes to the disabled, elderly, and families.

Total Food Boxes Delivered: 11,790

Facilitate two medical missions:

Medical General, Dentist, Papanicolaou’s Tests, Pediatrics, Immunizations, Medical Prescriptions, Laboratory, and Other Services

Total Health Services Provided: 10,521

The Diabetic Program initiates enrollees through a recognized diabetic education program and offers 500 mentoring times.

Total Diabetic Enrollees: 24

Educational support provides educational support sessions at five sites: tutoring, counseling, computers, and monitoring.

Total Educational Support: 19,278

Awarded scholarships to Bells Artes Music Academy, founded by Brother Ivo.

Total Music Scholarships: 15

Distribute children’s shoes.

Total Shoes Distributed: 2554

Furnish backpacks with school supplies and 18 different communities.

Total Backpacks/Supplies: 2500

Facilitate weekly programs that provide hygiene visits with showers, haircuts, and clean clothes.

Total Weekly Hygiene Visits: 282

Establish family-home vegetable gardens.

Total Establish Gardens: 12

Ways To Donate

Visit www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org to donate securely with a one-time gift or a recurring monthly donation. For more specific information on designating CFO for living gifts, wills, or trusts, email donorinfo@theoutreach.org. You can also learn about our matching gift programs and various planned giving opportunities.

Casa Franciscana Outreach is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization organized under Arizona and United States laws. All contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by those laws. EIN/tax ID number: 86-0609895.

Casa Franciscana Outreach PO Box 15576 Scottsdale, AZ 85267

info@theoutreach.org

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 01:11:00 GMT

As we approach St. Francis’s Transitus , we are reminded of his attention to the sick. Every year, on the third evening of October, Franciscans ritually remember Francis of Assisi’s passing from this life into God as a reminder to renew one’s commitment to follow Christ in the way of the poor man from Assisi.

It’s heartbreaking to know that among the marginalized populations, particularly low-income individuals in Mexico, there is a higher prevalence of diabetes. Approximately 1 in 6 adults in Mexico is diabetic, with an even higher prevalence among those living in poverty. This disproportionately affects the communities served by the Casa Franciscana Mission, leading to severe health complications, including disability, amputations, kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, and loss of livelihood.

“It’s essential to recognize that physical illnesses can affect one’s mental and spiritual well-being, underlining the need to address these areas for effective self-care.”

The Mission has introduced a diabetes education program designed specifically for Hispanics. Our partners at Advance Community (formerly Esperança) trained our nurses for the program. We are grateful to witness prayers being answered through the opportunity to offer relief to many of the Mission’s suffering diabetics. The impact of our work is profound, providing each attendee with a glucometer and a year’s supply of expensive test strips with lancets – an approximate cost of $700 per person.

These supplies are financially unattainable for many and do not include insulin and syringes if needed. However, the program also includes modifying diets and continuous follow-up with our staff, making it a comprehensive and practical approach to managing diabetes. Your support will provide the necessary supplies and ensure the recipients receive the guidance and care needed.

St. Francis of Assisi’s values and vision revolve around serving the poor and marginalized, recognizing the inherent worth of each individual, embracing beauty, showing respect for all creation, and having faith in a personal and caring God.

Your $700 contribution can provide a year’s worth of supplies for someone in need. Whether the amount is large or small, it can give hope and assistance. Please open your hearts and consider the impact you can make. As a Franciscan and a diabetic, I urge you to help.

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

The post Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi appeared first on Casa Franciscana Outreach .

Home Gardens Can Bring a Community Together

mhiland@gmail.com (Mark Hiland) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:25:10 GMT

During Saint Francis’s lifetime, he once encountered a vast and beautiful wildflower meadow, which deeply captivated him. He saw it as a powerful symbol of living in a way that respects and honors nature as God’s creation.

I nspired by this experience, he envisioned and encouraged Friars to create a garden – a harmonious blend of plants, including fruit trees and strategically positioned rows of vegetables that would bloom and flourish, providing nourishment.

When the Casa Franciscana Outreach (CFO) first initiated the Home Garden Project , the goal was to cultivate these gardens and promote self-sufficiency and a healthier living by providing nourishment, as Saint Francis had encouraged the Friars to do. The end goal was to inspire more families to establish similar green spaces. To do this, it was necessary to provide the first 12 families with essential resources such as seeds, young trees, tools, fencing, and a water tank.

Earlier in the year, a group of pilgrims from Arizona traveled to Guaymas to support the Franciscan Mission. During their visit, they assisted those in need of home care and stopped by Don José’s house, one of the first recipients of the Home Garden Project.

When we entered Don José’s backyard, he proudly showed us his garden. It was filled with vegetables thriving in the scorching sun. He pointed out his tomato plants, which were starting to bloom.

Don José has been tending to his backyard garden for a few years now. His hard work yields fresh produce to support himself and his family, and he also sells excess produce in his neighborhood to generate additional income to cover other household expenses.

Projects such as the Home Garden can bring a community together by offering access to fresh, homegrown produce and pointing local residents toward a healthier and sustainable alternative lifestyle.

Allocating funds for the provision of essential resources is necessary to expand these gardens to additional families. Would you consider making a generous donation to respect and honor Saint Francis’s vision?

“The triumph of a garden is not only a personal achievement but also a vital legacy to be passed down to future generations supporting the people in Guaymas, Mexico.” - Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Shoes Make a BIG Difference every year in Guaymas

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 17:53:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

ASK THESE CHILDREN IF WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!!

Each year we discover more children deprived of education because they don’t have shoes to attend class. Last year you opened your hearts AND a path out of poverty for 2,150 children. You funded shoes giving them the opportunity to go to school, 32% more than 2023!!! We are also seeing more of the children that we serve go on to middle and secondario (a form of high school) schools.

We, Franciscans, are known as Master Beggars. So once again, I am asking for your generosity to buy shoes for children to go to school. I wish that you could experience, in person, the joy of a child receiving new shoes. What a simple blessing to provide and a way to participate in God’s work!

This is also a great summer project for your children to earn money toward shoes for a boy or girl, perhaps their age, living in dire poverty.

Our team physically goes out to the camps and neighborhoods measuring feet and accommodating sizes. Although these feet are tinier, in some ways, it reminds me of Christ washing the feet of his beloved disciples. Twenty-five dollars ($25) will allow us to provide a pair of new shoes that fit properly. Our exchange rate is less favorable than in the past.

Donations can be made online at:
www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org
or send to PO Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Do not take your own blessings for granted. Make a true difference in a young life. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Christ will surely smile on you for bringing smiles to His children.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra

Ask These Children: Are We Making a Difference?

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 22:59:00 GMT

From Fr. Martin Ibarra OFM:

Each year we discover more children deprived of education because they don’t have shoes to attend class.Last year you opened your hearts AND a path out of poverty for 2,150 children. You funded shoes giving them the opportunity to go to school, 32% more than 2023!!! We are also seeing more of the children that we serve go on to middle and secondario (a form of high school) schools.

We, Franciscans, are known as Master Beggars. So once again, I am asking for your generosity to buy shoes for children to go to school. I wish that you could experience, in person, the joy of a child receiving new shoes. What a simple blessing to provide and a way to participate in God’s work!

This is also a great summer project for your children to earn money toward shoes for a boy or girl, perhaps their age, living in dire poverty.

Our team physically goes out to the camps and neighborhoods measuring feet and accommodating sizes. Although these feet are tinier, in some ways, it reminds me of Christ washing the feet of his beloved disciples. Twenty-five dollars ($25) will allow us to provide a pair of new shoes that fit properly. Our exchange rate is less favorable than in the past. Donations can be made online: www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org or sent to PO Box 15576, Scottsdale, Az 85267 or

Do not take your own blessings for granted. Make a true difference in a young life. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Christ will surely smile on you for bringing smiles to His children.

What on Earth Are You Doing for Earth Day

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 20:14:00 GMT

St. Francis was known for his love of nature and he had a deep commitment to the care of creation . Some consider him the original Earth Day advocate. There are many stories of his friendship with animals including the wild wolf of Gubbio. While we are not recommending that you attempt to befriend a wild wolf, we are suggesting that you do something to observe Earth Day .

You could buy and plant a tree (we planted 30 at the Mission) or take a day to pick up trash in the desert or switch to renewable energy or decrease your water usage or all of these. While you are contemplating what your role and responsibility is or will be, here is a bold but easy suggestion that has demonstrated amazing outcomes. In 2022, 12 home gardens were funded by the Casa Franciscana Mission. We witnessed the harvesting of vegetables that DID lead to improved diets and the pride of accomplishment that went with them. Some were able to share vegetables with neighbors. One man grew enough to sell the extra and help to support his family.

The bold suggestion is to open your wallets or use your mobile phone which you probably have with you and donate to the Mission’s care for creation projects like the home gardens. It is not only a simple way for you to observe Earth Day but a way to give honor and praise to God for providing us with this beautiful Mother Earth. Shouldn’t EVERY day be Earth Day ?

The Resurrection Door

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 03:01:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

There is a door at the Mission that, due to its design, we call the Resurrection Door. However, I think of it as the Resurrection Door because of all the lives that have risen from pain and hopelessness through our programs.

A few examples are: the volunteer at the Meson who is now giving back because we were there when he needed us; the ten year old farmworker’s son who has embraced our education project as a way out of working in the fields; the 600 men, women and children treated during our medical mission in
January; the migrants on the infamous train, La Bestia, who prayed with us in their own languages AND religions; telling us that we had restored their faith in humanity with our aid.

A few weeks ago, I had my own “resurrection”. I was accompanying our team to visit Jesus (his real name). He is an elderly man who broke his hip four years ago and never had it treated. Now he is totally bedridden in his one room shack. We bring food and supplies. His special treat is instant coffee that he makes in a saucepan on a one burner hotplate up close to his bed. Our remarkable staff bathes him, changes bed linens and cleans his small living area.

We saw no bitterness, despair or self-pity. His eyes were filled with joy and love. I truly felt that I was in the presence of Jesus Christ. Yes, we try to find the face of Jesus in all that we meet but I realized that we should strive to have everyone find the face of Jesus in us. There is a difference between serving our
brethren or walking together with them. That is how God intended it. Each holding up the other. I felt how this humble man held me up.

This Easter, as we celebrate the glorious Resurrection, walk with your brethren. It may be through a donation, volunteerism, a smile on the street to a homeless person. If you pay attention, you will have God and others “walking” with you.

Let everything you do be done in love,
Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Save Taxes Through Donations From Your IRA

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 16:44:00 GMT

Generally, all distributions from IRA (excluding Roth) and 401(k) accounts are included in taxable income. An exception is available for donors who are 70 ½ or older under the qualified charitable distribution (QCD) rule. Those donors can direct amounts from their IRA and 401(k) accounts to qualified charities and exclude the donated amount from taxable income. Casa Franciscana Outreach is a qualified charitable

QCDs must be transferred directly to the charity. Donors will lose the deduction if the distribution is paid first to them and then passed on to the charity. Click here to download form to use for your IRA QCD.

QCDs can be included as part of the annual required minimum distributions that donors must withdraw. Using this method provides a tax benefit for donations without having to itemize deductions. Reporting lower adjusted gross income (AGI) may also help a donor stay in a lower tax bracket or reduce taxation of social security benefits.

