Reflections on 2024

Since arriving in the U.S. three months ago, I’ve certainly hit the ground running! I want to thank Fr. Paul Joseph Langevin for stepping in to manage Vocations during the transition and for giving me a great head start with contacts. Even without any major promotional efforts, the Holy Spirit has been guiding inquirers our way, mainly through our Provincial website.

Before leaving Australia, I was already able to meet with men virtually, and it’s been inspiring to hear their stories and see their sincere desire to discern God’s will. Since arriving stateside, I’ve had the opportunity to meet men in person and introduce them to our life and ministries with
visits to the House of Studies, Marytown, and the Basilica of St. Josaphat.

In late September, I hosted my first “Come & See” weekend at Kenmore, welcoming seven men. The event was a great success, with attendees expressing gratitude for the experience and the chance to engage with the friars and postulants. Many of them left with a stronger sense that the Franciscan life could be their calling. I’ve been able to stay in touch with all the men, and most are continuing their discernment with us.

Looking ahead, the CFF will host a common “Come & See” weekend at the Chicago House of Studies in November, and our next local SB “Come & See” weekend will take place at
Marytown in early December. I’ve also had the blessing of connecting with a troop of Catholic Boy Scouts, visiting multiple college campuses, attending men’s conferences, and participating in Diocesan Vocation Fairs. Alongside Stephanie Held, our Vocations Communications Coordinator, we’ve been working hard to update our Vocations materials, including brochures, booklets, bookmarks, and social media. We’ve also created new pull-up banners and other exhibition items.

Currently, nine men are actively discerning their vocation with us, and one is in the application process for 2025. I’m hopeful that one or two more will start the process by year’s end.

Thank you all for your continued support and prayers for Vocations. Remember, we’re all ‘Vocation Promoters,’ working together to inspire others to consider life as a friar. Sometimes, it just takes asking the question, “Have you ever thought about becoming a Franciscan?”

Br. Bernard Mary Fonkalsrud OFM Conv.
Vocation Director