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Memorializing Franciscan Fraternity in Arms

When Friar James McCurry, OFM Conv., first visited the site where a fellow friar lost his life in the closing months of World War II, there were hundreds of veterans present.

D-Day anniversary celebrations have always drawn large numbers of veterans and survivors, locals and visitors, alike. But, as more years pass, the number of witnesses to that historic day has dropped significantly in the more than a dozen trips Fr. James has made to Normandy.

As an example, Friar Ignatius Maternowski, OFM Conv., the fallen friar Fr. James travels to France to honor, would be over 110 years old today.

As it happens, Fr. Ignatius was the only American chaplain to be killed in action on D Day. He was described by Fr. James as “a Catholic priest from America who gave his life for freedom.”

While the two men were not contemporaries, they share common roots in the Franciscan Friars Conventual tradition. Fr. James previously served as Minister Provincial of Our Lady of Angels Province which has custody over St. Francis High School in Athol Springs, New York. Fr. Ignatius was a graduate of that high school.

“He brought Franciscan fraternity into comradery with his fellow soldiers,” Fr. James said. “Of course, he was with them on D-Day – from the night before, to the parachute jump, through whatever came next.”

A Fallen Friar

Fr. Ignatius was the son of Polish immigrants to the United States who greatly supported his call to Franciscan ministry. At the same time, his parents’ background would have instilled in him a sense of duty and service.

“He brought to his chaplaincy the whole ethos and mentality, ‘for God and country,’” Fr. James said, referring to the motto of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps.

On the morning of the infamous assault on German forces that led to the liberation of Western Europe in 1944, thousands of soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy in the North of France. In addition, on that same morning of June 6, more than 13,000 others parachuted behind enemy lines as part of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions.

Fr. Ignatius landed as part of the 82nd Airborne Division in the occupied territory of the hamlet of Guetteville in the town of Picauville.

With so many wounded paratroopers and gliders, Fr. Ignatius worked quickly after landing to negotiate with the Germans to establish an American medical facility protected by the Geneva Convention. He could speak German and ventured towards the enemy, unarmed, with his chaplain’s insignia to meet with a German medic to make the arrangements.

After meeting with the German, Fr. Ignatius was shot in the back as he made his way back to his unit. He was 32 years old.

The Next Chapter

In 2022, Our Lady of the Angels Province, with the help of the Office of Mission Advancement and countless donors, commissioned a stained-glass window depicting Fr. Ignatius in Cauquigny Chapel near to where he died. Three years later, Fr. James joined many others in a candlelight vigil service in that chapel on the eve of the anniversary.

For Fr. James, who championed the cause for sainthood for St. Maximillian Kolbe – another Franciscan Friar Conventual who died during WWII – Fr. Ignatius represents a friar who lived out St. Francis’s call to be a missionary for the world.

“St. Francis had a global outlook, and we have the same impulse to bring the core teachings of Jesus to others,” Fr. James said. “Fr. Ignatius left the comfort of his Franciscan community life to take on this singular apostolate.”

Once the final remaining survivors of D-Day are no longer able to be present, Fr. James wonders what anniversary celebrations will look like.

“Now that the new page has turned, what will the new narrative be?” he said.

He’s hopeful he will be in Normandy for many more anniversary celebrations to find out.

“Their faith lifts me up.”

Fr. Jobe Abbass, OFM Conv., reflects on months of travel with relics

 

Fr. Jobe Abbass, OFM Conv., describes venerating a relic as an opportunity to see more clearly what God has promised.

“Praying before a relic is like putting glasses on to see heaven better,” Fr. Jobe said. “Through this transformative action, we can have a peek into what’s next.”

Throughout the first half of 2025, Fr. Jobe has traveled throughout the Our Lady of the Angels Province with relics of three Polish saints, providing veneration opportunities for their faithful. His final stop, after visiting more than 30 parishes and ministry sites, was at the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City, Maryland on Sunday, June 22.

“We feel through this tour we’ve been able to promote a devotion to Mary by showcasing the lives of these great saints,” Fr. Jobe said. “Everywhere I went, there was always a long line [for veneration] … There’s a great interest in the lives of these saints of the 20th century, who by their devotion to Mary lead us to Christ.”

