Friars in initial formation from the Province went on retreat this month, praying, reflecting and spending quiet time in upstate New York and Virginia.
Novices Antonio Cornier, OFM, Mario Gomez, OFM, Joseph Macaluso, OFM, and Frank Critch, OFM, participated in the May 4 to 9 retreat with novices from other OFM Provinces: Guadalupe, Assumption, Christ the King, John the Baptist, Sacred Heart and St. Barbara. The gathering took place at Stella Maris Retreat and Renewal Center near Syracuse, N.Y., which is owned and operated by the Sisters of St. Francis.
Ann Bremmer, OSF, led the retreat, held in preparation for the first profession of vows that takes place June 5 at St. Bonaventure University, according to Thomas Gallagher, OFM, Holy Name Province’s novitiate director. The photo above shows Sr. Bremmer with the participants.
In addition, 20 friars from Holy Name College spent five days this month at the Roslyn Retreat Center outside Richmond, Va. The retreat was given by Raymond Bucher, OFM, of the St. Barbara Province in California, who focused on the Rule and its implications today.
“We had plenty of time to read, meditate, and take long walks around the grounds of the retreat center,” said participant Paul O’Keeffe, OFM. “It was a welcome change from the fast-paced and sometimes frantic life of studies and formation.”
“I thought that the retreat went well and enjoyed the talks given by Ray,” said Stephen DeWitt, OFM. “He had an excellent understanding of the Rule and offered some valuable ideas on how it can be interpreted and understood today, while still remaining true to its spirit.”