Note: The IRA custodians will report the total amount of distributions, including QCD amounts, on year-end 1099s . Donors must provide their tax professionals with the QCD information to alert them of the reduced taxable amount . Online and other tax programs that donors may use to prepare their taxes include a question or line to report QCDs.

Author: Julie Ferrell

A Guiding Light?

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:23:00 GMT

We are all familiar with the story of Baby Jesus asleep in the manager with parents and a guiding star to provide protection, love, and care – every child’s need and hope. Four year old Sergito’s and six year old Carlita’s story is very different. One day he and his sister walked hand in hand into our children’s dining room at Fatima. No one knew where they came from or where they lived. The boy was bone thin and devoured three helpings of food.

On another day, the boy came to the dining room with black eyes and what appeared to be a broken nose. Our staff learned the shocking details. The children’s mother did not want them and left them with their grandmother, who also did not want them. Sergito was forced to stay outside; to sleep on a board (refer to picture) and to forage for food . Starving and seeking food in the house, he boldly ran in and was beaten with a pipe. The police were notified and took the children. With God’s guidance, our kind and persistent team implored the police to allow the children to live at the Hogar Paz y Bien, an orphanage formally funded by the CFO until it became self-sustaining. Today Sergito and his sister, under the care of the good sisters at Hogar, are thriving and happy with their new “family”. On weekends, the Mission staff take the children into their homes where they are also treated as family.

How did Carlota know of our children’s dining room? How did she find it? What would have happened to these children if she had not? What if we had not opened a children’s dining room In Fatima? This is only one of the many stories of a guiding “light” bringing those in need to the Mission’s services and a God that cares.

You are a part of Sergito’s and Carlota’s family. Without you and your donations, Sergito would still be sleeping outside on a board, starving, suffering abuse or, perhaps, dead. Yes, you are a part of God’s plan that brings light to our Mission family every day. Please help to keep that light and protection shining by being extra generous this blessed Christmas season.

May you be filled with light and peace,

FR. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Our New United States Citizen

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:21:00 GMT

On October 6, 2023 I was honored to attend the ceremony where our beloved Fr. Martin became a U.S. citizen. It was on his 19-year journey to citizenship that he was guided to a parish in San Jose, CA. where he was introduced to the Franciscans and found his vocation!

The citizenship ceremony was amazing as many came up to the microphone to give their stories. A ten-year-old girl, crying, congratulated her mother and thanked her for her struggles to get here so that the child could go to school. A Palestinian wife of a new U.S. citizen Israeli talked about escaping bad things in her country. All said how great this country is and how grateful they are to be here. Fr. Martin shared with the group that while taking his oath, he was also praying for those who were on their way and for those who died on the journey.

The judge was very warm and welcoming – not a dry eye in the packed courtroom. One of the pics is Fr. M’s first act as a U.S. citizen, registering to vote! The hope is that all of our readers who are eligible to vote are registered and do vote. Also, that they pray for discernment when making their choices.

It had been years since I said the Pledge of Allegiance but on that day the words “…one nation under God” had new meaning for me as I, too, fought back the tears. Congrats, Fr. Martin; our country is fortunate to have you. Peace and good to all the new citizens and their families!!

The post Our New United States Citizen appeared first on Casa Franciscana Outreach .

Diabetic Education Program a Reality

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:19:00 GMT

Señor Gomez is a 53 year old diabetic with high blood pressure and resulting amputations of the right leg and left foot. He is one of 30 similar diabetic sisters and brothers that our new specially trained diabetic education team will follow. The hope is that, if taught to manage diabetes, their quality of life will improve and the damage to their bodies will not progress further. For example, Sr. Gomez only knew that he was not supposed to eat dessert which is a small part of controlling this disease. Now he has the tools to monitor his blood glucose (sugar) and the knowledge of appropriate foods and actions. He also receives a food box each month with diabetic healthy foods and wound care twice a month to prevent infection. Monitoring and education come with each visit.

The longer-range goal is early detection of diabetes which strikes one out of six Mexicans (higher rates among the poor). The team will work to prevent the debilitating and often fatal outcomes that they are currently witnessing. These include amputations, as with Sr. Gomez, kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, inability to work or care for themselves and more.The effects throw the poor deeper into poverty and despair.

The Diabetic Education Program that the Mission adopted was specifically designed for the Hispanic population by the University of Illinois. A hand selected team of nurses and teachers on the Mission staff attended the program conducted by our benevolent partner, Advance Community (formerly Espera ç a). We enthusiastically thank them for their concern, time, and expertise in the community health of the areas that the Casa Franciscana serves.

As with many needed programs, funding remains an issue since the cost for the glucose monitor, a year’s supply of test strips and lancets is $700 per person. This does not include staff pay, travel expenses, medications, dressings, walking devices and other implements. Our own Fr. Martin is a diabetic and thanks God every day that he has the tools to manage this difficult disease. You may want to donate to honor a diabetic person that you know. Improved health is an amazing gift anytime of the year but what better time than Christmas. You can be the instrument of great tidings and joy without leaving your home. God will see the light in your heart!

Your Impact in 2023

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:18:00 GMT

Diabetes Impact on the Poor

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:48:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

Mexico’s marginalized populations are at higher risk of developing diseases like diabetes – a sickness costly to manage for low-income individuals. Mexico has a diabetic rate of 1 in 6 adults. With the poor, it is higher resulting in heartbreaking disability, amputations, kidney failure, blindness, heart disease and inability to work throwing them into deeper poverty. We witness this daily amongst our brothers and sisters that we serve at the Casa Franciscana Mission.

I AM a diabetic but blessed enough to have access to the proper tools to cope with this difficult disease. Now Our Lord is, again, answering prayers with the opportunity to bring relief to many of the Mission’s suffering diabetics! We are excited that Advance, formerly Esperança, is training our lead nurse in a program designed by the University of Illinois to educate diabetic Hispanics on management of the disease. Much of the program’s success is attributed to providing to each attendee a glucometer and a year’s worth of the expensive test strips with lancets – approximately $700 per person.

These supplies are financially out of their reach and do not include insulin and syringes if needed. Modifying diets and follow up by our staff are some of the other aspects of this multifaceted program. As the transitus (passing) of St. Francis approaches, we recall that he was known for his attention to the sick. One of his teachings was to “serve him (the sick) as you would like to be served yourself.” You can honor St. Francis and help to follow his teachings. While contributing $700 provides a year’s worth of supplies for a suffering human being, any amount, large or small, helps toward delivering hope and aid. Please open your hearts! As a Franciscan and a diabetic, I am begging you!

The peace and good of God and St. Francis,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Casa Franciscana Featured in International Magazine

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 22:03:00 GMT

Photo by Rick Rusch: San Xavier Mission Tucson, AZ on the way to Casa Franciscana, Guaymas, MX

Eclair is an international magazine about celebrities, fashion, art and beauty . So how did the article, Humanitarian Travel: A Journey of Impact and Hope (Volume 41 Issue 184) , about the Casa Franciscana Mission happen to be included in it?! Perhaps it was the work of the Holy Spirit that led professional photographer, Rick Rusch, to join a Casa Franciscana Service Pilgrimage to Guaymas,MX where he found a life changing experience. He visited the medical/dental clinic, dining rooms and migrant shelter. He also witnessed the educational support at the youth center and helped to deliver food packages to the home-bound.

In Rick’s words: (his) heart was overwhelmed with profound emotions. The result was that he wants to live a fuller life of gratitude, generosity, compassion and passionate hope . As also included in the article: he is moving on a new set of exploring human needs as way to cultivate his own spiritual growth and to spread the word about basic human needs… It was a humbling experience to accompany the Mission workers as they made their rounds to deliver basic necessities… What Rick saw in their eyes was appreciation and hope…the impact that even a small act of kindness can have on people living in poverty .

If you are looking for a similar experience, the next service pilgrimage to the Mission is October 2-5, 2023 for more information and to sign up go to the home page then to service pilgrimage.

Keep the poor, the Mission workers and our pilgrims in your prayers.

Imagine Never Having a Pair of Shoes

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 04:24:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

SHOES! Imagine never having a pair of shoes or imagine sharing shoes with siblings to take turns going to school!!

Each year we discover more children deprived of education due to not having shoes to attend class. Last year you opened your hearts AND opened a path out of poverty for 1,467children by funding shoes giving the opportunity to go to school – 35% more than 2021!!!

We Franciscans are known as Master Beggars. So once again, I am asking for your generosity to buy shoes for children. You know from your own families how quickly children outgrow and wear out shoes! I wish that you could see the joy of a child having his first pair of new shoes. What a simple blessing to provide!

Our team is physically going out to the camps and neighborhoods measuring feet and accommodating sizes. Although these feet are tinier, in some ways, it reminds me of Christ washing the feet of his beloved disciples. Twenty-five dollars ($25) will allow us to provide a pair of new shoes that fit properly.

Donations can be made online at:
www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org
or
send to PO Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Do not take your own blessings for granted. Please do whatever you can to help make
a difference. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Christ will
surely smile on you for bringing smiles to his children.

Peace and all good
Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Home Gardens Sustain Life in Guaymas

Wed, 31 May 2023 00:07:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

Last year we started a pilot project of home gardens that was an overwhelming success! This is another version of “if you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime”. The idea is that by teaching our brothers and sisters to grow fruits and vegetables AND giving them the means to accomplish it. They, themselves, will produce healthier happier lives with less dependency on the Mission. A step out of poverty!

We witnessed the harvesting of vegetables (no fruit, yet) that DID lead to improved diets and the pride of accomplishment that went with them. Some were able to share vegetables with neighbors. One man grew enough to sell the extra and help to support his family.

Our next step is to assist more families to start gardens and ease their daily struggle for food. We supply the seeds, young trees, tools, crude fencing to keep out the goats and a WATER TANK mounted on a concrete base. The tank is the biggest but one – time expense necessary for success. The entire cost to set up a family for home gardening is $500. That is why we are reaching out to you to help your brothers and sisters to feed themselves and others. What an amazing gift in support of the Franciscan value of care for creation and a manifestation of your response to God’s call to “feed the hungry”! What a great Fathers’ Day gift!

A donation of ANY amount is welcome and can help.

send to PO Box 15576,Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Please share your own bounty and pray that the harvests of our gardens remain bountiful. Do whatever you can to make a true and sustainable difference. Thank you and God bless.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

Mothers’ Day Amazon Delivery: Casa Franciscana Style

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:54:00 GMT

The Casa Franciscana Mission brought tears of gratitude, smiles of happiness and a message of God’s love to almost 400

mothers amongst the poor and elderly. Many of these women are grandmothers raising grandchildren. The Mission staff and volunteers went out to the barrios and walked through dirt, ruts and stones to hand deliver flowers, a meal with a kilo of tortillas to share and a cake – a very special treat. One lonely grandmother was pleased just to have visitors.

After a long day, our staff, the Mission version of Amazon delivery, returned exhausted but knowing that they brought, at least, momentary joy to these women who had so little. They thanked God for their own mothers and all their blessings. Then they prayed:

Good and Gentle God, we pray in gratitude for our mothers and for all the women who have joined with you in the wonder of bringing forth new life. You who became human through a woman, grant to all mothers the courage they need to face the uncertain future that life with children, young or old, always brings. Send forth your love and watch over them.

