From: Dora Guerra
Date: 05/12/2000

I think that among the important things to keep in mind with respect to the sweep of history, is that institutions, governments, and other official bodies with umbrella policies notwithstanding are made up of individual human beings, each with their own personal interpretation of what their mission might be.

In the case of the Franciscan Friars, it is my opinion that most of the members of the Order of St. Francis entered it with altruistic intentions to bring God and man together, save the souls of those they perceived as warranting saving, and in the process save their own souls. They were willing to go wherever the field might take them.

There is enough evidence of instances where the good fathers did object to government or military abuses, but there is also evidence that some individual Franciscans were arrogant, abusive and unyielding - in short human! Does one judge an entire body religious for the shortcomings of a few? I would hope not!

Just my personal opinion.
Dora Guerra
San Antonio, Texas

From: Michael Wilson
Date: 05/12/ 2000

I believe that the perilous situations that the friars placed themselves speak for itself. The great Tejano culture grew from the blending of the Spanish and the Indian cultures. The Friars did their part in helping to get these group to gather at the missions and civil settlements. I think with our 21st century cynicism we have problems understanding the sacrifices these men took to accomplish their missions. I believe that all Texans are indebted to these intrepid fathers.

Mike Wilson
Houston, Texas

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