Promoting Marian Devotion of Universal Saints

Fr. Jobe toured with relics of Sts. Pope John Paul II, Maximillian Kolbe, and Maria Faustina Kowalska for veneration up and down the East Coast. Each famous and transformative for the Church in their own ways, all three saints share Polish heritage and a deep devotion to Mary.

  • Pope John Paul II’s papal motto was “Totus Tuus,” which means totally yours and reflects his consecration to Christ through Mary.
  • Maximillian Kolbe was the founder of the Militia Immaculata (MI), a worldwide evangelization movement that encourages total consecration to the Virgin Mary.
  • Maria Faustina Kowalska, known for her devotion to Divine Mercy, saw Mary as the “Mother of Mercy” in her obedience to God’s will and the way she reflected God’s love.

“Through their witness, we can be inspired,” Fr. Jobe said.

“In our Franciscan charism, we are devoted to Mary,” he said. “It behooves us to share that charism, especially in our parishes and ministry sites throughout the Province.”

The Marian Apostolate of the Friars Minor Conventual

Fr. Jobe serves as the Provincial Delegate of our Canadian Province Delegation of St. Francis of Assisi and Province Assistant for the Marian Apostolate of the Friars Minor Conventual. He has also served as a Province representative on the Militia Immaculata, an organization started by St. Maximilian Kolbe, since 2014.

The Our Lady of the Angels Province Marian Apostolate is dedicated to promoting devotion to the Immaculate Conception and Blessed Virgin Mary. The apostolate offers pilgrimages and tours of Marian shrines and promotes pastoral ministry that highlights Mary’s role in the lives of Catholics. Fr. Jobe will assist in leading a pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. on Friday, October 24.

For him, this ministry is deeply personal.

“The Blessed Mother doesn’t let you down and she draws you ever closer to Christ,” Fr. Jobe said. “I’ve become more sensitive to her relationship with Christ and how the two are inseparable as she stood dying a thousand deaths at the foot of the cross.”

Fr. Jobe was ordained in May – a month the Church traditionally celebrates Mary – four decades ago. He said he also experienced his own calling to the priesthood in the month of May.

When it comes to sharing this devotion with others, Fr. Jobe said, “I find enrichment in the faithful who share this devotion – their faith lifts me up.”

 

 

Liberty Pole Commemoration at the St. Kateri Shrine

On May 17, 2025, the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine in Fonda, NY, a ministry of the Franciscan Friars Conventual of Our Lady of the Angels Province, partnered with Montgomery County History & Archives and County Tourism for a special commemoration. In May 1775, 250 years ago, a conflict took place around the raising of a Liberty Pole on what is now the Shrine grounds, leading to the County’s first bloodshed of what would become the Revolutionary War.

The practice of raising a red “Liberty cap” on the end of a pole or spear as a symbol of freedom began in ancient Rome. Liberty Poles were used as symbols during the Renaissance when there was dissent over who was ruling a nation and were erected during colonial times to express opposition to British rule. The Shrine’s event marked the importance of its grounds during the founding of New York and the United States.

The day-long event at the Shrine also featured educational demonstrations of traditional crafts and a number of booths featuring local history organizations. Approximately 125 people attended, in addition to the various reenactors, volunteers, and staff. The Shrine was excited to hold the inaugural event for the commemoration of the American Revolution in the Mohawk River Valley.

Photo by Mark Perfitti
Photo by Mark Perfitti.

Remembering Pope Francis

By Friar Carlos A. Trovarelli, OFM Conv., Minister General

Speaking from the depths of my heart, I wish to honor Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who became Pope Francis by means of a conclave and the Holy Spirit.

