HOW WE SERVE

Each friar contributes to the mission of the Order by developing and applying his God-given talents. Teaching, nursing, administering sacraments, tailoring, and sharing musical or artistic abilities are just some of the ways we build up the Kingdom of God. We also place special emphasis on serving the most vulnerable of society.

Universal Presence

The Italian heart of the Order is centered in our continuous ministry at the 13th century basilica tombs of St. Francis in Assisi and St. Anthony in Padua. Today, Conventual friars serve in 67 countries on six continents.

Local Identity

St. Bonaventure Province was established in 1939 to serve the Midwestern United States. Our friars currently minister in the Archdiocese of Chicago, Milwaukee, and Detroit, and the diocese of Peoria, IL.

Chicago Area

St. Bonaventure Friary

Provincial Residence & Postulancy (1st year of initial formation) Program

Mary, Mother of God Parish

The National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe (Marytown, Libertyville, IL)

Central Illinois

St. Mary Catholic Church (Wenona, IL), St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (Lostant, IL), St. Patrick Catholic Church (Minok, IL), and St. Ann Catholic Church (Toluca, IL)

Detroit Area

St. Hedwig Cemetery (Dearborn Heights, MI)

St. Linus Church (Dearborn Heights, MI)

Milwaukee, WI

The Basilica of St. Josaphat 

St. Josaphat Parish School

Safeguarding Statement

The Franciscan Friars Conventual of St. Bonaventure Province are committed to creating safe environments for children and vulnerable adults.

Every friar in active ministry must complete training in Virtus (the National Catholic Risk Retention Group) and any other safe environment compliances required by the dioceses in which they serve.

In addition, St. Bonaventure Province has its own Safe Environment Commission that oversees the implementation and monitoring of the Province’s Policies, Procedures, and Protocols for Ethical Ministry with Minors and Vulnerable Adults. 

Any allegation regarding the Franciscan Friars Conventual of this Province receives an immediate response. This includes the Province’s full cooperation with local law enforcement authorities and Ordinaries who have ecclesial jurisdiction over these matters, as well as a duly diligent investigation by a qualified third party in order to substantiate credibility.