Prayer is an essential pillar for spiritual growth in the Catholic faith. St. Francis of Assisi viewed prayer as a vital connection to God and a way to align one’s heart with God’s will. St. Francis’ life exemplified a commitment to humility, and he often prayed in nature, seeing all creation as a reflection of God’s presence.
As part of our dedication to St. Francis, The Franciscan School has committed each morning to collective prayer in nature in our courtyard. St. Francis also believed that true prayer leads to action and compassion for others. Morning prayer,” shares TFS Principal Dawn Smith, “provides an opportunity for students to connect with their faith, reflect on the teachings of Jesus, and seek guidance for the day ahead.” All students and faculty attend each morning, and many parents and grandparents also choose to start their day with the school community.
For those unfamiliar with this treasured tradition, the morning typically begins with Father Jim welcoming everyone with a big “Good Morning, TFS!” Principal Smith helps bring quietness to the morning, and a kindergartener or first grader rings a bell to call the group to prayer. (During Lent, the bell is silenced, and a clapper is used.) Each week, a grade is assigned to lead prayer for the week. After the bell is rung, 4-10 students take turns with an introduction, the sign of the cross, a seasonal responsorial psalm, and then the Bible reading. A thought for the day is offered, followed by intercessions, the Lord’s Prayer, and a final prayer. A student council member then leads the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, school/athletics announcements, and birthdays.
The morning concludes with the Prayer Before the Cross, written by St. Francis of Assisi. Father Jim shares this significance: "The great thing is that most friars do not use this prayer enough, and many might not be able to pray this prayer from memory the way our kindergarteners can!”
This beautiful, respectful start to the day allows students, faculty, and others participating to be centered on what is most important. Ms. Jamie Kirchhoff, a longtime TFS teacher, shares, “You leave prayer feeling ready for any challenges the day can bring and feel the warmth of our Franciscan community.”
Similarly, Principal Smith appreciates the tone that morning prayer sets for the students. “Prayer can be a grounding activity, helping students and staff transition from the outside world into a calm, focused mindset for learning. It sets a peaceful tone for the day, promoting an environment conducive to both spiritual and academic growth.”
Father Jim appreciates that each student gets an opportunity to speak in front of the entire school and lead their peers and teachers in prayer and worship. “Because all grades throughout the year lead morning prayer, we demonstrate to them the importance of everyone being able to lead prayer, not just clerics – a very Franciscan characteristic and a very Franciscan experience,” Father Jim shares. Father Jim also encourages students to pray the Lord’s Prayer with arms extended, something he says is not reserved just for priests.
Before 8th graders graduate, we often send them a survey about their school experience. Many of them share that Morning Prayer is one of their favorite parts of our school. We are grateful for the opportunity for this beloved tradition to remain after 25 years. It truly is extraordinary how each day begins at TFS!