Being his fellow countryman, I met Bishop Bergoglio in Buenos Aires while living in that city between 1996 and 1997. He was then the auxiliary bishop in charge of the deanery where our friary and Provincial Curia is located. Years later, I returned to the same friary in Buenos Aires and lived there in community from 2007 to 2015, this time as Minister Provincial. By then, Bishop Bergoglio had already been made an archbishop and a cardinal. Then came his surprise election as Bishop of Rome in 2013, and, even more surprisingly, he took the name of “Francis.” A few weeks after he was elected, I had to report to Rome, as part of my duty as President of the Federación América Latina Conventuales (FALC). Being from Argentina, I was able to easily gain access to a public audience and take a seat in what is known as the “baciamano,” that is, the front row, where the pope greets people at the end of the audience.

I was looking forward to greeting him. As he was walking to the Chair, he spotted me and gave me a thumbs-up. Then, when the long-awaited moment came for us to greet one another (which was actually a hug), he called me by name!

I had witnessed a transformation in him. When he was governing the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, this “cardinal from the end of the world” did not like being on the front pages of newspapers or being greeted in public squares. He was afraid of being flattered. He preferred to be “what one is before God” and nothing more. This choice of his to be consistent meant he wasn’t always popular. He was austere and reserved. He was close to the “least” among us and “strict” with the powerful. He was a shepherd of his flock, not a “policeman of the masses.” He never refused a request for a meeting. At the end of the Chrism Masses, he would remain in his chair and dedicate himself to greeting each of the priests residing in the Archdiocese, who numbered several hundred. He was not a prince, he was a father.

It is well known that, even as an archbishop or cardinal, he always used the city’s public transportation system. Right before the conclave, he visited our friary in just that way.

He always asked the priests to deliver homilies and public statements as he did: short and incisive. He did not use many words, but his teachings were radical. He did not speak using flowery language, nor was that his nature; his choice to be consistent did not allow him to deceive others or himself. His deeds were not showy, but they were very significant. He was just another city dweller, though entrusted with a ministry in the Church. In fact, he was never a clergyman “clothed” in honors.

I remember when he built one of the most beautiful modern churches in the city near our friary, in a poor, working class neighborhood. He was a cardinal who acted like a father, ready to give his life for his children, not a paternalistic populist. He preferred to be deep in the details rather than shine as if he were on stage; he preferred being consistent with the Gospel rather than being popular. He was not trying to please; he was a father.

Every time I asked to speak on the phone with “the Cardinal of Buenos Aires”, I only had to ask the receptionist of the archbishop’s residence and in just two or three minutes, I would receive a call from “Bergoglio”. Every time I sent Christmas or Easter greetings to the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, a hand-signed thank you would arrive at our friary. He was not trying to be nice; he was considerate.

In 2010, he accepted my invitation to preside over a Mass during the General Assembly of our Order, held in Pilar, Argentina. He arrived “quietly” and presided “quietly”. He did not join us for lunch at the main table, he ate in the kitchen with the cooks. We were all struck by such simplicity, but today I understand that he did not like being sought out just because he was a cardinal, and he would put that title aside to dedicate himself to the least, or to point out the inconsistency or injustice of the “powerful.” BERGOGLIO always visited prisons, celebrated Mass in public squares to attract people living on the streets or those who worked in the streets at night. His message was strong, not gentle and his decisions were firm.

I am witness to the transformation that took place when he was elected pope. Let’s be clear; it was a transformation in his communicative and pastoral style. As Pope, BERGOGLIO was no longer just someone who kindly responded or opened the door—he came to meet you; not just as a shepherd devoted to the

On June 17, 2019, just after I was elected Minister General, our Chapter Assembly had an audience with the pope in a way that went beyond protocol. As he entered the Clementine Hall, Francis left his path to the Chair, and instead, came toward me and embraced me.

Thank God I was able to embrace him and call him “you” informally, as he wished. Pope Francis’ pontificate has been consistent with the evangelical principles and values that always defined him. Yet, he knew how to reinvent and transform himself. I believe he deeply internalized the meaning of Mercy, to the point that his gestures became not only fatherly, but also motherly and brotherly. He no longer spared a smile, much less a strong and significant “sign.” He spoke through signs and decisions with the ability to orient and anticipate the future. Not only did he want to remain consistent with his life choices and evangelical proclamation, he wanted to propose them to the Church and the world. He became a symbol of his own vision of the world and of faith

I will never forget the times I was able to meet with him—his phone calls to respond to me, his handwritten messages, his willingness to see me and listen to me, and the care he took in addressing whatever he could take on.

