Deaths in Franciscan Communities

HNP Communications Franciscan World

Friars in the Province are mourning the recent passing of three friars and two Franciscan sisters.

Two members of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany N.Y., have died. Sr. Anne Peter Motto, OSF, died on March 9 at the age of 87, and Sr. Patricia Ann Perry, OSF, died on April 1. She was 82 years old. Sr. Anne Peter taught in parish grammar schools for nearly two decades in New York, New Jersey, Virginia and Florida before spending 15 years in service at the St. Elizabeth Motherhouse. Sr. Patricia Ann taught in elementary schools in New York, Massachusetts and Florida before working in hospital ministry. She later served as founding administrator of “Sr. Pat’s Home,” a proprietary home for the elderly in Olean, N.Y.

Br. Réal Bélanger, OFM, a member of Canada’s Holy Spirit Province, died on April 16 in Montreal. He was 88 years old. A professed friar for 60 years, he served at three friaries during the course of his ministry.

Fr. Capistran Lawrence Polgar, OFM, a member of Immaculate Conception Province, based in New York City, died on April 26. He was 78 years old. Fr. Capistran had been assigned to pastoral ministry at parishes in New Jersey and later served as retreat master in Michigan.

Fr. Cyprian Berens, OFM, a member of St. John the Baptist Province, died on May 13 at age 95. In his more than 75 years as a Franciscan friar, he served in pastoral ministry at several parishes, held positions at the General Curia in Rome, and worked with students in initial formation.

Editor’s note: Each month, HNP Today publishes news of the deaths of Franciscan brothers, priests and sisters. Information should be emailed to the HNP Communications Office. Announcements about deaths in the United States can also be found on the USFranciscans website.

 – Compiled by Jocelyn Thomas

Related