PATERSON, N.J. — St. Bonaventure Church here celebrated its patronal feast this week, with a program on the “Life of St. Bonaventure in Words and Images” and Masses.
The program, based on the beginning of The Journey Into God: A Forty Day Retreat with Bonaventure, Francis and Clare by Josef Raischl and André Cirino, OFM, was presented by Christopher VanHaight, OFM, on July 14. Mario Gomez, OFM, on summer assignment from Holy Name College, created a presentation of images to go with the text.
Christopher said the parish is celebrating the July 15 feast with two Masses, the evening service followed by a reception of coffee and desserts to honor the patron.
Several other seasonal events at the 130-year-old parish have been held recently.
Approximately 75 people participated in a Corpus Christi procession June 14 at the parish. The group marched around the church after the 5:30 p.m. Spanish Mass, singing a Eucharistic hymn, ending with Benediction inside the church, according to Chris.
On July 3, nearly 400 parishioners gathered to watch the city fireworks on the lawn next to the church. The Independence Day event also included face-painting, balloon animals, music and other activities.
Chris said, “It was particularly gratifying seeing our Spanish-speaking and English-speaking folks mixing together so naturally.”
He added that the Hispanic ministry at the parish continues to expand, including the addition of a Spanish prayer group and plans to attend the Province’s Encuentro in Silver Spring, Md.
The church’s summer Bible study features an eight-part video program, “A Quick Journey Through the Bible.” The Monday night study is an introduction to the Bible including group discussions and opportunities for home study, according to Chris.
Shown in photo are Chris VanHaight, left, Christian Camadella, OFM, second from right, and Mario Gomez, at right.