He was like a father, a mother, and a brother to me. That’s what I felt.

Seeking Hope at Home

For many, the word pilgrimage brings up images of European cathedrals or holy sites abroad.

But Melissa Miscevic Bramble, director at the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine and Historic Site in Fonda, New York, challenges Pilgrims of Hope this 2025 Jubilee Year to envision something different. Maybe, even, a walk in the woods.

“When we spend time in God’s creation, it reminds us that the tribulations we experience are temporary,” Melissa said, noting there are 130 acres of wooded walking trails on the site. “Spending time reconnecting to your place in creation helps remind you of the larger eternal creation you are a part of.”

And what can that reminder lead to? Hope.

Pope Francis designated this liturgical year, beginning December 2024, the Jubilee Year of Hope. Jubilee years occur every 25 years within the Catholic Church and provide a significant opportunity for spiritual renewal.

Pilgrims of Hope, as we are all called to be, are encouraged this year to visit designated pilgrimage sites, as determined by each (arch)diocese.

All Are Welcome

There are several identified pilgrimage sites in The Our Lady of the Angels Province, including the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine. Bramble said several events are planned throughout their summer season to encourage the renewal of hope for visitors, including book discussions, volunteer activities, and prayer services.

The Kateri Shrine has also planned events to celebrate the 800th Anniversary of the Canticle of Creation and the 10-year anniversary of the publishing of Pope Francis’s encyclical, Laudato Si.

Elsewhere in the Province, friars and lay staff are busy planning and hosting events in honor of the Jubilee, including monthly pilgrimage Masses like at Our Lady of Hope Church in Coal Township, PA. The Basilica of St. Stanislaus in Chicopee, MA has created a special Jubilee programming planning committee for the year.

In Ellicott City, MD, The Shrine of St. Anthony is hosting several “Franciscan Pilgrimages of Hope,” complete with extended tours of the shrine and grounds with a particular focus on Franciscan saints and ministries. These pilgrimage experiences include time for Mass, Adoration, Confession, and quiet reflection.

Additionally, The Shrine of St. Anthony has created a 360 Virtual Tour experience for pilgrims to see the beauty and learn the history of this holy site from wherever they are.

Planning a Pilgrimage

Fr. Jude Winkler, OFM Conv., encourages Pilgrims of Hope to change one’s disposition when traveling to a pilgrimage site, even if it’s only down the road from home. He says pilgrims should seek to leave behind everyday concerns and anxieties and open their hearts to listen to the whispering voice of the Spirit.

“When one returns form a pilgrimage during which one visited ‘holy ground,’ one realizes that everywhere is holy, for our entire life is ultimately a pilgrimage journey of faith,” Fr. Jude wrote.

During their visit, pilgrims are encouraged to seek the grace of plenary indulgences for deceased Catholics. This can be done by:

  • Sacramental Confession within 20 days of the indulgent act.
  • Eucharistic Communion on the day of indulgenced act (if possible).
  • Offer prayers for Holy Father’s Intentions.
  • Have a sincere and complete detachment from all sin.

“It is not that God is more present in these holy sites for God can be found everywhere, but rather that the pilgrimage helps one to go outside of what is familiar and comfortable so that one can be more open to the presence of God,” Fr. Jude wrote.

More information about Jubilee sites and events in the Our Lady of the Angels Province can be found at https://www.olaprovince.org/locations/2025-jubilee/.

“Something Bigger Than Themselves”

As Br. Sebastian De Backer prepares to take his final formative steps as a Franciscan Friar Conventual, he sits at the bedside of many of the men who have gone before him in a life of ministry, living out their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

As a trained clinical social worker, Br. Sebastian provides counseling and psychotherapy to aging friars in Enfield, MA.

“This is a ministry of presence,” he said. “It’s a wholistic approach to social work and I love it.”

