Missions

A group photo of the Gather and Discern attendees. Photos by Sam Reinke and Sr. Eileen Connelly, OSU The sense of unity, fraternity and joy was obvious as Franciscan friars from the US-6 provinces came together at the…

Friars Brian Menezes and Tyler Grudi participated in the Brothers Walking Together program. Dear Friends, Each year, friars in formation participate in the Brothers Walking Together program—an interprovincial, post-novitiate experience coordinated by the six US provinces in which…

Fr. Francis Tebbe sprinkles holy water on Maggie, a nine-year-old amputee service dog, as her owner Becky Buchanan of Munster keeps hold of a stroller during the blessing and introduction of the pet therapy program at Franciscan Health…

Colleen and John Gerke pose for a photo with guests Rosa and baby David. A simple plaque on a wall in John and Colleen Gerke’s St. Bernard home proclaims a deeply meaningful message. It reads in part: “This…

Since Fr. Colin King’s arrival to the friars’ Jamaican missions about five years ago, he has been instrumental in the development of many lifesaving projects and initiatives, including a medical and dental clinic that you helped make possible.

Nancy and Tim Cahoon What started as a friar’s personal prayer intention for Lent became an opportunity for others in his parish and beyond to join in praying for peace throughout this holy season. Fr. Jeff…

Br. Tim Sucher, OFM, chats with Andre Indalecisco. All photos by Sr. Eileen Connelly, OSU Everyone needs a place where they feel safe and secure, where they can experience community, acceptance and, most of all, God’s love.

Lois Shegog and Maria Payne. Photo by Sr. Eileen Connelly, OSU When Maria Payne ended up homeless last fall after fleeing from the drug deals and violence running rampant in her apartment building, she felt hopeless and alone.…

Roger Bacon students load desks bound for Jamaica. Thanks to some creative friar thinking and the generosity of Roger Bacon High School, students in Jamaica will soon have their own work space to spread…

  Br. Phil McCarter joins in a vigil remembering migrants who have died in the Arizona desert. In late September, Phil McCarter and Kevin Hamzik (Holy Name Province), both currently serving in Elfrida, Ariz., joined the School Sisters…