BOSTON — Seventeen friars from St. Anthony Shrine participated in a fashion show on Oct. 28 to raise money for the Franciscan community’s 16 ministries.
“Kicked the Habit” was the theme for the 7th Annual Friars’ Cocktail Party, which drew more than 150 people, raised $25,000, and captured the attention of the Boston Globe and Boston Herald, which reported on the event.
The fundraiser featured a fashion show theme, with the friars dressing in clothing from local retail stores. It raised both funds and fun, with shrine director David Convertino, OFM, playing the master of ceremonies decked out in a tux with tails, top hat, cane, and black patent leather sneakers.
Jason Veriteck, Boston Red Sox catcher, and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and his wife, Angela, were on hand for the event, which took place at a restaurant near Boston Harbor. Vertick modeled and posed for photos. A photo of Veriteck, David and John Hogan, OFM, appeared in the Boston Globe.
Friars were dressed in a variety of styles: formal, preppy, casual, recreational, ethnic attire and sportswear. Those modeling included Raphael Bonanno, OFM, Thomas Donovan, OFM, Richard Flaherty, OFM, Fergus Healey,OFM, John Hogan, OFM, Gary Maciag, OFM, Hugh Macsherry, OFM, John Maganzini, OFM, Raymond Mann, OFM, Frank McHugh, OFM, Daniel Murray, OFM, Philip O’Shea, OFM, Gene Pistachio,OFM, and Flavian Walsh, OFM. Even the Franciscan habit was modeled by John Jaskowiak, OFM. Many of the outfits can be seen in a three-page photo collage the shrine created.
After the votes were tallied, Fergus and Philip were named the “Top Friar Models of the Year.” Mayor Menino presented a gold crown to Fergus and a scepter to Philip, which delighted the crowd.
Everyone reported having a great time. “I’m a ham at heart,” said Daniel Murray.
“The night was a tremendous success,” said John Maganzini.
Expenses were underwritten by a generous friend of the shrine.
— Diane Monaghan is director of development for the shrine.