Br. Sebastian, who will profess his solemn vows on May 2, 2025, knew that having the ability to serve those in need was an important part of his decision to join the Order that traces its roots directly back to St. Francis of Assisi. The Franciscan Friars Conventual have been welcoming men into the Order for 800 years.

According to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate’s most recent annual report, the Franciscan Friars Conventual were among the top nine percent of religious communities who had more than one person profess final vows in the last year. Three friars professed final vows with the Our Lady of the Angels Province in 2024.

Br. Nicholas “Nick” Romeo, OFM Conv., has served as one of the vocations directors for The Our Lady of the Angels Province for the last five years. While based in Washington, D.C., he is often traveling, promoting vocational discernment and meeting with men called to follow in St. Francis’ footsteps with a life of lived fraternity and ministry.

“A lot of the guys I talk to are looking for tradition, stability, and something to trust,” Br. Nick said. “They want to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”

The Formation Process

Br. Sebastian De Backer’s vocational discernment can best be described as gradual. There was no lightning strike or lightbulb moment for him. Over time, it just felt more and more right.

“When I visited the Franciscans, I found a beautiful middle between contemplative and active [orders],” Br. Sebastian said.

While entering the seminary to become a priest had been a consideration when Br. Sebastian was a teenager growing up in Belgium, he ultimately decided then that he wanted to take time to discover more of the world, and himself.

It wasn’t until his mid-thirties, after spending time in school and working as a lay chaplain in the Belgian healthcare system, that he began the formation process to be a friar.

“We’re always invited to grow, especially if that means being vulnerable – something that is not always easy,” he said. “But that’s something I cherish so much about religious life.”

Men considering life as a friar are first invited to seek counsel with Br. Nick or his co-director of vocations Friar Manny Vasconcelos.  Applications to join the Order take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on timing of interviews and psychological screenings.

The three phases of formation include:

  • A one-year Postulancy.
  • A Novitiate, which ends with the profession of simple vows.
  • Post-Novitiate, which will vary depending on whether the friar is seeking the brotherhood or priesthood track.

After at least four years of Post-Novitiate, friars profess their solemn vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Friar Sebastian, along with Friar Edgar Varela, will profess solemn vows in May.

Recruitment Today

Since St. Francis’s time, the number of Orders seeking vocations from young men has significantly grown. Br. Nick said the “competition” is much steeper today, with a lot of options for men to choose from in discerning religious life.

Add to that, a smaller population of young people as compared to decades ago and fewer young men growing up with a strong religious upbringing. All told, there are more choices and fewer men to make them.

Still, there are three men in active application to join the Our Lady of the Angels Province this year. In addition to the two friars, including Br. Sebastian, who will profess solemn vows in May, one solemnly professed seminary student at the Post-Novitiate House in San Antonio, TX will be ordained as a priest in July.

“Ultimately, vocations come from God,” Br. Nick said, as he remains open and willing to work men seeking religious life. If the fit is right, the support is there to welcome them in.

Supporting Vocational Discernment

Praying for vocations to religious life is just one way to help increase interest in a life of brotherhood and service. But Br. Nick likes to encourage Catholics to go another step further.

When speaking at parishes and other events promoting vocations, Br. Nick said he calls on those present to follow three steps.

  • Step 1: Think about a young man who you think would make a good priest or brother.
  • Step 2: Tell him that you think he would make a good priest or friar.
  • Step 3: Tell him the specific qualities and traits you think he possesses that would lead to a successful life in ministry.

“The average number times someone needs to hear an invitation is five,” Br. Nick said he tells people. “You might be number five.”

When it comes to advice to others discerning religious life, Br. Sebastian encourages men to take their time.

“We naturally want to rush things … We want to arrive at this place of homecoming,” he said. “Take time to discover who you are and what charism speaks to you.”

And then, he added, “When you’ve found your place with Christ, jump!”

After all, Br. Sebastian said, over time, what matters more is not so much the reason why you decide to join, but the reason you decide to stay.

To learn more about Vocational discernment and the formation process for Franciscan Friars Conventual, please visit www.franciscanvoice.org.