God, bless all the mothers of the world on this special day and hold those that have passed in your tender arms. God, bless our donors who made this kindness possible!

Watch Casa Franciscana at work for Mother’s Day

Earth Day: Are You Sharing Your Bounty

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 17:35:00 GMT

In August 2022, we wrote to you about the first harvest of the home gardens in Guaymas funded and mentored by the Casa Franciscana Outreach. There are now ten gardens with accessible water tanks! The families are not only enjoying fresh healthy vegetables and the pride of growing them but they are sharing their bounty with neighbors! Some have a large enough yield to sell for a small income.

On this Earth Day, how are you sharing your bounty? It may be like our Guaymas brothers and sisters by sharing the abundance of your garden. Perhaps, it is sharing your time and labor by volunteering at a food bank or participating in other nonprofit activities. It may be by donating to the Casa Franciscana Mission or other service organizations.

St Francis observed Earth Day every day and was named the patron saint of ecology by Pope John Paul II. One of the Franciscan values is “care for creation”. In honor of St. Francis and by caring for creation you can grow in your “ecological conscious”. Look for ways to conserve water and electricity. Cut down on trips with gas powered cars (walk more). Reduce plastic use, especially water bottles! Be aware of the waste that you generate. Plant a tree. Instill these habits in your children.

On this Earth Day do something to observe this special time whether it is sharing your bounty or caring for creation or both. If you honor Mother Earth, our heavenly Father will surely reward you.

Wishing you peace and all good!

Mission of Hope: A Family’s Story

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 03:42:00 GMT

Teresita Hernandez Uribe and her son Jesus use the Mesón de Jesús dining room regularly. Tere, as we call her, is 36 years old and she has been going to our Mesón for about eight years. She has two children, but one of them, 13-year-old Luisito, moved with his grandmother to Mazatlan because his family could not financially support two children. Her second son, Jesús Gerardo, is six years old and often comes with Tere to eat at the Mesón.

Tere and Jesus enjoy coming to the facility for their meals, but unfortunately, they can’t come every day because they live far away from the Mesón and don’t always have money for transportation. Her husband, Gerardo, is currently working but earns very little. Tere helps the family earn money by selling candy on the street. Most of that money is used to pay for her transportation.

Tere tells us that things were difficult during the pandemic. Her health was fragile and she was always afraid of going to the Mesón. She said that Jesus was often sad that they couldn’t go inside and eat at the facility, and he wanted the pandemic to end so they could come in and sit down. Thank God that now that the pandemic is under control, our brothers and sisters can finally enter. Tere and Jesus can eat more dignifiedly, sit down and wash their hands.

Eating here is a great gift for them, and taking portions home ensures they have something for dinner. They know they will always have food here, even if money is tight.

When sick, they are treated at our clinic and given everything they need, including medicine, clothes and blankets. Jesus, he is a rambunctious boy, we have known him since he was just a baby, and we have joyfully watched him grow. He proudly tells us about his progress at school, and he plays and runs around the dining room. In the month of December, we celebrated his sixth birthday.

Everyone who enters is important at our mission, but children like Jesus have a special place in our hearts. They are truly a gift and never alone!

Love is the Legacy: A Grandmother’s Story

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 03:40:00 GMT

Elvia Dolores Apodaca is a regular guest at our dining hall, the Mesón de Jesús, which translates into the “Table of Christ.” Typically, she comes to receive breakfast and takes food home afterward for her grandchildren. We know her as Lolita, and at 59 years old, she has been dining with us for more than 14 years and lives in a neighborhood near Casa Franciscana.

Lolita has two children, Patricia and Antonio, who are adults. Antonio is married, and Patricia is single and has three children. Unfortunately, Patricia fell into drug addiction and does not properly care for her children: Ivan, 17, Paul, 13, and Itzel, eight.

When she was younger, Lolita worked in restaurants and fish processing plants. She works anywhere she can: cleaning houses, caring for the sick, or as a street vendor. She is the one who has to bring food home and cover her grandchildren’s needs. Her life is difficult and the little money she makes is not enough. Going to the Meson often is her only way of finding the help she needs to bring food to her family.

Her family receives monthly food boxes and they are also supported with medical services. Lolita suffers from diabetes and chronic pain in her shoulder and bones, and she receives medication from our free clinic. Despite her considerable challenges, Lola is cheerful and likes to talk and joke with the other ladies who come to the Mesón. When she is absent, everyone misses her because the Meson is like her second home.

To us, Lolita is an example of strength and love. She is a daily example of not letting yourself be overcome in the face of adversity. She is a proud Mexican grandmother with an unconditional love for her grandchildren, who know that, with the help of God and Casa Franciscana Guaymas, there is hope. She is determined to build a better life for her family. Elvia Dolores Apodaca is one of many grandmothers who head up a family. In our vulnerable community of Guaymas, this is quite common. On their behalf, we thank the donors who help these beautiful women continue their legacy of love.

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A Mission Transformation

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 03:38:00 GMT

The Casa Franciscana Guaymas has undergone an extraordinary transformation during these last three years. Fr. Martin Ibarra has challenged us to take our services out to all the local and neighboring communities to reach the people who need our help the most. We have transitioned what was an internal operation before the pandemic into an external ministry, which now delivers our goods and services to local communities.

We are guided fraternally by our brothers and sisters, who are the center of the mission and must be treated with dignity, joy and solidarity. Fr. Martin encourages us to live by accountability, transparency and relationship. This helps us make the best decisions, always seeking the well-being of others first.

The External Ministry covers the needs of many people who cannot reach our facility for various reasons. For example, 83-year-old Mrs. María Méndez is hypertensive and diabetic and oversees her 42-year-old son Alfonso, who suffers from down syndrome and autism. Doña María lives in a humble shack. Caring for her son is challenging since “Ponchito,” as she calls him, is in failing health. When he needs his medication, he becomes aggressive, until he reaches the point of physical aggression toward her.

About two months ago, Doña María was dealing with a severe medical issue. She had injured her big toe, and the sore would not heal. Our nurse Sandra, who is in charge of the external and clinical ministry, diagnosed and assessed the problem and immediately followed up with her. Casa Franciscana made an appointment with a podiatrist, paid for her lab studies and her prescriptions were filled at our pharmacy at no cost. Additionally, we made home visits daily to administer her treatment and monitor the healing of her injured toe. The doctor recommended rest for faster healing, which was very difficult for her as she has no family members to help care for her special needs adult child.

Thanks to the External Ministry, many other cases have been detected in which the accompaniment of our brothers and sisters has been carried out. We are sure these people cannot seek services at our facility.

Being in the administration department, I can participate in all the programs, such as accompanying Armando our Social Worker to the delivery of the food pantries at home, supporting Lizeth in preparing food in the Meson de Jesus and being face-to-face with marginalized families, children, destitute, elderly and immigrants, who go through challenging situations in their lives. Bearing witness to all of this has changed my life in unimaginable ways, and I am so grateful.

Irma Convarrubias, Casa Franciscana Admin Manager

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Fry’s

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:33:00 GMT

Casa Franciscana Outreach joined the Fry’s Community Rewards program and a percent of what you spend will be donated to us at NO COST to you.

STEP 1: CREATING AN ONLINE FRY’S ACCOUNT

**NOTE: Already have an online Fry’s account, skip to #2

Go to www.FrysCommunityRewards.com

STEP 2: REGISTER FOR THE FRY’S COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM

If you have registered correctly, you will see a confirmation page stating ‘You have successfully enrolled in Community Rewards’

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Individual Fundraisers

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:31:00 GMT

Sometimes organizations, children, students or others are looking to support a humanitarian cause as part of their own community service or through the kindness of their hearts. It may be something as simple as a lemonade stand or a challenge to swim laps or walk miles. If you or someone you know is “looking for a cause” please share our story with them. God bless you!

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Grants

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:30:00 GMT

If you become aware of a grant or other funding opportunities for which the CFO may be eligible, we would appreciate it if you would email the information to us at casafranciscanaoutreach@gmail.com

The post Grants appeared first on Casa Franciscana Outreach .

Amazon Smile

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:29:00 GMT

More and more people shop Amazon for everything from food items to the latest electronic fad. The Amazon Smile Program contributes a percent of select Amazon purchases to the charity of your choice. It does not cost you anything. Casa Franciscana Outreach is one of the listed charities. For more information and to register go to: https://smile.amazon.com/

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Matching Funds

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:28:00 GMT

Thousands of employers match their employees’ charitable contributions. Some also match contributions for retirees. This does not cost you anything but a few minutes and could substantially impact the Mission programs. Investigate if your employer matches donations and what you must do to include the Casa Franciscana Outreach. Employers may verify your donation by emailing to casafranciscanaoutreach@gmail.com or ground mail at CFO, P.O. Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267 . Remember, we are a U.S. 501C3 nonprofit organization. A partial list of matching employers is found at our Corporate Matching Gifts page.

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Will and Trusts

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:26:00 GMT

A will is a legal document that allows people to express their wishes posthumously for how their property should be managed and distributed after their death.

A trust fund is a legal arrangements that allow individuals to place assets in a special account to benefit another person or entity . Trust funds often require the assistance of a professional to set up, though there are online tools for the do-it-yourselfer.

Both entities can designate the CFO as a beneficiary of all or part of the assets and may help to reduce federal estate taxes. They can also be changed at anytime.

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IRA Charitable Rollover

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:22:00 GMT

The charitable IRA rollover, or qualified charitable distribution (QCD), is a special provision allowing particular donors of age 70.5 to exclude from taxable income—and count toward their required minimum distribution—certain transfers of Individual Retirement Account (IRA) assets that are made directly to charities recognized by the IRS. A Roth IRA differs from a traditional IRA.

A charitable IRA rollover makes it easier to use your IRA assets, during lifetime, to make charitable gifts. Your qualified charitable distributions can satisfy all or part the amount of your required minimum distribution from your IRA and would be excluded from income providing a tax deduction. States and municipalities differ on whether you need to include the distribution in your taxable income. Check with your tax or financial advisor, or your taxing authority, to be sure.

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Your Impact in 2022

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:43:00 GMT

The Words of the Children You Helped

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:38:00 GMT

The post The Words of the Children You Helped appeared first on Casa Franciscana Outreach .

Christmas Is Love in Action

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 20:33:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

During the Christmas season, we naturally think of children. This year, little five year old Rigolito or Rigo is especially in my thoughts. We met him on a hot humid Guaymas day while we were visiting the sick and delivering food boxes. His sister came running to us; telling us that her brother was sick and her mother was crying.

We found Rigo in a small sweltering home in bed with a very high fever. His mother was trying to cool him with wet clothes and told us that he had a genetic condition called anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. This condition reduces the body’s ability to sweat which is its natural cooling system. Also, there is a limited growth of teeth among other symptoms. He only had three teeth which resulted in nutritional deficiencies. Sandra, our nurse worked to bring down his temperature and we were able to provide a small air conditioner for the house to prevent more fevers from his body’s inability to cool.

You cannot help but to fall in love with this sweet child. Despite his ongoing affliction, you will always find him smiling. Before I could say ten Our Fathers, Sandra had contacted one of our volunteer dentists who made him dentures. Our volunteer physician helped to ease his skin condition and Armando, our social worker, arranged for the family to be on our food box list and other services.

