A Franciscan Artist

Chapter 5. The manner of working

The friars to whom God has given the grace of working should work in a

spirit of faith and devotion and avoid idleness, which is the enemy of

the soul, without however extinguishing the spirit of prayer and

devotion, to which every temporal consideration must be subordinate.  As

wages for their labour they may accept anything necessary for their

temporal needs, for themselves or their brethren, except money in any

form.  And they should accept it humbly as is expected of those who

serve God and strive after the highest poverty. (Rule of 1223, OFM)

Quite a few years ago, I was discerning if I had a vocation, a calling to become a Franciscan Friar.  I joined the formation program of the Friars of Holy Name Province, OFM.  One of my fellow postulants was David Haack; a very nice fellow, and a very talented artist.  Half way through our novitiate year, I felt that the Holy Spirit was calling me elsewhere, and I left the formation program.  David went on to become a professed Brother in the Order.

Up until recently he was involved in art education at St. Bonaventure University.  He has since retired, but as reported in Holy Name Province's e-newsletter, he found retirement somewhat boring.  So he founded Haack Studiolo, a place where he can create and sell works of art; often with a Franciscan theme.  May his efforts be successful and fulfilling!