Colman Power, OFM

1915 – 1982

Fr. Colman Power, OFM, was born July 9, 1915 in Newark, N.J. After graduating from St. Joseph’s Seraphic Seminary in Callicoon, N.Y., he entered the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1937. He professed temporary vows one year later, made his solemn profession in 1941 and was ordained in 1943.

After two years as a confessor at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New York City, he was assigned to Paterson, where he served as assistant novice master for many years. When the novitiate was moved to Lafayette, N.J., he remained in Paterson as a member of the Province’s Retreat Band. During the 1960s, Fr. Colman served at Christ the King Seminary, Allegany, N.Y., St. Anthony Shrine, Boston, and again at St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

In 1970, he returned to Paterson, where he spent his remaining years, continuing to minister in the confessional and parlor and give directed retreats. His personal piety, love for prayer and willingness to listen attracted countless lay and religious to him during his 38 years as a friar-priest.

He died on March 6, 1982 at St. Joseph Hospital in Paterson. Fr. Colman was 66 years old, a professed friar for 43 years and a priest for 38 years.