If the Holy Spirit had not brought us to this barrio on that day, Rigolito might have died. Instead, he is thriving and with our continued support, he can lead a normal life. His is just one of the stories of the many children whose lives we were able to improve.

You and God’s grace make it possible for us to go into the barrios and provide our ministry. We are blessed to have Christ’s love and to give it others. Please continue to help support all those, especially the children, served by the Casa Franciscana Mission. Christmas is love in action.

Wishing you joy and peace,

Fr. Martin, OFM

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Donor-advised funds (DAF)

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 04:53:00 GMT

Donor-advised funds (DAF) are the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the United States because they are easy and offer a tax advantage. When you contribute cash, securities or other assets through a DAF to a public charity, like Casa Franciscana Outreach, you are generally eligible to take an immediate tax deduction. Then those funds can be invested for tax-free growth and given as “grants” to us as an IRS-qualified public charity.

We’re excited to announce our ability to use the DAF Direct option within Charles Schwab, Fidelity Investments and BYN Mellon for an automated deposit. Just login into your investment account and select
the DAF option or click the link, select your investment company and it will take you to your account.

If you don’t use those investment options, you may donate by working with your investment company to manually direct your donation to our account noted below:

By Gift of Stock:
Financial Institution: LPL Financial
DTC #: 0075
Account Name: Casa Franciscana Outreach (TIN: 86-0609895)
Account Number: 56037140

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Ron Cope: He Was A Special Blessing

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We are all called to serve the Lord’s kingdom here on earth in different ways. Some to pray, some to lead, and some as soldiers. Ron Cope answered the Lord’s call many years ago with a service retreat to our Franciscan Mission in Guaymas, Mexico. Whatever happened on that trip changed Ron’s heart forever.

Ron became one of Casa Francescana Outreach largest financial supporters, as well as a frequent traveler to do God’s work with the poor in Guaymas. Ron became known as Mr. Fix-it at the Mission. If it needed repaired, Ron could fix it. Plumbing, electrical, carpentry; Ron could do it all and he graciously taught others how to do repairs as well. With it all was his wonderful sense of humor. He was like the Pied Piper with children – maybe it was those lollypops in his pocket! He became a great friend and benefactor to the friars and an even closer friend to Br. Ivo Tonek, who many of you will remember for his love of music and founding of mariachi groups which morphed into Belles Artes, a youth symphony. The two would sit and solve construction and other problems together.

Ron Cope went home to the Father on Sunday, October 23 ^rd , and with his passing he leaves a void that will be hard to fill. He was one of Our Lord’s soldiers here on earth, always ready to serve, and never asking anything in return. Peace and all Good to you friend. You have earned a well-deserved place in heaven, and we will miss you dearly.

Your Brother in Christ

Bob Urian

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Bringing Relief and Hope

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 09:53:00 GMT

My dear brothers and sisters,

Walk with me down the dusty road to the shack of Rogelio. He is one of the many elderly that we visit, carrying a hot meal, food boxes, medicines, hygiene products, mobility devices, bedding and spiritual care. He was amazed and cried when our team brought out a bucket and mop and cleaned his humble home!

One of Rogelio’s fears was that he would die alone. Now he knows that he will have regular visits and we are praying for him. He feels God back in his life. He feels relief and hope.

Each month we deliver 1,000 food boxes to our brothers and sisters with stories like the one of Rogelio. As the Transitus (passing from this life to the next, October 3) of St. Francis approaches, I reflect on his death. He was surrounded by his brothers and knights from Assisi while music played. We may not be able to offer these features to our sick and dying but with your help we can provide comfort and dignity. What better way to honor the Transitus of our loving Francis.

I am reaching out to you to help us to help the forgotten ones. They deserve some respite from their daily burdens that we cannot even imagine. You can help to provide it. I am asking you for twenty-five dollars ($25) to allow us to continue. Donations can be made online:

send to PO Box 15576,Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Let us show these abandoned that God has not forgotten them. Surely, God will remember what you did for His children in His name at the time of your transitus.

With the love of St. Francis and peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 20:28:28 GMT

As we approach St. Francis’s Transitus , we are reminded of his attention to the sick. Every year, on the third evening of October, Franciscans ritually remember Francis of Assisi’s passing from this life into God as a reminder to renew one’s commitment to follow Christ in the way of the poor man from Assisi.

“It’s essential to recognize that physical illnesses can affect one’s mental and spiritual well-being, underlining the need to address these areas for effective self-care.”

First Harvest for Casa Franciscana

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 00:36:00 GMT

On Earth Day 2022,we shared our new pilot project of home gardens. The vision is that the fruit and vegetables will provide wholesome vitamin rich food for the family and to share with neighbors. Perhaps, in the future, they will grow large enough gardens to sell some of their produce to other villages.

One of the lessons learned was that the local rabbits and deer enjoy young seedlings. So the new farmers experienced an unintended consequence “in caring for creation”!! Wiring and netting was installed and this August the first crops were ready for harvest – corn, watermelon, carrots, squash.

If you ever grew anything yourself, you know the joy of watching it grow, picking it and eating it. The poor, who have very little to celebrate, are experiencing this sense of accomplishment. The produce is not the vegetable remnants of the commercial growers but organic, fresh and their own.

This is another version of “if you give a man a fish (or vegetable), you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish (or farm), you feed him for a lifetime.”

As we wait for the fruit trees to produce their bounty, we thank you for supporting this project. Please pray for not only continued success but the ability to expand it to other families. God bless you and your generous hearts.

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Imagine Children Without Shoes

Sat, 09 Jul 2022 04:53:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers ,

SHOES ! Imagine never having a pair of shoes or imagine sharing shoes with siblings to take turns going to school!!

During COVID, our Casa Franciscana Mission buildings were shut down; so we took our ministries directly to the people. We discovered even more children deprived of education due to not having shoes to attend class.

Last year you opened your hearts AND opened a path out of poverty for 1,086 children by funding shoes and the opportunity to go to school. That is the equivalent of 121 baseball teams!!

Yes, we Franciscans are known as Master Beggars. So once again, I am asking for your generosity to buy shoes for children. You know from your own families how quickly children outgrow and wear out shoes! I wish that you could see the joy of a child having his first pair of new shoes. What a simple blessing to provide!

Twenty dollars ($20) will allow us to provide a pair of new shoes that fit properly.

I have seen the Holy Spirit work through you and that you do not take your own blessings for granted. Please do whatever you can to help make a difference. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Christ will surely smile on you for bringing smiles to his children.

Peace and all good, good

Fr. Martin Ibarra , OFM

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Parents Caring about Parents

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 15:37:00 GMT

When people are asked “what would you take if you were forced to quickly evacuate your home?” the answer is always family photos. But imagine not having any! This is the situation of many of the poor that the Casa Franciscana Mission serves.

Frequently, as our team distributes shoes, they take pictures of the children which we share with you in our newsletters and letters. The parents and the children, themselves, are always excited to see them! We hear their stories about not having any pictures of the children as babies and growing up.

Thanks to the compassion and generosity of M.J. and Kevin Gralen, a photocopier using a smart phone was purchased with 1,000 sheets of photo quality paper. Now, a picture of each child receiving a pair of shoes will be given to the family.

As we approach Fathers’ Day, what a perfect gift for a father who may have never had a gift – at least one lasting memory of a precious child.

Mil gracias, M.J. and Kevin, for your big hearts and for caring about children and their parents!!

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A Memorial Day Call to Action

Wed, 25 May 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Gracious God,

Thank you that in our nation today, we are free to worship. We are free to pray. We are free to read your Word. We are free to speak. We are free to share. For this, we are incredibly grateful. Yet, we understand how quickly these freedoms can be taken away.

On this Memorial Day, we pray for those who courageously laid down their lives for the cause of freedom. May the examples of their sacrifice inspire in us the selfless love of Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Bless the families of our fallen troops, and fill their homes and their lives with Your strength and peace.

In union with people of goodwill of every nation, embolden us to answer the call to work for peace and justice, and thus, seek an end to violence and conflict around the globe .

We ask this through your name.

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Planting a New Tree of Life

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 17:21:00 GMT

One of the Franciscan values is care for creation which includes Mother Earth. In observance of Earth Day, Fr. Martin and his team gathered in a rural neighborhood outside of Guaymas where some of the poorest of the poor live. They were there to launch a new pilot project – to plant fruit trees. Even though the Guaymas area boasts large commercial agriculture, so many children and adults have diet deficiencies due to lack of vitamins found in fruit. Studies show that vitamin poor diets often go hand in hand with obesity and other chronic conditions.

Fr. Martin, staff and volunteers with Francisco Lopez and George Sabol (two CFO board members) worked all day to build a concrete base for a non-potable water tank, to install and to fill the tank, to dig holes for the small trees, to plant them, to fertilize them and lastly, to bless them. Other seeds were also purchased and planted – squash and corn are examples. The hope is that the fruit and vegetables will not only provide wholesome vitamin rich food for the neighborhood but perhaps, in the future, grow large enough for the gardeners to sell some of their produce to other villages.

If this pilot project is successful, “seed money” (yes, Fr. Tommy, a pun in your honor) will be provided for other orchards and gardens. This is another version of “if you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.”. The idea is that by teaching our brothers and sisters to grow fruits and vegetables and giving them the means to accomplish it; they, themselves, will produce healthier happier lives.

As YOU share in the abundance of our Mother Earth, please remember those who have little. One way of observing Earth Day 2022 is to offer a prayer and a donation to the Casa Franciscana Mission for them. This is also caring for creation.

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An Anonymous Grant to Bring Technology to the Poor

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 05:59:00 GMT

During COVID, with schools closed, the children of the poor were excluded from any form of instruction since they lacked all needed technology (tv, computers, internet and, in some cases, electricity). The Mission staff conceived a pilot project to address these impediments and we are very blessed to have it funded by a private Catholic foundation that wishes to remain anonymous.

The plan is to select 20 student, grades 1-6, from the poorest areas and distribute computers loaded with the grade curriculum and assignments of the Mexican government. Other resource materials such as math tutoring and encyclopedia computer programs will be added to prevent reliance on the internet. For those that do not have electricity, computer charging will be accommodated.

High level Mission staff will provide computer training and assure competence with basic functions. The next steps are to begin the assigned curricula for each child, monitor the students’ progress and the use of the computers. Additional monitoring and tutoring will be done with the assistance of local teachers. Needed school supplies (books, paper, pens, etc.), shoes and backpacks will also be provided.

Managing this program is no easy task with the distances for staff to travel; dealing with the student family issues of illiteracy, lack of basic necessities, health and other problems. Yes, the safekeeping of the computers is tenuous . However, with the ability of the Mission staff to win trust and promote the importance of literacy, we rely on the wisdom of our good St Francis who said: Start by doing what is necessary then do what’s possible and suddenly you are doing the impossible . Please pray to St. Francis and to the Holy Spirit for the success of this project.

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CFO Pilots Scholarship Program

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 05:48:00 GMT

Education is one of the few paths out of poverty for the marginalized children served by the Mission. While the Mexican government adopted education for grades 1-12, the new federalism gave states the obligation to manage schools. In some of the poorer areas, only 43.5% of 15 years of age have completed primary school. While “tuition” is free, a registration fee, books and school supplies are not making attending school unattainable when you are poor.