Behold the Lamb of God

By Br. Tim Blanchard, OFM Conv

When I was about eight, I remember a particular Sunday during catechism class when the teacher introduced us to “saint trading cards.” They were like baseball cards that tell you about the athlete’s history, stats, and significant milestones of their career. I became obsessed. Like any trading card series, these saint cards also included a handful of rare cards that you kept an eye out for when the trading frenzy began. Among these holy men and women who were considered a “rare card” was John the Baptist.

Word eventually reached my ears that the only kid in the class who had a John the Baptist trading card with gold-trimmed edges was my classmate Peter who sat in front of me. Every Sunday for an entire month (which is a long time for an 8-year-old) I would try to convince Peter that it was in his best interest to trade me his rare card. I was denied every time. Running out of attractive offers, I decided to simply wait it out, and hope that my friend would change his mind.

The following Sunday there was an early dismissal after catechism and all the students went outside to enjoy some sunshine. Everyone scurried out of the classroom while I remained behind to clean up my desk. And then I saw it. The rare John the Baptist card with gold-trimmed edges sitting on my friend’s desk. It was beautiful. I looked around the room to see if the coast was clear and…well as the saying goes, I stole from Peter to give to Paul; Paul in this case was me of course.

Now I wasn’t going to just take it without a fair trade, so I left him three Mary Magdalene cards from my collection. I figured it was an even trade, I mean Mary was a beloved follower of Jesus and she was the first to encounter the Risen Christ! Win-win. As I placed my very desirable Mary Magdalene cards on Peter’s desk for a respectable trade and claimed my Baptizer card, I was immediately captured by the lines printed on the back, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1:29). Lamb of God? Who is that? I remember this moment so vividly because it was the first time I started intentionally pondering scripture. Well as divine providence would have it, wasn’t this the gospel proclaimed the following Sunday at my parish, and by a Franciscan priest! After mass, I walked up to our visiting Franciscan and asked him who this Lamb of God was and without hesitation he responded, “He’s the answer.”

Whenever I think about my experience as a religious brother I am always taken back to those words of the Baptizer, “Behold the Lamb of God.” The entirety of my mission as a Franciscan brother can be summed up in this short proclamation; to bear witness to Jesus before others, pointing them in His direction. Much like my encounter with the Franciscan priest, we often don’t come to Christ on our own but by the gentle guidance of those whose faith points the way to “the Answer.” This is why I have come to understand that the term “brother” is not just my title but a verb; to “brother” to others and lead them to lives of holiness.

There have been so many examples of this unique discipleship in my own life. I remember after I professed my final vows, I was sitting with one of my brothers I deeply admire. He was sharing his own experience of the first few years in ministry after his solemn profession and the challenges he faced that ultimately refined him as a minister. After he finished, he looked at me and shared something that completely shifted my view of brotherhood. “The mission of the brother is about being a professional companion for the lost and suffering. Every friar has to discern what that will look like for him, and it comes out in the most beautiful ways when it is aligned with God’s will.”

I’ve carried this wisdom with me at every one of my assignments. I have learned with each new ministry, I must take the path of Christ who “had to become completely like his brothers, to be a compassionate and trustworthy high priest” (Heb 2:17-18). Before calling us into the life of the Transcendent, Jesus first became a brother to all sharing in our suffering and pain. When John spoke these words, “the Lamb of God” I can’t help but imagine the many who were present took that in an ordinary way. Here comes Jesus after that rather stirring proclamation from John and what do people see? An ordinary man. Flesh and bone. But the eyes of faith see Him as he truly is, life for the salvation of the world as the Sacrificial Lamb.

As brothers, our directive is clear, to help people see beyond the ordinary, to see God in the natural world and in each other. In this way, I believe the religious brother consecrates all creation as he works to help others recognize the presence of God in all things. The best way to do that? Invite others to a life of prayer. Prayer is not an act to compel God to breakthrough, rather, it’s about forming an alertness to see the world differently.

