Pray. Simplify. Repeat.
As Franciscans, the New Year invites us not to make grand promises, but to begin again in simplicity. Franciscan New Year Resolutions are less about self-improvement and more about conversion of heart, returning to the Gospel, choosing peace over pride, and living with joyful restraint in a restless world. By setting intentions rooted in prayer, humility, and love for creation and one another, we allow God to gently realign our lives with what truly matters. These resolutions help us walk the year ahead lighter, freer, and more faithful, trusting that small, daily choices can become a quiet witness to the Gospel.
Living fraternity
» Attend regular fraternity gatherings
» Mutual encouragement and correction
» Accountability
» Shared prayer and mission
» Listen without interrupting
» Apologize sincerely when wrong
» Reconcile where safe and appropriate
» …
Penance
» Pause before reacting; choose gentleness instead
» Let go of the need to be right or to have the last word
» Practice gratitude daily, especially on difficult days
» Commit to a short, faithful daily prayer time
» Pray for someone who is difficult for you
» Visit or call someone who is lonely
» Volunteer quietly, without recognition
» Give generously: time, attention, or resources
» Speak kindly where criticism would be easier
» …
Simplicity and moderation
» Simplicity in clothing, home, and lifestyle
» Restraint in consumption
» Eat simpler meals (on certain days)
» Gratitude for what is sufficient
» Detachment from status, luxury, and excess
» Repair instead of replace
» …
Fasting, abstinence, and self-denial
» Observing Church fasts and abstinence
» Simple meals
» Moderating entertainment, media, and distractions
» Occasional voluntary sacrifices
» …
Peacemaking
» Observing Church fasts and abstinence
» Avoiding gossip and harsh speech
» Refusing revenge
» Promoting reconciliation
» Living gently in family and society
» …
How will you follow St. Francis in 2026?