The CFO, through your donations, distributed 1,000 backpacks with school supplies. The more exciting news is that we also funded registration, books and school supplies for 10 middle school and 10 high school students giving them the opportunity to continue their education. The pilot program goals are:

The measures of success are that a minimum of 80% of scholarship students will:

Two of these teens are the daughters of Sabina, the young mother who died of pancreatic cancer and featured in our Christmas newsletter. The Mission promised Sabina to help her children continue school. This is one example of the “circle of life” that we see at Casa Franciscana.

Education is for improving lives of others and leaving the world better than you found it: Marian Wright Edelman. Please help to improve a small part of the world by opening you hearts and checkbooks (or charge cards, venmo, zelle, stock returns etc.) to help fund scholarships, books and school supplies. Make this a part of your Easter observance and a way of giving thanks for your own blessings.

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A Cross for Ramon

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 23:42:00 GMT

My dear sisters and brothers,

He had no form or majesty that we should look at him…he was despised and rejected by others. Isaiah 53:2-7. This was our brother Ramon. He was an alcoholic who lived on the streets and a frequent visitor to our food lines, clothing bank and medical clinic. One day, Ramon opened his heart to Armando, the Mission social worker.

As a young man, organized crime tried to recruit Ramon and he refused. The consequence was that his whole family was killed which drove him went down the path of alcohol. He only hoped that God would forgive him for falling into vice. It was the only thing that helped him to forget and not feel guilty about the death of his family. Armando cried with Ramon and told him that only God knows why He sends us difficult tests in our lives. As men we do not understand and that only the love of God saves us.

Since he had no relatives, the Mission arranged a simple service accompanied not only by staff but by many of the other street people that knew him. The tears and solidarity that day demonstrated that we are all sisters and brothers and it is not our place to judge.

How many had difficult life trials and how many of us made thorny decisions; passing through the world and leaving it without feeling loved as God’s children. We are all responsible to love our brothers. Let us live the gospel as Jesus taught us with the love of God demonstrated through our actions toward our brothers and sisters.

That day, as we remembered Ramon with a simple wooden cross to mark his presence on earth, you were in solidarity with us through your donations. They allowed some comfort to this suffering soul and a final memorial. Mil gracias and have a blessed Easter.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin, OFM

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Mission helped more individuals in 2021 than ever before

Sat, 04 Dec 2021 01:06:00 GMT

With the help of our dedicated staff in Guaymas and generous donor gifts, our Mission helped more individuals in 2021 than ever before. Our team overcame the challenges associated with Covid-19 restrictions by taking the Mission’s services on the road. Bringing assistance to individuals, families, the elderly and children in struggling communities, our mission was able to deliver:

57,807 MEALS TO ADULTS

13,479 MEALS TO CHILDREN

6,000 MEDICAL/DENTAL SERVICES

12,000 FOOD BOXES TO DISABLED; ELDERLY AND FAMILIES

932 EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE SESSIONS (TUTORING, COUNSELING, TECHNOLOGY FOR CLASS ACCESS)

4,284 IMMIGRANT RELIEF SERVICES (FOOD, MEDICINE, FIRST AID, HYDRATION

1000 BACKPACKS & SCHOOL SUPPLIES

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Angels All Around Us

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 00:29:00 GMT

Christmas and angels go together. The final touch of the Christmas tree is often the angel on the top. Yet, I’ve met angels in the disguise of ordinary people. One was Sabina, the mother of 12 and 14 year old daughters. We discovered her during our external ministry into the barrios. She was in unbearable pain suffering from pancreatic cancer. Sandra, one of our angels on the Mission staff, was able to arrange for Sabina, to receive chemotherapy in Hermosillo, two hours away. Other staff members went door to door to raise money to offset the costs of the trips and treatment. They knocked and every door opened no matter how poor.

I had the honor of bringing Sabina to Hermosillo for treatments and to witness the return of some quality of life for her. We walked the journey with her as she was told that the chemotherapy was no longer working. We were with her during her deterioration, bringing, food, medicine and prayers and had the joy of being with our brave warrior the day before her death. It was a very special moment for all present as I blessed her for the last time. I will always remember the smile on her face. Her life has been an inexhaustible source of deeper meaning; reminding us of what is truly important – to love and care for each other.

After celebrating a simple funeral at her home, our Mission staff angels pledged to continue to watch over her daughters. Our youth center made it possible for them to resume their studies since they had stopped to take care of their mother. Today, they continue to receive tutoring and psychological therapy through the center and food boxes.

The work of the staff and other resources would not have happened without you, our special angels. Please continue to share your blessings for others like Sabina. Thank you and pray for our ministry.

Peace and all good for this special season of love,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Feed the Hungry

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 01:38:00 GMT

My dear brothers and sisters, October, 2021

As the Transitus (passing from this life to the next) of St. Francis approaches , I reflect on the Janet Sullivan Whitaker verse: The hungry, the lonely, the forgotten, the neglected, abandoned, invisible, the homeless, the battered, the frightened, the hopeless, the dying. All of these are Me.

These are the people that we serve at the Casa Franciscana Mission. These are your brothers and sisters to whom you opened your Franciscan hearts by supporting our programs.

As COVID is still with us and most of our in-house services remain closed, we continue to venture into the marginalized areas with our “meals on heels”. Yes, we are carrying food boxes, medicines, mobility devices, bedding and spiritual care on foot. In the past the food boxes were primarily for the elderly and disabled. Now we also find single mothers with small children, young teenagers whose parents have died during the pandemic, widows – the forgotten ones.

My heart is heavy from seeing such poverty and need. So I am reaching out to you to help us to help the forgotten ones. They deserve some relief from their daily burdens that we cannot even imagine. You can help to provide that relief.

In addition to their direct needs, we need to protect our staff. This requires personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, gowns, disposable bags, cleaning supplies – all are at a premium.

I am asking you for twenty-five dollars ($25) to allow us to continue. Donations can be made online:

transitus.casafranciscana.org

send to PO Box 15576,Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Let us show these abandoned that God has not forgotten them. Surely, God will remember what you did for His children in His name at the time of your transitus. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Please, pray for the people we serve and for the protection of our staff in this ministry.

With the love of St. Francis and peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Every Child Should Have Shoes Too

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 04:33:00 GMT

My dear brothers and sisters,

Imagine children who have NEVER had shoes! I am Fr. Martin, Director of the Casa Franciscana Mission in Guaymas, MX. Each year we reach out to help the children as they prepare for school in the poor neighborhoods and migrant farmworker camps. Shoes are required for them to attend school but the majority of these children don’t have shoes. Imagine the heartache of parents who cannot afford to feed their families, making the choice to provide food over shoes these children need! .Yes, the food is necessary but cannot provide a way out of the daily crushing burden experienced by the poor. One of the few paths out of poverty is through education. Let’s send them to school.

Last year with the love and generosity of people like you we were able to buy shoes for 1,032 children . They have now outgrown and worn out those shoes. Smaller children are also ready for the opportunity to attend school. As many of you send your own children and grandchildren to school, please put their faces on a shoeless child standing outside of a shack of mattress frames and corrugated metal and cardboard. Reflect what Jesus would expect of you. Use this opportunity to involve your own children or other family members in helping these girls and boys who were born into poverty.

Twenty dollars ($20) will allow us to provide shoes that fit properly and to wear to school.

Donations can be made online at

https://casafranciscanaoutreach.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/casafranciscanaoutreach/donation.jsp?campaign=146&&test=true

or Checks can be sent to:

Casa Franciscana Outreach, PO Box 15576, Scottsdale AZ 85267.

For those of you who are not familiar with Casa Franciscana Outreach (CFO), we are a 501c(3) of the Franciscan Friars of St. Barabara, CA. We support the Casa Franciscana Mission in Mexico providing food, shelter, dental/medical care, social services and more. Pre-COVID, we also directed a women’s jewelry making co-op, a workforce development program which is currently on hold. We also operate a youth center for 12 to 18 year old’s similar to a Boys’ and Girls’ Club and a children’s dining room, both with limited services as the pandemic continues. Please check our website listed below for our history and additional programs.ut of p

I know your generous hearts and that the Holy Spirit will work through you. You will not take your own blessings for granted and will do whatever you can to help make a difference. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Please, pray for us and the people we serve, especially the children.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Successful heart surgery gives Esperanza hope

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 01:34:00 GMT

Esperanza (her name means hope) is sleepy after the ten hour all night drive from Guaymas in a crowded van.

Soon after she was born, a heart defect was discovered. Some say it was miracle that Casa Franciscana was able to get her to Phoenix where the good Shriner doctors from Utah were holding a clinic.

With the collaboration of the CFO, the Shriners and the Maricopa County Medical Center (now Valley Health) the complicated arrangements were made to transfer her to the Shriners’ Hospital in California where she underwent successful heart surgery.

Now Esperanza returns to the Shriners’ clinic in Phoenix for periodic monitoring but is otherwise leading the life of a normal four year old. Her favorite things about the Shriners’ visits are the fun toys, tv programs, movies, coloring books and treats at the host family homes – yes, she sounds like a normal four year old!

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The Shriners help Jose walk again

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 01:29:00 GMT

Jose has cerebral palsy.

He was totally incapacitated and difficult for his family to care for him with his misshapen legs. After treatment through the Shriners, he is able to walk with lightweight molded braces and special crutches that clip to his arms.

Jose is happy to attend school and to continue to receive treatment. As he grows, he receives new custom braces and crutches. In addition to partnering with the Shriners for Jose’s treatment, braces and crutches, the CFO shoe program has provided the new shoes to fit the new braces each time they are changed.

If you ask Jose his favorite part of the Shriners’ visits he will tell you it is finding pine cones on the Franciscan Renewal Center grounds. He had never seen a pine cone! This young man loves gathering them and taking them home to family and friends. Perhaps we have a budding botanist in the works!

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Shoes give Maria a new life

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 01:23:00 GMT

Maria was born with one leg shorter than the other.

As a toddler, she would not walk because it caused pain to her hip and she cried with frustration. Her mother heard about the Casa Franciscana trips to Phoenix for specialized medical care. She took Maria to our clinic where she was enrolled in the Shriners’ program.

After several X-rays and other tests, the child was given a special pair of shoes made for her with the one heel elevated to accommodate her disability. Over the years she has had several shoes made as she grows. The long range plan is a surgery when she is older to lengthen the leg. In the meantime, this child walks, runs and plays pain free with no hint of an incapacity.

If you ask Maria her favorite part of the Shriners’ visits she will tell you it is the payasos or clowns who are Shriner members that come to the clinics and make balloon animals for the children. Although shy, it does not take much to get a smile from Maria.

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Every Child Should Have Shoes

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 18:40:00 GMT

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Meet Araceli; she is one of the thousands of children in Mexico who have NEVER had shoes. In the winter her little feet are cold and in the summer she scurries across the hot gravel and dirt and trash.

This sweet child wants to go to school. Even though it is uncertain when the schools in Mexico will reopen due to COVID; she and the other children cannot go to school without shoes (a requirement). As one of our donors said “Every child should have shoes…”.

Last year, you provided shoes for 1,032 children. God bless you for caring and knowing that education is the main road out of poverty. Do you see your child or your grandchild or the Christ child in Araceli’s little face?

