Greetings!  My name is Jonathan Jones.  I am a married Roman Catholic, a Secular Franciscan, and a Permanent Deacon.  I am writing this blog, because as St. Francis of Assisi is believed to have tell his followers, “preach often, and if necessary, use words.”  But as Francis preached from his own experiences of a loving God, I hope to share my own spiritual experiences with you.  I am also a child of Vatican II; I grew up during the Council, was educated by nuns and priests influenced by the Council, and believe firmly in the teachings that came out of the Second Vatican Council.  So my view of the world and the Catholic Church are colored by that experience, and I wish to share those views.  I have also been influenced by many spiritual fathers and mothers, living and dead.  These include my parents, Franciscans, religious and lay, among them: Francis and Clare of Assisi, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Bonaventure, and Angela of Foligno.  Others include: Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, St. John XXIII,  and Henri Nouwen.

My life experience has been varied, unique and interesting.  I have been a diocesan seminarian, and a Franciscan novice.  I have worked in the mutual fund industry for almost 33 years and have recently been laid off, and looking for work.  I am married to a wonderful woman, whose name is Peg, for a little over 26 years, who has been very loving, and very, very patient with me!

So all this I bring to the table, as I view my Church, my state, my nation, and my world.  I wish to share my views with you, and hope you will share yours with me.  Pax et Bonum!