As I mentioned above, we don’t come to the Lord on our own. I certainly didn’t. I was blessed with many holy role-models who taught me the importance of prayer and worship. Now, I have that same exciting yet terrifying responsibility of passing on Christ to others and I must discern daily how God is calling me to walk with the lost and suffering. Our order has been blessed with a number of extraordinary brothers who continue the story of salvation with their lives that quietly proclaim, ‘There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! Run to Him!’ I hope my old catechism teacher reads this to see the long and arduous journey she put me on all from a saint trading card.

Reflections on a Life in Religious Brotherhood

Br. Brian Henry Newbigging professed final vows with the Franciscan Friars Conventual in 1974 at the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City, MD. Br. Brian works and lives at the St. Joseph Cupertino Friary above the Shrine today. In honor of Religious Brother’s Day – recognized on May 1 – he shared some of his reflections on a life of service and ministry with the friars.

Today, Br. Brian hand-pours soy candles in the Shrine of St. Anthony for sale to the public. You can order candles at franciscansoycandles.org.

The Impact of a Franciscan Education

A Franciscan Catholic education is more than academics; it is a transformative experience that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.

At Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore, MD, and St. Francis High School in Athol Springs, NY, this holistic approach shines brightly, shaping students into compassionate, intelligent, and well-rounded individuals prepared for life’s challenges.

The Companions of St. Anthony have long supported the education ministry of the Franciscan Friars Conventual, through the funding of scholarships at both schools, helping the friars spread the teachings and values of their founder, St. Francis of Assisi.

“A Franciscan education forever changes a life,” said Fr. Matt Foley, OFM Conv., President of St. Francis High School. “Any school makes you smarter, but the relationships that are formed between brothers in the class room or on the athletic field at a school like St. Francis, reflect the spirit of the friars.”

The story is similar at Curley.

“Archbishop Curley High School uses the theme ‘Where Brotherhood Begins,’” said Fr. Donald Grzymski, the school’s President as well as a Curley graduate. “Brotherhood has been embraced by the students and alumni, who regularly speak of their ‘brothers.’ In a deeper way, a Franciscan education strives to inform, but also to form young men with Catholic-Christian values, to help them have a personal relationship with God, and a readiness to help others as they move beyond themselves. It is the goal for a real transformation in the high school years, for as a boy becomes a young man, he is assisted in growing emotionally, mentally, morally and spiritually.

Faith and Spiritual Growth

At the heart of a Franciscan education is a deep-rooted commitment to faith and spiritual growth. Both Archbishop Curley and St. Francis emphasize the values of St. Francis of Assisi, fostering a community where students learn to embody humility, service, and love for all creation.

Daily prayers, retreats, and service projects offer students opportunities to deepen their faith and build a moral compass grounded in Catholic tradition. An example of spiritual growth through a Franciscan education can be seen in this experience shared by Patrick Coughlin, a junior student at St. Francis, who is a recipient of a scholarship funded by the Companions.

“Last year, myself and one of my brothers had a dispute over something petty,” said Coughlin. “Unsure of what to make of our disagreement I prayed to God during one of the school Masses. My brother was attending as well. I remember clear as day the realization of how a small disagreement led to us making such a big deal of something so pathetic. Acting as St. Francis would, which is something chiseled into you as you spend your time at St. Francis, I apologized, as did he, which settled our quarrel. You see, it’s not all about the fancy tie and dress shoes you wear to school everyday, but something much deeper. It’s the logo you wear on your chest representing our school and what we mean as a brotherhood. How we should conduct ourselves as St. Francis gentlemen and men of God towards others.”

The rigorous academic programs at these institutions challenge students to excel while encouraging intellectual curiosity. By integrating faith and reason, students learn to approach complex issues with critical thinking and ethical decision-making.

Brotherhood and Community

Both schools foster a strong sense of brotherhood and community, where students build lifelong friendships and learn the value of collaboration. The Franciscan spirit of inclusivity creates an environment where every individual is respected and valued. Events like school Masses, athletic competitions, and performing arts productions bring students, families, and alumni together, strengthening the bonds that define these schools.

“The greatest gift from my Franciscan education at Curley, without a doubt, are the many relationships and close lifelong friends that I continue to enjoy to this day,” said John Nietubicz, a Baltimore area physical therapist and a 1980 graduate of Curley. “I am forever grateful and proud to be a part of the Curley Family!”

