January 16th is a significant date in the life of St. Anthony of Padua. Francisco de Zurbarán, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons In 1210, Anthony joined the Canons of St. Augustine in Lisbon, Portugal, to study for the…
Read MorePhoto by Walter Chávez on Unsplash Our founder, St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226), was deeply touched by the Incarnation of Jesus. God’s decision to take human form became an essential part of Franciscan spirituality. Francis was very moved…
Read MoreFr. John Bok, OFM Thanksgiving is a wonderful reminder for us to really think about our many blessings and to give thanks to God for them. Most of us are fortunate enough to spend time with family and…
Read MoreA car goes airborne over Fr. John Bok’s vehicle. I believe in science and the laws of physics. My first assignment after ordination was to our Franciscan high school in Cincinnati. I taught various science classes including physics.…
Read MoreFr. John Bok, OFM We are excited to share some wonderful news with you! In October 2023, our Cincinnati province will join five other US provinces to become one really big Franciscan family named Our Lady of Guadalupe…
Read MoreMost people enjoy family reunions. There is something wonderful about seeing relatives you haven’t seen for some time who live out of town. Fr. Mark Soehner congratulates Fr. John Bok on 60 years as a Franciscan priest at…
Read MoreFr. Colin King holds high the 1st class relic of St. Anthony of Padua to bless the crowds visiting from Michigan. Photo by Fr. Frank Jasper (2018) How do you celebrate St. Anthony’s Feast Day? For many of…
Read MoreTroy Apke of the Washington Commanders is the great-nephew of Fr. John. Photo of Troy by a family member. You might find it interesting that my brother, Fr. Jim, and I have a great nephew who is on…
Read MoreFr. John Bok, OFM I was born and raised in Cincinnati. Nearly 48 of my 59 years of ministry as a Franciscan priest have been in Cincinnati. As is true of the majority of Cincinnatians, I am very…
Read MoreDear Friends, Fr. John Bok, OFM Lent begins on March 2 this year. During this 40-day season of preparation leading us to celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter, many of us seek the Lord in prayer…
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