Twenty dollars ($20) will allow us to provide a pair of new shoes that fit properly when navigating those treacherous paths and to be ready when school opens. Donations can be made online at:

SEND TO PO Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

I have seen your big hearts and I have seen the Holy Spirit work through you. I know that you will not take your own blessings for granted and will do whatever you can to help make a difference. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Please, pray for us and the people we serve, especially the children.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin

Father Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Shriners International, Casa Franciscana and Families of the Franciscan Renewal Center

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 04:26:00 GMT

In 1984 the intrepid and visionary Brother Ivo came to the Casa Franciscana Mission. His heart was moved by the many children he saw with disabilities who had no mobility aids and no resources. These limitations often relegated the little innocents to a future life of begging. With his knack for solving problems, his outstanding organizational skills, his talent for building relationships and his prayers to the Holy Spirit Br. Ivo was able to create a partnership with Shriners International. Overcoming visa and the myriad of governmental requirements, transportation, lodging and other issues, in 1990 the first van of children, with Br. Ivo accompanying them arrived in Phoenix, AZ at Maricopa Medical Center. The Shriners’ physicians from Utah were waiting for them. To this day the program continues providing not only treatment but also custom wheelchairs, braces, special crutches and other devices to give the children mobility and relieve pain. New mobility devices are furnished as they outgrow the old.

In some cases, surgery was able to be performed resulting in normal function. Hundreds, of children received life altering care and are productive and happy. The other vital piece of this ministry is the families and volunteers of the Franciscan Renewal Canter who coordinate the arrival of the mothers and children and bring them into their homes for food, lodging and friendship. Some of the stories follow.

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CFO ACCEPTED AS A MEMBER OF FRY’S COMMUNITY PROGRAM

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 05:23:00 GMT

The children, elderly, homeless, widows, single mothers, hardworking migrant farmers and all of our marginalized brothers and sisters served by the Casa Franciscana Mission count on us for the basic necessities that we offer. We depend on you to care and to help.

However, the Casa Franciscana Outreach board is always looking for other opportunities to support this work without asking you to open your wallets!! So we were excited to learn that the CFO was accepted as a member of the Fry’s Community Program. Here is how it works:

If you shop at Fry’s, please sign up to help the poor at no cost to you. It only takes minutes.

Helping others is the secret sauce to a happy life . Todd Stocker

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Why We Need Recurring Donors

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 03:55:00 GMT

Did you know that the Casa Franciscana Outreach (CFO) has no staff with the exception of a contracted accountant. In order to keep our administrative expenses low, allowing more money for direct services, may we suggest that you consider becoming a recurring donor. This means that your desired amount (for example $15 per month) would automatically be sent to us.

Other advantages are that a recurring donation:

It is easy to become a recurring donor through our website, www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org or email us at casafranciscanaoutreach@gmail.com and we will telephone you to set up your giving. If you have questions, please contact us at the above email.

We appreciate your continued caring heart as you follow Christ ‘s teachings: our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love which shows itself in action. 1 John 3:18.

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Men Chosen by The Holy Spirit?

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 03:35:00 GMT

A heartfelt thank you to Kevin Gralen who, after six years on the CFO Board and five years as president, is leaving us. Kevin brought a special spirituality to the board with his ultimate example of living the Gospel – service to others. In his words: In one of the impoverished areas of the world, the services of the Mission deliver hope and faith that are unexplainable and inspirational. During his tenure, Kevin’s accomplishments are many but perhaps the “jewel in his crown” is the planning and development of the Denise Nagel Youth Center. He, almost single handedly, raised start up and three years operational funds for this needed program. He also modernized our digital capabilities allowing our message to reach more sisters and brothers. His humor energized us and built a strong spirit of camaraderie amongst board members.

Replacing Kevin is Francisco Lopez. Some of you know him from the pilgrimages to Guaymas that he led with George Sabol. Francisco tells us: The genuine exchange of love, gratitude and joy that I’ve experienced while visiting Guaymas has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to follow the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. I knew instantly that I was called to support this Mission.

The Holy Spirit continues to bless the Casa Franciscana Outreach family by sending us two very special people to carry out the Mission’s works. Both Kevin and Francisco would like to thank you for your support toward their vision of improving the lot of the destitute in Guaymas, MX.

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Walk in the Shoes (or Barefeet) of a Migrant Farm Worker

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 03:16:00 GMT

Since the COVID pandemic shut down our dining rooms and many other services, the heroic friars and staff of Casa Franciscana have brought the services directly to the needy. Amongst these are the migrant farmworker families in the camps of the agricultural companies. The migrants usually come from the far southern states of Mexico on buses or trains with only what they can carry. They are grateful if they can find the cost of the transportation to bring their families and stay together. The woman and children, 14 years and older, can also work in the fields.

Up before dawn, the usual meals of rice, beans, potatoes are prepared in pans that may have been left by families before them. The glow of charcoal is seen as tortillas are heated, sometimes on garbage can lids. As soon as dawn breaks, the parents are in the fields and children are left to care for the other children. The workers spend the day shoveling, weeding, moving irrigation lines and picking crops, all backbreaking. No one counts the hours; as long as there is light these stoic people work. Mothers may work with infants tied to their backs but grateful that they are working. Diseases flourish due to the unsanitary conditions and abundance of insects.

Twice a month there is some relief as the Casa Franciscana team brings food boxes, clothing, medicine and blankets (those Sonoran nights are cold). We try to provide a special meal for the children with a treat. Their favorite is elotes preparados, (corn on the cob with lime juice, chili and cheese). The picture that you see is of a boy who has eaten every kernel off that cob!!

With the success of our recent book campaign, we will also begin to bring books to the children and, perhaps, even start a story hour. This God-guided relief is accomplished through you! Without your support there would be nothing to carry to the camps. May you experience the joy that you give.

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Christ’s Cross: The Tree of Life

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 17:26:00 GMT

Dear sisters and brothers,

Easter is the celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead after being crucified on a tree. Yes, the cross was made of a tree. From His sacrifice another tree sprouted – the Franciscan Tree of Life (FTOL). Many of you know the missionaries who “pollinated” this tree carrying out Christ’s entreaty:

For I was hungry and you gave me sustenance; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you looked after me; I was in prison and you visited me. Then the righteous will answer, Lord, when did I see you hungry and feed you or thirsty and give you drink? Our Lord answered “Truly I tell you, just as you did to the least of my family you did for me.” Matthew 25:35-40.

Who are these righteous people? They are all those who help us at the Casa Franciscana Mission to deliver daily the life sustaining services described by Matthew. They are you! The FTOL chronicles over 50 years of the meals that you served; the sick that you attended; the thirsty that you relieved; the naked that you clothed; the shelters that you provided; the prisoners that you comforted. I invite you to go to www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org and “visit” the Tree of Life. See what you have grown!

But the work is not done and the Tree requires constant cultivating. Christ continues to call you from His tree, the cross. The pages that follow show the struggle of one family. Envision yourself in their place. Reach out to these struggling sisters and brothers as a way of honoring Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. After all, you were made in His image. I know that you will do no less than to heed His words and to care for the least of His family. Have a blessed Easter.

Peace and all good.

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Caring through Books

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:52:00 GMT

My dear Sisters and Brothers,

Nothing lights up the world like the smile of a child. With our children’s dining room and the youth center closed due to the pandemic we do not see many smiles. Children wander aimlessly with sickness and poverty all around them. As we have moved our ministries into the barrios, migrant farms and the place where the infamous La Bestia train stops (Yes, the scenes in the popular novel, American Dirt, are real), I see sadness everywhere. We do our best to provide relief but amongst all the turmoil in the world, including the United States, sometimes it becomes overwhelming.

The other day, my heart was lifted when I witnessed a woman giving a child a book as he waited to climb back onto La Bestia. The pure joy of that little boy brought tears to my eyes. Such a simple act but so meaningful to both the receiver and the giver! My next thought was “Why couldn’t we bring books to the children when we visit the neighborhoods and the camps”? I thought of the many true stories that became novels of how books impacted people’s lives. If nothing else, it tells them someone cares.

So, I am asking you to care as we begin our initiative to carry children’s books with us along with the food, water, medicine and clothes when we trek to where God is calling us to help. I am asking for $15 or anything that you can afford. Please consider making it a recurring donation to help us carry on our efforts. Checks can be mailed to: Casa Franciscana Mission, P.O. Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267 or through this website.

To paraphrase Stephen King: Books are a uniquely portable form of happiness. Help us spread some happiness along with God’s love through you.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Prayer before Opening Gifts

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 04:10:00 GMT

Back by request or start a new tradition: Prayer of Thanks before Opening Gifts

Lord, let us hold this time in our hearts, the wrong sizes, the snippets of ribbon and most important, each other. Help us to remember the immense love you have for every person in this room and those that cannot be with us.

With every gift we open, no matter how perfect or imperfect, let us remember the many ways you gift us each day. May these gifts we share also remind us of the greatest gift of love you have given to us, your Son Jesus Christ, our Savior.

We also remember those in need at the Casa Franciscana Mission and around the world. Guide us to share our prayers and blessings with them. Amen.

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Does Our Lady Of Guadalupe Live in Guaymas?

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 22:11:00 GMT

In 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego, an indigenous Mexican farmer. During that first sacred encounter and in several more apparitions over the next few days, Mary spoke to Juan Diego in his native Aztec language and asked him to petition the bishop to build a church. She instructed him to bring roses to the bishop, and when he opened his cloak to drop the flowers before the bishop’s feet, all those present were stunned to see Our Lady’s image painted on his cloak. This painting is known as our Lady of Guadalupe with her feast day celebrated on December 12 ^th .

A replica of that image now adorns a wall on the back of one of the Casa Franciscana Mission’s old buildings. It is located in the narrow street that is used frequently by children and teenagers. If you spent some time in this calle (street), you could not help but smile!! Children are yelling, running, fighting, throwing things. Suddenly, as they come to the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, they stop, make the sign of the cross and sometimes even proceed with arms around each other! There seems to be a special benevolence in this little place in the midst of poverty and trash .

We hope that, in this time of aloneness, unemployment and all manners of suffering you have a special little place where you can go to find a moment of peace and warmth. Use this picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe to help prepare for Christmas. Pray to her for grace to weather these perplexing times. Pray to her for the children of the poor who run through this narrow street in Guaymas.

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The Nativity during COVID

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:28:00 GMT

Dear sisters and brothers,

When I sat down to write about this difficult year, I asked the Holy Spirit for guidance. He immediately led me to the Nativity scene in Bethlehem where Joseph and Mary were alone to experience the birth of their Son. The young couple were like many in the 2020 pandemic, separated from families and friends for memorable events. Joseph and Mary also had to rely on the kindness of an innkeeper who was their last resort and provided a stable for shelter. In a way, the Casa Franciscana Mission is that stable for thousands seeking some form of shelter. The face of Jesus is on everyone who comes to us – the elderly, the sick, the children, the hungry, the homeless, the jobless, the migrant, the outcasts.

The Mission looked forward to 2020 with the celebration of the first birthday of the Denise Nagel Youth Center. The women’s co-op had a record number of widows and single mothers participating and our dining room pantry was well stocked. How quickly things changed! All of our Mission services were shut down by COVID-19. Some of our own staff came down with the virus or lost loved ones. Increasing numbers became unemployed and sick. More than ever, we were that stable for those in need. The pages that follow show how God, like the star that led the magi, guided us to providing services in a different way.

