Franciscans of Saint Bonaventure Province

Friars Minor Conventual

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Incoming Novices Reflect on Their Discernment Journeys & Postulancy Year

There are three stages in the initial formation of a Franciscan friar after preliminary discernment: postulancy, novitiate, and post-novitiate.

In July, five men will be invested with the Franciscan habit and begin novitiate, the second stage of formation, in California. We interviewed each of the incoming novices and asked them to share their experience over the last year of postulancy. You can watch their videos below or click here for the full video playlist.

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George Harris

What drew you to discern with the Conventual Franciscans?

How has your experience of prayer changed since entering formation?

What has been the most affirming moment in your discernment so far?

What advice would you give to someone just beginning this formation process?

What excites you the most about entering the novitiate?

Kole Resler

What aspects of community life have been the most fulfilling?

What is a meaningful experience you had with the friars this past year?

Do you have any fears or concerns about entering the novitiate?

What does it mean to take this next step towards Religious Life?

Matthew Flaherty

What advice would you give to someone just starting this formation process?

How has your relationship with  your formators influenced your discernement?

What drew you to discern with the Conventual Franciscans?

How has your understanding of Franciscan Spirituality deepened over the past year?

Paul Devera

What draws you to the vocation of Brotherhood rather than Priesthood?

How has your experience of prayer changed since entering formation?

What are your expectations for the next stage of formation?

Have there been any doubts or struggles in your discernment?

Tristen Paraiso

What have you learned about living in community this past year?

Have there been any struggles in your discernment journey?

What has been the most impactful experience during postulancy?

Looking back on this year, how do you see God’s hand guiding your journey?

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Franciscans of Saint Bonaventure Province

Friars Minor Conventual

6107 North Kenmore Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60660

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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.