Of all the friars I’ve ever met—and the over years I’ve known more than a few—Greg Friedman, OFM, will go down as one of the most interesting. He is impossible to categorize because he is, in a word, multilayered. For many years, he worked for this company and, in particular, this magazine as one of its editors. But his role over the years at Franciscan Media evolved rapidly and wildly. He composed articles for web and print, yes, but he also produced documentaries and instructional videos, wrote scripts, and hosted a national radio show for many years. On top of that he ministered at St. Francis Seraph Parish in Over-the-Rhine, a block up from our offices. 

Now this journeyman friar is at the province in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Thankfully, he’s still connected to our humble ministry. Click here to read Father Greg’s article “Sacred Places, Sacred People,” where he writes about Conventual Franciscan Father Charles McCarthy’s outreach to Indigenous Americans. In typical Father Greg fashion, he weaves a powerful story about culture, faith, forgiveness, and living in harmony with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. We hope you like his story. 

Is he a writer? For sure. A producer? Yep. A poet? A public speaker? An educator? A pilgrimage leader? A friar-of-all-trades? Yes, to all. In this season of gratitude, I’m thankful for friars in the world such as Father Greg. I’m thankful that he continues to share his talents with us and our readers. We’re better for it. 

Have a great Thanksgiving!