On-campus events utilize the St. Bonaventure Conference Center, which can be set up for various purposes and is equipped with the latest technological offerings.

St. Bonaventure University

Programs & Conferences


Welcome to the Franciscan Institute's Programs and Conferences website. We look forward to welcoming you to the following events. All presentations and programs are being offered in virtual format only, utilizing Zoom or other web conferencing technology.


Summer 2023 programs


1. Secular Franciscans:
From Gospel to Life: Jesus in the New Testament

June 3, 10 & 17, 2023, noon-1:30 p.m. ET (Zoom only)
With Fr. David B. Couturier, O.F.M. Cap.

    This mini-course over three Saturdays will provide Secular Franciscans with a faithful and contemporary view of Jesus, as He is presented in the Letters of Paul and the Synoptic Gospels.

    We will present Jesus in His Jewish historical context, providing a fresh look at the stories we know so well. In understanding how Jesus spoke in Jewish terms, we will be able to more deeply appreciate His words, thoughts and commands. His parables will come alive.

    This course is free of charge.

    Register-Now-Oval
    (Zoom link sent to registrants)


2. Toward a More Virtuous Economy:
Financial Reforms in the Franciscan Tradition

June 12-15, 2023, 9 a.m.-noon ET (Zoom only)
A seminar for Franciscan leaders, mission officers, and treasurers of religions institutions with Dr. Rod Hewlett, professor of economics and Secular Franciscan.

    In this four-day seminar, economist and Secular Franciscan Dr. Rod Hewlett will trace the history of our economic troubles and then identify the Franciscan values that can provide relief. In ordinary language and with practical examples, he will show how a respect for human dignity, fraternity, and solidarity can come together to develop a more relational and virtuous economy that truly serves people.

    All participants are expected to have a copy of Hewlett’s book, "The Virtuous Economy," FIP 2023. The cost of the course is $50 plus purchase of book.

    Register-Now-Oval

    (Zoom link sent to registrants)



3. The New Franciscan Moral Vision:
A Seminar on Franciscan Ethics

June 28-July 1, 2023, 9 a.m.-noon ET (Zoom only)
A Seminar with Dr. Krijn Pansters and Fr. David B. Couturier, O.F.M. Cap., co-editors of "Lesser Ethics: Morality-as-Goodness-in-Relationship" (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2023).

    The year 2023 is the 10th anniversary of the publication "The Franciscan Moral Vision: Responding to God’s Love," Thomas Nairn, ed. (Franciscan Institute Publications, 2013).

    This conference will highlight the importance of that book and track the developments in the Franciscan moral vision in the age of terrorism and pandemics, along with the influence of Pope Francis on Franciscan ethics.

    Using their new volume, "Lesser Ethics: Morality-as-Goodness-in-Relationship," Fr. David Couturier, O.F.M. Cap., and Dr. Krijn Pansters will provide perspective on the challenges and insights of a developing Franciscan moral vision. Participants should purchase a copy of the new book, Lesser Ethics, FIP 2023 at www.franciscanpublications.com. The cost of the course is $40 plus purchase of book.

    Register-Now-Oval
    (Zoom link sent to registrants)


4. The Padua Program

The Padua Program at St. Bonaventure University helps Franciscan institutions and ministries transmit the values of Saints Francis and Clare to new generations of leaders.
The Padua Program logo
Learn from specialists in Franciscan life and spirituality, leadership and management.

The next Padua Program, Cohort V, will begin with an in-person workshop at St. Bonaventure University July 12-15, 2023, followed by nine monthly sessions from September 2023 through May 2024.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER