Autumn has begun with renewed energy for the US-6 interprovincial postulancy program. In August, six men from around the United States were officially received into the program and, in the weeks since, they have been getting acquainted with the geographic area while completing orientation and beginning their year of education and ministry.
Raymond Mann, 89, Dies in Florida
Raymond Mann, OFM spent his religious life mainly in Massachusetts and Bolivia, and was known for his reflections and retreats.
Vianney Justin, 78, Dies in New Jersey
Vianney Justin, OFM, 78, a professed Franciscan friar for 55 years, died on Aug. 19 at Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. Funeral services are planned for St. Anthony’s Church in Butler, New Jersey, where visitation is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Aug. 24. It will be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial, celebrated by Provincial Minister Kevin Mullen, OFM.
Friar News Briefs
Recent updates include dedication of Butler friary, fire at home of friar’s New Hampshire home, stray bullet finding its way into a friar’s room in Buffalo, free haircuts given at St. Francis Inn, and articles featuring friars in NYC and New Jersey
Buffalo Native John Ullrich Dies at 73
John Ullrich, 73, a professed Franciscan friar for 48 years and a priest for 45, died on Aug. 13 at St. Anthony’s Hospital. He spent his religious life in a variety of roles, mainly pastoral work and positions related to Franciscan formation and education.
Five Men Begin Novitiate Year
A group of men, two from Holy Name Province, was received into the Interprovincial Franciscan Novitiate at Old Mission Santa Barbara, appropriately on the feast of St. Bonaventure.
Peter Fiore Marks 70 Years of Profession
Returning home after serving in the U.S. Army, Peter Fiore, OFM, enrolled at Siena College under the G.I. bill – and although it was nearly 75 years ago, he still recalls the “best decision” he ever made as if it were yesterday because it introduced him to the Franciscan friars and led to a lifetime of education ministry at the Loudonville, New York, campus where it all began.
The Surprise of His Life: Michael Blastic Honored by Peers with ‘Festschrift’ Volume
When he received an email from the provincial minister last October requesting a video conference, Michael Blastic, OFM, anticipated the conversation would be about a new assignment. Instead, he got the surprise of his life.
Transitions
The Provincial Administration on has announce new assignments for friars Michael Blastic, Larry Ford, Daniel Horan, Russel Murray, Michael Reyes
Eight Friars Profess Simple Vows
Eight men from three U.S. provinces professed first vows as Franciscan friars at Old Mission Santa Barbara on July 2. A small gathering in the novitiate chapel at the 18th-century mission included leadership from Holy Name, St. Barbara, and St. John the Baptist provinces, who formally witnessed vows and received the new friars. faculty.
New Video Series Showcases Aging with Grace
A video series featuring the Province’s senior friars is making its debut this summer. Produced by the HNP Sick, Aged and Retired Directorate, the series – called “A Moment with…” – is designed to introduce younger friars to senior friars they may not have met, and to give the subjects of the videos the opportunity to share how they are aging with grace.
St. Francis Inn Brings Aaron Richardson Full Circle as He Prepares for Solemn Profession
A week spent as a volunteer at St. Francis Inn seven years ago helped Aaron Richardson in his decision to pursue a Franciscan vocation, so it was fitting that he returned for his one-year internship in preparation of solemn profession