These ways became more expensive as personal protective equipment was needed; bulk food could not be prepared and disposable supplies were required. Thanks to you, our magi, with your gifts we were able to relieve much suffering. This is especially meaningful since we know that some of you also lost jobs and suffered from the brutal virus. We prayed for you and felt the brotherhood as we struggled together. From your sisters and brothers in Guaymas, I send Christmas love and blessings and the hope of a brighter 2021. Let us not forget what we learned from 2020.

Fr. Martin, OFM

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Thankful Thanksgiving

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 01:46:00 GMT

When I have food,

help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,

help me to remember the jobless ;
When I have a home,

help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,

help me to remember those who suffer,

And in remembering,

help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,

those who cry out for what we take for granted. Amen.

-Samuel F. Pugh

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Prayer for our Government Leaders

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 21:09:00 GMT

I pray for the leaders of our government to find Your peace and direction, and for these men and women to act and direct according to Your Word. A house divided against itself cannot stand, therefore, I pray for them to be unified in doing the right thing for the sake of the nation.

In the Name of Jesus, may You and Your love be manifested in the hearts of all those who are in authority in any way.

Abstracted from a prayer by Kenneth Copeland

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Thank You, Fr. Tommy King

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 21:27:00 GMT

In our recent transitus letter, the Casa Franciscana Mission bid vaya con Dios (go with God) to Father Tommy King who served in Guaymas for four years.

He started his time there by conducting a needs survey of over 400 households in the barrios around the Mission. Over and over he heard about the need for a youth center for ages 12 to 18. The school dropout rate was high; drugs were a constant battle and idleness was common. As a result, private funds were raised to open the Denise Nagel Youth Center in the impoverished neighborhood of Fatima. It was an instant success; filled with enthusiastic teenagers every day. The youth learned computer skills, received help with homework, participated in support groups which included anti-drug messages, and more.

Staff development was also important to Fr. T. He initiated training to help the staff grow professionally, personally and spiritually. All the programs thrived under his leadership (and, of course, help from you and the Holy Spirit).

Then COVID-19 hit forcing the closedown of the dining rooms, the medical/dental clinic, the youth center, the migrant shelter and the monthly food box distribution. Fr. Tommy and his staff devised ways to prepare “to go” boxes that they distributed daily outside the main dining room. He managed to procure personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff and to enforce what in Mexico is called ‘healthy distancing amongst the crowd.’ The local police monitored the compliance daily! With teamwork, a new system for distributing the monthly food boxes was developed.

At the same time, he provided love and comfort as people lost family members to the pandemic. Fr. Tommy has been described as the perfect combination of spirituality and humor – both are valuable assets in a crisis.

The Board of Directors of the CFO, the staff at the Mission and many of our donors thank Fr. Tommy for his service and dedication, following in the footstep of St. Francis. We wish him God’s speed as he continues his journey in Honduras. We love you, Fr. T!!

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Shop for the Poor

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 04:36:00 GMT

NO, we are not asking for money!! Amazon.com has a special program to contribute to charities chosen by its customers. Casa Franciscana Outreach is one of those eligible charities. The program is AmazonSmile and a simple way to support the Casa Franciscana Mission. You shop; Amazon gives.

You can use your existing Amazon account on AmazonSmile . The prices, selection and shopping experience are the same. Do your normal shopping. There is no cost to you!!

If you previously selected another charity , you can change at any time. Sign in to smile.amazon.com; select “Change your Charity” in “Your Account” then click on “Support” and choose “Casa Franciscana Outreach”.

Please remember the poor and consider signing up for this program. Also, every time you shop at smile.amazon.com, give thanks for your blessings and say a prayer for the Casa Franciscana Mission. God will surely SMILE on you when you do.

Thank you

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The COVID Forgotten Ones

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 14:32:00 GMT

As we celebrate the transitus of St. Francis October 3 ^rd , both Fr. Tommy and I are, in a way going through a transitus, change from one life to another. While at the Casa Franciscana in Guaymas, Tommy developed a calling for the people of Honduras. He listened to their stories and saw the circumstances of the migrants from that country seeking shelter at our Mission. Consequently, I returned, at least temporarily, to Guaymas easing his departure.

Among my new duties is dealing with the effects of COVID-19. Venturing into our already marginalized neighborhoods, there were horrific scenes of our poor elderly left in filth and neglect – forgotten ones . One woman was alone, dying of cancer. We provided a small AC unit, medicine and food. We found another elderly man living in an unsustainable situation of abandonment. Ignoring our own safety, we cleaned him; changed his bed; brought medicine, nutrional food, mobility devices and spiritual care. Then we found Esperanza who cried when we came; we were the only ones who had visted her.

My heart is heavy from seeing the results of such poverty. So I am reaching out to you to help us to help the forgotten ones. They deserve some comfort in their final years. In addition to their direct needs, we need to protect our staff. This requires personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, gowns, disposable bags, cleaning supplies – all are at a premium.

I am asking you for twenty-five dollars ($25) to allow us to continue.

Donations can be made online: www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org

send to PO Box 15576,Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Let us show these lonely aged that God has not forgotten them. Surely, God will not forget you at the time of your transitus for doing whatever you can to help them. As I pray for the poor, I also pray in thanksgiving for you. Please, pray for the people we serve and for the protection of our staff in this ministry.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

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Shoe Campaign Celebrates a 75th Birthday

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:25:00 GMT

Nancy Brown is the mother of six and the grandmother of 15. She recently celebrated her 75 ^th birthday and in true Nancy style, the only gift she wanted was for her family to contribute to the annual Casa Franciscana shoe campaign. The campaign is to help children in Guaymas have shoes to attend school and even to walk on the rubble filled roads where many live.

After raising her own children, she knows how quickly they outgrow and outwear shoes!! She also knows that when it comes to a choice of food or shoes for families, there is no choice. Children served by the Casa Franciscan Mission often share shoes to take turns going to school. Nancy is passionate about this campaign as a way of promoting education – the road out of poverty.

The Brown family donated 76 pairs of shoes , one for each of Nancy’s 75 blessed years and an extra pair for luck . The family also created a memory book for her and her grandson wrote: “I strive to be better and I look to you (Nancy) as a role model for being kind, caring, loving, and many more things.”

Let us all try to be role models with the people that we interact, especially the children. Honor a loved one with a donation to the shoe campaign.

May the good Lord continue to bless the Brown family and this remarkable woman. Also, thank you to all who contributed to the annual shoe campaign.

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Shoes for Coronavirus and School

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 13:31:00 GMT

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Last year, you provided shoes, a requirement for school attendance in Mexico, for 635 children. God bless you for caring and knowing that education is the main road out of poverty!!

As in the United States, it is uncertain when the children in Guaymas will return to school this year. With the corona virus, life is tougher than ever in the barrios and those same children have outgrown or outworn last year’s shoes.

Here is a picture of Victoria wearing oversized sandals which she shares with her mother. To walk barefoot on the rocky, glass and trash covered road is painful and dangerous. Her precious smile is for the hope of receiving shoes of her own. Do you see your child or your grandchild or the Christ child in her little face?

Twenty dollars ($20) will allow us to provide a voucher for a pair of new shoes that fit properly when navigating those treacherous paths and to be ready when school opens. Donations can be made clicking:

www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org

send to PO Box 15576, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

Peace and all good,

Father Tommy King, OFM

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Father’s Day Prayer and Thoughts

Sat, 20 Jun 2020 13:00:00 GMT

(Republished from 05/2018)

Dear brothers and sisters,

As Father’s Day approaches and I walk the barrios of Guaymas, I’m reminded of a prayer with an origin attributed to the Methodist Church in Africa:

Loving and Merciful God, our thoughts and prayers today are turned toward our fathers.

For those whose fathers have increased the joy in their families’ lives, we give You thanks.

For those good men who sustain and support us in our living, who love us no matter what, we give You thanks.

For those whose fathers have been a source of hurt and pain, may their wounds be healed and may they find in You, in us, in others, the nurturing love that is needed for their well-being. We also pray that these fathers find forgiveness.
For those fathers who are separated from their children, give them the insight and perseverance to parent in whatever ways are open to them. Give them the courage to make the decisions that allow their children to thrive.

For those fathers whose relationships with their children have been difficult or disappointing, we pray. We pray, too, for those fathers who have lost a child. We turn to You, most holy God, for consolation where consolation seems impossible.

For single fathers who struggle to be both parents to their children, may they find the strength and wisdom for their task.

For those who have recently lost or who are facing the imminent loss of their fathers, may they find comfort in the love that their fathers have given them.

In Guaymas, I witness every type of a father mentioned in this beautiful prayer. There are those surrounded by love and work hard to eke out a living for their families; those who despaired and turned to drugs. Sometimes it is hard not to be judgmental, then I think of a very wise seven year old boy in Guatemala who told me that “the love of our heavenly Father is greater than the love of all the fathers of the word put together.” That is what is important. On this Father’s Day, I send the blessings of God, Our Father, and I ask that you join us in praying for those in need to find their way. Honor your father by supporting the Casa Franciscana programs that assist fathers and families in crisis.

Peace and all good,

Fr. Tommy

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Our Role in Injustice

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 22:03:00 GMT

FROM THE FRANCISCAN FRIARS

Province of Saint Barbara ◊ Office of the Provincial Minister

An Open Letter to My White Brothers and Sisters who are Roman Catholics

Dear Sisters and Brothers

May the Lord give you peace.

I am writing this open letter as a fellow Roman Catholic since I am assuming that because of our faith tradition we hold certain truths in common, that we are all deeply loved unconditionally by God, that we all have a complete dignity that recognizes we are made in the image and likeness of God, that all of us are truly brothers and sisters to each other. We seek the common good. This letter while addressed to those of my faith tradition, is also offered to believers of other traditions and to nonbelievers in the hope that we may all be in dialogue.

These past few days in our country have been simply incredible. The continuing economic free fall with over 40 million unemployed, the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the horrendous death of so many and the latest incidents of systemic racism are on everyone’s mind. We know that both in the economy and in the reality of the pandemic African-Americans, Native people and other of color are disproportionaly affected. This is clear. We who are white simply do not experience this systemic racism directly nor do we experience our cultural reality the same way as our brothers and sisters of color.

In our country there is a very long history of violence and oppression against all people of color, especially African –Americans that is a direct result of slavery. The killing of George Floyd is simply the latest act of violence against African-Americans in a very long history. Why have we as a country not made much progress in eradicating the evil of racism? Why is it systemic?

And this is where I begin to have difficulty with this letter because I know there is a part of me that does not want to offend or to make others feel uncomfortable, especially other people who are white like me. The truth is that racism continues in our country because it benefits those of us who are white. Period. Full stop. I think we owe it to George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and all those who have died by violence to admit this truth. As a white man I do not like this uncomfortable feeling when I admit this, but reality is that until I am able to sit with uncomfortableness, live with it, and ask God to help change my heart, all will continue as it has in the past. To admit white privilege and realize that I continue to benefit from it is a hard pill to swallow. But if I truly wish to live my faith fully, I need to embrace justice completely, realizing that God’s grace will help me. I need to pray for His help realizing that racism is a spiritual wound. We white people need to be outraged at racism in our culture and only when enough of us are truly outraged will systemic change take place.

