Franciscans of Saint Bonaventure Province

Friars Minor Conventual

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Jake Polinski Postulancy Reflection

Postulant Jake Polinski shares his experience in postulancy This postulancy year has served as a great introduction to the Franciscan way of life, and has thus far created a solid foundation for me to further explore discernment of religious life. We live a balanced lifestyle in our formation house that involves a combination of active ministry, prayer, fraternal time, and formation (which includes one-on-ones, in-house classes, or special events). All four of these areas have

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March 30, 2026

5 Things to Know About the Solemnity of the Annunciation

March 25 marks the feast of the Solemnity of the Annunciation. Here are some important facts and thoughts to consider about this Annunciation. 1. Understanding the Annunciation The annunciation commemorates the moment the angel Gabriel announced God’s plan for Mary. She would be the mother of God’s son, Jesus Christ. This moment marks God’s decision to become man to save us from original sin, the divine angel entering the physical realm to impart divine knowledge

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March 25, 2026

Father Benedict La Volpe Discusses Historic Veneration of the Bones of Saint Francis of Assisi

Father Benedict La Volpe, a Franciscan all the way from Australia, got to see the sacred bones of Saint Francis of Assisi. These relics are on display for the first time since 1978 to honor the 800th anniversary of Saint Francis’ death. La Volpe, along with other friars and pilgrims, was blessed with the opportunity to encounter these sacred remains.  “They’ve encountered the spirit of Francis, the person of Francis, who speaks to them today,

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March 16, 2026

Iran’s only Catholic Bishop, Cardinal Dominique Mathieu, forced to evacuate to Rome

After traveling to Rome in January to participate in the consistory convened by Pope Leo XIV, and despite the escalating anti-government protests in Iran, 62 year old Conventual Franciscan Cardinal Dominique Mathieu, the Archbishop of Tehran-Isfahan and the only priest of his Archdiocese, was adamant to return to the 2,000 Roman Catholics, mostly non-Iranians, who reside there. As the conflict drastically worsened with US/Israeli bombings and the death of the country’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which

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March 11, 2026

The Seraph Newsletter (Winter 2025/26)

Check out the Winter issue of The Seraph, the newsletter of Saint Bonaventure Province, for news and notables from the Friars.
In this issue, we highlight the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis; we hear exciting updates from the Vocation Office; one of our Postulant’s shares about his experiences so far in formation; and how you can get a printable Lenten Almsgiving Calendar. You’ll also enjoy updates from our Apostolates (ministries) across the Midwest including photos from how Christmas was celebrated around the Province.
Lastly, do not forget to add our upcoming events to your calendars!

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February 6, 2026

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.