Service and Leadership

Inspired by the Franciscan call to serve, students at Archbishop Curley and St. Francis engage in extensive community service. Whether assisting local charities, participating in international mission trips, or mentoring younger students, they learn to lead through service. These experiences instill a sense of responsibility and empathy, preparing graduates to make a positive impact on the world.

The value of a Franciscan Catholic education lies in its ability to shape not only successful professionals but also compassionate leaders and faithful stewards of the community.

“As an alumnus, and in my cumulative 27th year on staff, it’s been a real blessing to see these values develop and become part of the fabric of a Curley education,” said Fr. Donald.

“My experience with the Franciscan spirit at Curley High School was not only about receiving an excellent education, but a strong formation of the man I would become,” said Nietubicz. “The dedicated faculty and nearly two dozen Franciscan Friars provided the educational foundation that set the trajectory for the rest of my life. I received the skills and knowledge I needed to be successful in college and ultimately led to my certification as a physical therapist. I have enjoyed my vocation for nearly 40 years. The strong faith in God I enjoy today was grounded in the spiritual guidance I received during my Franciscan education.”

Making a Difference

“Patrick Coughlin is the youngest of 10 children and all five of his brothers attended St. Francis,” said Fr. Matt. “He probably could not attend St. Francis without his scholarship from the Companions and other benefactors of our school and Franciscan education. We don’t want to get to the point where young men cannot receive a Catholic education because of financial reasons.”

The rewards are obvious.

If you ever want to express your gratitude for what you received from your Franciscan education, there is no better way than to give that opportunity to the next generation. Today’s private Catholic education tuition costs are out of reach for many families. Every small financial gift, given by many donors can do great things for those in need.

Protecting Cocoa Farms

There are few foods more pleasing than chocolate. It’s smooth, sweet taste and luxurious melt-in-your-mouth richness makes chocolate a treat that delights the senses and evokes feelings of comfort and joy.

Unfortunately, the production of chocolate is under attack. Specifically, the farms in West Africa, where 70% of the cocoa pod, the primary ingredient in chocolate, is grown, face threats from the impact of illegal mining, often referred to as “galamsey.”

One of the warriors fighting to protect cocoa farmers and educate local leaders is a Franciscan Friar from Ghana, Fr. Joseph Blay, OFM Conv.

In Ghana, particularly in the Jema community of the Aowin in the Western North Region, Fr. Joe has been instrumental in combating illegal mining activities. Through education and advocacy, he has mobilized local residents to resist the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining practices. His efforts have led the community to reject substantial bribes aimed at permitting illegal mining operations.

“Galamsey or mining is not like building the Akosombo Dam,” said Fr. Joe, who is a native of Jema. “The dam was something of national interest, going to serve the whole nation. But here, all those who are mining are just (pursuing) individual selfish needs.”

Fr. Joe emphasizes the importance of community involvement in environmental protection, advocating for zoning systems to regulate mining activities and preserve natural resources.

“The community has the power,” he said. “The irony is that the mining companies say they are bringing work to the youth and the youth say we have work. But our work is cocoa and the mining work is serving somebody’s selfish interest.”

Mining activities often involve clearing large swathes of land, leading to deforestation. The removal of tree cover affects local microclimates, which are crucial for growing cocoa. The crop requires shade and consistent rainfall. Furthermore, mining pollutes water sources with mercury and other harmful chemicals, making it unsuitable for irrigation and harming biodiversity.

The social and economic implications are equally troubling. Farmers whose land is seized or rendered infertile, lose their primary source of income, pushing them into poverty. Additionally, the lucrative allure of illegal mining draws labor away from cocoa farming.

“The threat of illegal mining is beyond Ghana because it is against sustainable development goals,” concluded Fr Joe. In addition to this work, Fr. Joe has served in Rome as Delegate General for Justice, Peace and Integrity for Creation. He has also worked with the Companions to secure funding for critical medical equipment donated to a clinic he started in Jema. Currently, he is working with the Companions to educate six young women for careers in professions like nursing, medicine, and engineering.