The Seraph Newsletter (Fall 2026) The Fall Newsletter is here! In this edition of The Seraph, we meet some of the new friars who have come to serve in our Province of St. Bonaventure; the Minister General sends a special message for the 800th Anniversary of the Death of St. Francis; there are tons of … Read more
St. John was born in Capistrano, Italy in 1385. He was a student of the law at the University of Perugia and was a practicing lawyer for some time in Naples. He was appointed governor of Perugia and during war with a neighboring town was betrayed and imprisoned. After he was released from his imprisonment … Read more
Pope John Paul II was born in Wadowice, Poland. His Slavic heritage inspired his effort to promote greater understanding between nations and religions, leading him to make numerous trips abroad. During these trips he spoke out against political oppression and criticized the materialism of the West. Pope St. John Paul II also issues several apologies … Read more
Today, October 3rd, marks the Transitus of Saint Francis. In Latin, transitus means “crossing over,” and today we celebrate Francis’ crossing over from life on earth to life in Heaven with God. Tomorrow, October 4th is Saint Francis’ feast day. We are reminded of his great faith, his humble heart, and the great example he … Read more
On Monday, August 24, 2026, + Br. Martin SCHMITZ was embraced by Sister Death at the Little Sisters of the Poor – St. Joseph Home for the Elderly in Palatine, IL, aged 96, and having been a Franciscan Religious Brother for over 75 years. His loss is felt throughout the Province of St. Bonaventure and … Read more
As many of you may be aware, on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saturday August 15, The National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe at Marytown celebrated the unveiling of a brand-new bronze statue at the front entrance of the Shrine. Sculpted in Poland and cast in the Ukraine, the statue … Read more
August is Make a Will Month! “Possessions are not ours, but are lent by God.” – St. Francis of Assisi “Why are the life insurance policies in the boys’ school folder???” – Jennifer Georgis I aspire to reach St. Francis’ level of spiritual detachment — the deep trust that everything we have is simply on loan from God, … Read more
The Seraph Newsletter (Summer 2026) The Summer Newsletter is Here! In this issue, we highlight the men in formation with our Province of St. Bonaventure; the Vocation Office tells us what they have been busy with; the Mission Advancement Office tell us a little about ‘National Make-A-Will Day;’ and you’ll also enjoy updates from our … Read more
The name of the holiday is based on a small chapel that holds immense significance for the Order of Conventual Franciscan Friars. The Chapel of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi is the birthplace of the Order of the Friars Minor and the Order of St. Clare. This Chapel is also the location of … Read more
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.
