Dear friend, in Bethlehem, two thousand years ago, a Child was born in a humble grotto, wrapped in the love of Mary and Joseph. Silence surrounded Him, until the heavens burst open with the song of angels: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those whom He loves.” Yet that peace, so radiant and new, was already fragile – threatened almost at once by darkness...
December 23 2025
Mario Conte, OFM Conv.
Christmas in Cell 209
Dear Friend, around the Basilica of St. Anthony the atmosphere is changing. Streets glow with soft lights, shop windows sparkle with garlands, and cafés offer warm drinks and pastries. Yet something deeper stirs – not only in the city’s alleys and squares, but also in many hearts. And here, within the Basilica, we friars feel it too...
November 28 2025
Mario Conte, OFM Conv.
In the Father’s Arms
DEAR friend, this year’s All Souls’ Day carries a deeper sorrow for me, marked by the loss of Guerrino, my faithful friend of more than fifty years...
October 31 2025
Mario Conte, OFM Conv.
Footsteps of Love
Dear Friend,
In just a few days we will celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi – the founder of the Franciscan Order to which I belong. His life of poverty, humility and peace has touched hearts for centuries, and continues to inspire and guide us today. Among those deeply moved by his example was Biagio Conte, known to many as Brother Biagio – a modern-day pilgrim of love and compassion...
September 30 2025
Mario Conte, OFM Conv.
Learning to Fly
Dear Friend, when our parents told us we were going to see a movie about the life of a saint, my brothers and I were anything but excited...
Dear Friend, when I was a child, my two brothers and I often visited our grandmother Rosina who lived in the very heart of Padua. Her home stood just a few steps from the Palazzo della Ragione, the great civic and judicial hall that has stood over the city since the early 1200s...