How did I end up in the place I am? I am not an autonomous individual floating in space. I grew up in a particular place, at a particular time in a particular family. I was 13 years old, living in Northcentral Florida, when Martin Luther King was assassinated. At that time my school was still segregated. My mother did not lie awake at night fearing I would be killed by the police when I was a teenager out at night with my friends. I lived in a completely white world and knew absolutely no African -Americans and no other person of color. I would like to think that my family was “good”. I never got a lesson in whiteness, I just picked it up as the way things are and was socialized into a certain view of the world that I would later understand as racist, very racist. All of us have been scared by the social sin around us.

If all that I have written above is true, and I do believe it to be true, then what should I do? What concrete actions may I do? Is there something that I could offer to my Catholic sisters and brothers in ways of suggestions? I pledge myself to do the following. I would like to suggest that you and the communities or families you live in develop your own, realizing that what we are attempting might be considered little but we must begin somewhere.

Fr. Bryan Massingale in the conclusion of his book Racial Justice and the Catholic Church writes the following: “Social life is made by human beings. The society we live in is the outcome of human choices and decisions. This means that human beings can change things.”

Let us continue to walk forward together as we struggle for total racial equality. I am under no illusion that this journey will be easy, but we simply must begin once again, building on the struggle of others before us.

Lastly and most importantly I need to pray. We all need to pray. A couple of weeks ago we celebrated Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit. Let us all pray that the Spirit will guide us forward and give us the courage to do the right thing. Let us pray for the intercession of the Saints and the Blessed Mother. The US Catholic Bishops recently offered a prayer to overcome racism.

PRAYER TO OVERCOME RACISM

Mary, friend and mother to all, through your Son, God has found a way to unite himself to every being, called to be one people,

Sisters and brothers to each other.

We ask for your help in obtaining from your Son, the grace we need to overcome the evil of racism and to build a just society

We ask your help in following your Son, so that prejudice and animosity will no longer infect our minds or hearts but will be replaced with a love that respects the dignity of each person.

Mother of the Church, the Spirit of your Son Jesus warms our hearts; pray for us. Amen.

I am convinced that if we give ourselves more completely to the Lord he will come to our aid and help us do what we do not have the strength to do. We are all in this together.

Sincerely and fraternally yours,

Fr. David Gaa, OFM

Minister Provincial of the Province of St. Barbara

President of the Trustees of the Ministers of the Province

June 8, 2020

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A Photographer for the Wealthy and the Poor

Wed, 27 May 2020 22:02:00 GMT

Robert Keith is a well-known photographer commissioned to take pictures of Sandra Day O’Connor, Larry Fitzgerald, Jennifer Lopez and others that you would recognize. We are so blessed that for 12 years, Robert chose to serve God and the poor by contributing his creative talents as a member of the CFO board. His pictures bring Guaymas to life for those who cannot be there. The following are samples of his ability to capture life in the barrios.

Robert tirelessly walked the hot dusty roads; greeting people with his captivating smile and bringing lollipops for the children. He was like the pied piper. In this environment people do not have photos of their children and other family members. They loved to see their images in his camera!

It is with sadness that we announce Robert Keith’s resignation from the board but express gratitude for all that he has done. “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.” Proverbs 19:17. Mil gracias, hermano.

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Coronavirus Tax Deduction

Sun, 10 May 2020 15:16:00 GMT

Dear Friends,

The COVID-19 virus hits the poor especially hard. At the Guaymas Mission, we are seeing increasing numbers of families in the daily food line. Our goal is to keep our neighbors at home by providing beans and rice for them to cook in our food bag deliveries. Our daily guests at the Meson de Jesus receive “to go” lunches, typically cans of sardines and crackers. As the unemployment rises, so do our unbudgeted expenses resulting from the virus.

One ray of hope to all charities is the recently passed congressional stimulus package that gives non-itemizers up to a $300 above-the-line charitable income tax deduction for donations made only in 2020. So, for those who take the standard deduction, if you give $300 to charity, you will get the $300 tax break in addition to the standard deduction. Of course, ask your tax advisors for details regarding this program and your eligibility.

To help our struggling brothers and sisters at the Mission and to make it easy for you, please consider becoming a recurring monthly donor. A monthly donation of $10, $20 or $25 would be a blessing; a $50 per month would bring you to the $300 2020 deduction before the end of the year.

If you are willing, it is easy to start this on our website, click the donation button below or email us at casafranciscanaoutreach@gmail.com and we will telephone you to set up your giving.
Peace and all good,

Kevin Gralen

CFO Board President

“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.”
― John Holmes.

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Coronavirus: Desperate in Guaymas

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 02:55:00 GMT

The CFO board was scheduled to be in Guaymas this week but, instead, we were just on a Zoom call with Fr. Tommy. The COVID-19 situation is becoming desperate. As we experienced after the typhoon in 2015, the Casa Franciscana Mission is the hub for food and medicines. However, for the protection of the people we serve and our staff, the facilities are closed. We are distributing “to go” food once a day from our main dining room with a small team of employees in protective gear. The meal is made up primarily of canned sardines, crackers and a bottle of water or juice.

Most maquiladoras (factories) are shut down. Large numbers of people are unemployed and joining our food lines. Tomorrow is the day for the monthly dispensas which are the food boxes normally distributed to the elderly and disabled. However, those who usually receive the boxes are asked to come or send someone to the main dining room. Some will most likely send children since schools are closed. Medicines will be distributed in a separate building. The Mission had enough beans and staples to prepare 70 extra boxes but many more people are expected.

The police patrols are enforcing shut downs and “healthy distancing”. The Mission is trying to comply by using two streets and an alley for lines with enough space in between. People start lining up at 6:30 a.m. The plan tomorrow, is to begin handing out “tickets” and asking the people to come back when the dining room opens and they will be guaranteed food. After the tickets are gone they will sadly tell people to leave. Not sure how that will work or where these people will go. It breaks our hearts.

In addition to the food crisis, the CFO board, has committed to paying all Mission staff whether working or not at least through June. Some of these employees are the only ones working in multi-generational families.

We know that you are being asked for donations from many organizations. We also know that when the stay at home order is lifted the need in our neighborhoods will be more than before the crisis. Please do whatever you are able to provide comfort and hope in this catastrophic time and pray for us as we pray for you. We are in this together.

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Casa Franciscana Outreach

Where Growth Begins

The Story Does Not End Here, Daily Resurrection in Our Midst

A Living Letter Across Borders

The Story Does Not End Here,

Daily Resurrection In Our Midst

Food Distribution

Local and Outreach

From Ashes To Partnership

﻿ Faith Becomes Action

﻿ Community Moments

﻿

Ministries of Connection

A Living Letter Across Borders

﻿

“Your Easter gift helps carry our living letter across borders — providing food, medical care, and dignity to families in Guaymas.”

The Mission’s Christmas Story: Seeing God Among His People

The Birth of Jesus Christ Born Again in Guaymas, Mexico

“Every face tells a story of grace — of families who find hope in the simplest gifts.”

IN THIS NEWSLETTER

A Year in Review

As you turn these pages, let the faces of the people speak to you. Each face holds a piece of the Mission’s journey - the courage to keep going, the faith to believe in tomorrow, and the love that continues to grow quietly in the heart of Guaymas.

From its humble beginnings, the Casa Franciscana Mission has grown into a lifeline for hundreds of families, elders, and the homeless across Guaymas. What started as a small act of service now reaches into every corner of the community.

﻿ As its reach expands, the Mission continues the same story of Christmas—from food boxes to home gardens and shoes for children, medicine and computer programs for education —remains a simple, living echo of the Nativity—filled with hope and light.

When Jerry passed away, the news spread quietly through the neighborhoods of Guaymas. For days, people stopped by the old center—lighting candles, leaving flowers, and remembering the man who had fed not only their hunger, but their hope.

His legacy endures in the hearts of the children he served—now grown, many with families of their own, still remembering the man who showed them they mattered.

Club Jerry remains a living memory of one traveler who turned a stopover into a lifetime of service—and whose heart continues to feed the soul of Guaymas.

Transitus Celebration of St. Francis of Assisi

On October 3rd and 4th, the Mission commemorates the Transitus of St. Francis.

At dusk, candles are lit — a quiet beginning to the Transitus with prayer and reflection.

The next day, the procession begins in the town square, winding through the streets toward the Mission, ending with a celebration of Mass.

Click it or hit www.casafraniscanaoutreach.org

For more specific information on designating CFO for living gifts, wills, or trusts, and learn about our matching gifts programs, email:

donorinfo@theoutreach.org

The Transitus of St. Francis

Seeds of Health & Hope - Community Garden Letter

Growing Food - Growing Tradition - Growing A Community

Señora Mercedes was one of the first of the twelve recipients to receive the tools to start their home gardens.

Señora Mercedes

﻿

What struck us most wasn’t just the abundance of food — it was the abundance of spirit. Señora Mercedes didn’t recover — she transformed.

What began as survival has become generosity. What was once dependence is now dignity.

Will you help us grow this life-changing project? Your contribution can equip a family with the essential tools they need to begin, starting with water tanks.

A donation of $850 can launch a new chapter of self-sufficiency for one family. You can also scan the QR code to choose a donation or a monthly recurring amount that fits your budget.

“Together we can plant seeds of change – one Home Garden at a time in Guaymas, Mexico.”

— Fr. Martín Ibarra, OFM

Donations can be made at www.casafranciscanaoutreach.org or via our QR code.

Bringing Hope To Children's Futures Through Shoes for School

Casa Franciscana Outreach - An Easter Message from Father Martín

EASTER 2025 | VOLUME 55

Join us for the Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi at our upcoming pilgrimage from October 2 to 5, 2025. This journey will enrich your spiritual growth, renew and deepen your relationship with God, and allow you to witness Christ at work as you travel to the Franciscan Mission in Guaymas, Mexico.

Warm Greetings From Fr. Martin Ibarra, OFM

WARM GREETINGS FROM FR. MARTIN IBARRA, OFM

The First Nativity Scene

The Miracle

Celebrating Las Posadas

New Website: CasaFranciscanaOutreach.org

2024 Milestones

Ways To Donate

Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi

Home Gardens Can Bring a Community Together

Shoes Make a BIG Difference every year in Guaymas

Ask These Children: Are We Making a Difference?

What on Earth Are You Doing for Earth Day

The Resurrection Door

Save Taxes Through Donations From Your IRA

A Guiding Light?

Our New United States Citizen

Diabetic Education Program a Reality

Your Impact in 2023

Diabetes Impact on the Poor

Casa Franciscana Featured in International Magazine

Imagine Never Having a Pair of Shoes

Home Gardens Sustain Life in Guaymas

Mothers’ Day Amazon Delivery: Casa Franciscana Style

Earth Day: Are You Sharing Your Bounty

Mission of Hope: A Family’s Story

Love is the Legacy: A Grandmother’s Story

A Mission Transformation

Fry’s

Faith Becomes Action

Community Moments

As its reach expands, the Mission continues the same story of Christmas—from food boxes to home gardens and shoes for children, medicine and computer programs for education —remains a simple, living echo of the Nativity—filled with hope and light.

An Anonymous Grant to Bring Technology to the Poor