The world is abuzz with the recent election of Pope Leo XIV. Most are focused on the significance of the first Pope from the USA, but another somewhat overshadowed milestone is the fact that Pope Leo XIV is also the first pontiff to be elected from the Augustinian Order; so, what does this mean? A reflection by Br. Bernard Mary Fonkalsrud OFM Conv.
These first few months of 2025 are already off to a busy start for the Vocations Office. The ‘SEEK Conference’ in Salt Lake City, UT, launched an exciting and optimistic new year of vocation promotion. Since then, Br. Bernard Mary has had many more invitations and opportunities to share our life as Franciscans and engage with young people earnestly discerning God’s call.
Check out the latest issue of The Seraph, the newsletter of Saint Bonaventure Province, for news and notables from the Friars. This issue includes photos from Holy Week and Easter Sunday around the Province. You can also enjoy updates from our ministries (Apostolates) across the Midwest. Lastly, don’t miss out on upcoming events you might want to add to your calendar.
Enjoy this reflection on the postulancy year from George Harris, postulant from St. Bonaventure Province in the class of 2024-25. “Contributing to an 800-year-old tradition within a 2000-year-old tradition has a magical quality to it. Change occurs gradually here, and God willing, permanently. Whatever may happen as I move forward, I know I am better for this last year…”
As we step into the vibrant season of Easter, we are filled with deep gratitude for the overwhelming generosity you showed during our Christmas Appeal. The gifts you shared with us during the Christmas season continue to bear fruit as we embrace this new season of growth and renewal.
The Lord is risen! Alleluia! “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.” Alleluia! Read the Easter Message from our Provincial Fr. Paul Joseph Langevin, OFM.
We’re to share these holy cards of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis Anthony Fasani, and St. Maximilian Kolbe! May the intercessions of these great Franciscan Saints strengthen our faith, inspire new vocations, and encourage us to preach the truth with love and courage.
Everyone—friars, staff, volunteers, and donors—has a vital role in advancing the mission of the Order. Whether that be through contributions of financial support, prayer, and purpose-driven service. Hear from our new Director of Mission Advancement about how to shift philanthropy to a collective endeavor that mirrors St. Francis of Assisi’s vision: serving others and inspiring unity within a fraternal society.
On the evening of August 9, 1991, in the village of Pariacoto, Peru, two Conventual Franciscan friars, Fr. Michał Tomaszek and Fr. Zbigniew Strzałkowski, were abducted and killed by the terrorist group the Shining Path. Their story continues to inspire, especially as Christians around the world still suffer persecution. In honor of their witness and to encourage vocations, the Province of St. Bonaventure was presented first-class relics of the martyrs.
Sign-up to learn more about the Conventual Franciscan Friars of St. Bonaventure Province. Don’t miss out on news and notables as well as details about upcoming events from the community.
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.
