Read this Special Edition of The Seraph which covers the recent Provincial Chapter (Part One) held during the week of April 27 – May 1, 2026, at the National Shrine of St. Maximilian at Marytown, Libertyville IL.
The Spring Newsletter is Here! 🌻
In this issue, we hear exciting updates from the Vocation Office; we remember our dearly departed + Fr Edmond DeForges; the Mission Advancement Office shares how the generous contributions of our benefactors have greatly supported the Friars; and you’ll also enjoy updates from our Apostolates (ministries) across the Midwest including photos from how the Easter Triduum was celebrated around the Province. Lastly, do not forget to add our upcoming events to your calendars!
Saint Francis has attracted attention for the eight centuries following his death. He was “common but rare,” a combination that inspires sisters, brothers, priests and laypeople to this day. Focusing on a life of humble simplicity, like Saint Francis of Assisi did, you to become one with humanity while simultaneously growing an extraordinary relationship with God. His ascetic lifestyle elicited a response of wonder from those who met him, and those who remember him centuries
During Holy Week, you probably participated in the Stations of the Cross or saw others from your community doing so. But what exactly are the Stations of the Cross? This prayerful tradition not only allows us to get a better glimpse of Jesus’ passion but allows us to enter an interactive prayer that brings us closer to God. By learning the importance of each station and how best to practice Stations of the Cross you
Odds are, in a few weeks your neighborhood parish is going to be laying colorful plastic eggs filled with sweet treats in a nearby field. Children with woven baskets will line up in hopes of collecting more eggs, and in turn candy, than their eager friends. It’s a lovely holiday celebrating the conclusion of Lent, the resurrection of Christ, and the coming of spring. But what do bunnies, eggs, and baskets have to do with
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
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.
