Guided by the theme “Renewing Our Vision, Embracing Our Future,” 118 representatives of more than 12,000 Franciscan friars around the globe converged at the Order of Friars Minor General Chapter in Rome, where they elected a new Minister General and other leaders, and discussed many issues
Observing 20th Anniversary of Sept. 11
Two decades ago, the nation was rocked by the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York City, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. The sorrow and tragedy of these events hit home for Holy Name Province, when on that seemingly beautiful late summer day in 2001, the community was shocked by the death of one of its own – Mychal Judge, OFM, the FDNY chaplain who rushed to the World Trade Center after hearing that two jumbo jets had struck the twin towers.
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.
Pilgrimages Planned for 2022
Two exciting experiences are being planned for next year that will provide participants with spiritual and educational nourishment – one to the Holy Land, where pilgrims will retrace the footsteps of Jesus during his travels, and the other a journey to historical, sacred Franciscan sites in Italy.
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.
Night of Stars Planned for Sept. 27
After more than a year of cancellations of in-person events and raising funds through virtual platforms, the Province’s Development Office is planning to once again raise the curtain on its popular “Night of Stars” – an annual event featuring refreshments, entertainment by Broadway performers, and the opportunity for networking with friars and Province friends and supporters.
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.
Province Extends Sympathy to Families of Deceased
In recent weeks, relatives of Abraham Joseph, Russel Murray, Dan Nelson, and John O’Connor have died
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.