Notable events for the month of December include:
One Year Ago
Dec. 3, 2013 — Friars around the Province participated in an international “Franciscan Fast Day” to show solidarity with their immigrant brothers and sisters, and to encourage Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform.
Five Years Ago
Dec. 24, 2009 — The friars of St. Anthony Shrine in Boston celebrated morning prayer in the newly renovated friary chapel. Updates included the introduction of a side chapel for the Blessed Sacrament, improved space for the music ministry, new floors, a new altar and a new statue of Mary.
10 Years Ago
Dec. 20, 2004 — Demolition began on the 31st Street Project. (The building that houses the Provincial Office and St. Francis Friary was dedicated on Sept. 13, 2007.)
Dec. 2004 — After housing friars for 15 years, St. James Friary in Belleair Bluffs, Fla., was sold. (In the account written by Roch Coogan, OFM, he notes that a statue of St. Joseph stood at the front door and a statue of St. Francis stood in the garden. The name of the man who bought the friary was Joseph Francis.)
25 Years Ago
Dec. 5-7, 1989 — St. Joseph’s Parish in West Milford, N.J., held the opening ceremonies for its 225th anniversary celebration.
Dec. 15, 1989 — The new Provincial Office on West 88th Street in New York City was blessed and dedicated. (Today, the Provincial Office is located at 129 West 31st St., just east of St. Francis of Assisi Church.)
— Compiled by Maria Hayes