Antonine Barrett, OFM

1896 – 1976

Fr. Antonine Barrett, OFM, was born on Sept. 12, 1896 in Shirley, Mass. He entered the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1927, professing temporary vows one year later. He made his solemn profession in 1931 and was ordained in 1934.

He spent five years at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New York City, three years as an Army hospital chaplain, six years as guardian of St. Anthony Friary in Butler, N.J., and 25 years in the community at Brookline, Mass. Fr. Antonine conducted retreats for eight years and was known as a compassionate confessor who introduced the spiritual life to many of his penitents. A gentle kindness marked his entire Franciscan life. He was always available to offer help, and was known as a workhorse who accomplished a great deal wherever he was stationed. Despite illness in his final years, he still made himself available as a spiritual director to many.

He died on Dec. 21, 1976 in Brookline, Mass. Fr. Antonine was 80 years old, a professed friar for 48 years and a priest for 42 years.