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From the Provincial Minister
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 | Provincial Minister
Primo P. Piscitello, OFM |
NEW YORK - Our Extraordinary Chapter is just over a month away, and I wanted to update everyone on our preparations for this historic gathering.
Everything is shaping up for our meeting in Wappingers Falls. Just this week, I met with Roch, Armand and Tom at the retreat house to settle all of the rooms and our needs for the meeting space on the third floor to make sure that everything is accessible by elevator.
The agenda is nearly completed and we are very excited about the presence of Cardinal Rodriguez who will open the Chapter with a special Mass for us. I had a chance to meet privately with him while I was in Florida for the Provincials meeting and he is truly looking forward to his time with us.
 I also wanted to let you know that we have also invited another friar to be with us and serve as Facilitator of our gathering. Fr. Francisco Gearóid Ó Conaire, OFM, is originally a friar from Ireland who later became a member of the Central American Province after having served there for many years as a missionary. He has also served as Executive Secretary of the Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Commission of the Union of Major Superiors and the International Union of Major Superiors in Rome. Francisco is a trained facilitator and currently serving as General Visitor to the St. John the Baptist Province.
I'm very happy to welcome Francisco to be with us and to help facilitate and animate our conversation together next month.
Join me in our continued prayer for the success of our Chapter.
God bless,
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Boston friars hold joint Regional Meeting with Holy Name Province
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BOSTON - Last October, the friars of the North End of Boston were invited to join the friars of the Holy Name Province at St. Anthony Shrine at Arch Street to celebrate the Feast of Our Father Saint Francis. Our brothers from our sister Province of Holy Name treated us to a wonderful evening of fraternity on the feast day of our founder.
Returning the hospitality, the friars of Boston extended an similar invitation to the friars of Arch Street to come visit the North End for a regional gathering and celebrate our fraternity together. A dozen friars from the Shrine accepted the invitation and came to the North End for an afternoon of prayer, fraternity, and of course, great food.
The gathering, held in St. Leonard's parish hall, began with a brief prayer service and a reflection on Singing the Franciscan Blues by Br. Joseph Powell, OFM. The friars from Arch Street were very appreciative of the hospitality extended. "A big thank you to all the friars for a memorable gathering and delicious pranzo! We friars from Arch street had a great time and enjoyed your warm hospitality. Joe Powell's reflection was a special and inspiring part of our gathering! What a talented and authentic young friar!" said John Hogan, OFM, Guardian at Arch Street.
John Maganzini, OFM, (pictured above) also commented in, "It was so good to see so many BROTHERS gathered in fraternal celebration. For me, many good memories of many times meeting so many of you. I hope this was the beginning of more times spent together. Always a warm welcome at the Shrine. Come any time!"
Br. Joe's reflection is below:
Let's talk about the Blues.
You know what I mean -- that sad, sweet music played on the jazzy swing of the saxophone or the hum of a sighing harmonica. It's the music about those little troubles in life, those small sorrows that sneak into the soul and sit there like an old friend you thought you'd forgotten. The Blues are a prayer, brother. Uh-huh. There's only one station on the old FM radio of life and it's playin' the Blues.
We all have our own way of singin' the Blues -- of living out those little troubles that knock on our heart's window panes. And sure enough we have our own Franciscan Blues. They're very different than anyone else's. There's the Dominican Blues. There's the Jesuit Blues. There's even the Benedictine Blues (which maybe they sing when they get up for the Midnight Office). But only we friars have the Franciscan Blues.
You know what I mean, brother. You're standing in the church in your habit, locking up, and some guy comes up to you and says: "So, are you some kind of monk?" And you say: "We'll, I'm glad you didn't say Jedi, first of all. But I'm not a monk - a monk takes a vow of stability and lives in an enclosed monastic community but we are friars who live a more mendicant lifestyle in order to preach the Gospel --" But the guy's already wandered off and you're left alone just singing the Franciscan Blues.
Uh-huh.
Or how about the fact that nobody cares if you wear sandals or not - until it's February and ten degrees out with three feet of snow and you decide to slip on the black dress shoes and everyone you meet points to your feet and says: "I thought friars were supposed to wear sandals. What's wrong with you?" And you just smile and start singing those good old Franciscan Blues.
Yes, we're surrounded by the Blues. It's not the color most often shown on the vocation posters, where joyful hearty Brown predominates. As it should. But Blue shows up an awful lot in our Franciscan lives. We may be wearing Brown and be singing the Blues.
Some things are just Blue. Tears, for instance, are Blue. That's the way we color 'em in as kids and that's the way they are. Our own tears . . . the tears of those we meet in ministry . . . the tears of a gritty messy world. That's part of Franciscan life.
Also Blue: our failed hopes and expectations. You know what I'm saying, brother. You're driving into the parking lot at Best Buy. There's one last space. You race to it. Victory is yours. Then at the last second a Blue Prius apparates out of nowhere and takes your spot. It's always a Blue Prius. Those cars were made to steal the last spaces in a parking lot. And so your failed expectations, also Blue.
Finally . . . Death is Blue. It's true. Ask anyone who's used an old version of Windows. The Blue Screen of Death. One of the scariest colors Death can wear. And yet as Franciscans we must live often with our sister bodily Death. She hums beside us like a worn-out harmonica, sighing the sad song of the Blues.
You may be saying, "Brother, enough of this depressing music. Isn't it Easter time? Play us some hallelujahs, man."
We are Easter people. We are Easter friars. So yes, we may have to put the Blue with the Brown and figure out a way to harmonize the medley. But God gives us His own set of Blues to inspire us and fill us with Franciscan joy.
First, there's the Blue of sea and sky -- the Blue of Creation. Our world hangs in space like a little blue marble and it is this world that shines with the radiance of God. St. Francis praised creation even on his sick-bed at San Damiano, when he could have been writing a bluesy song about how disgusting mice are. Instead he composed the Canticle of Creation. That's his gift to us, his boundless optimism and trust in the Creator's glorious universe.
The second Blue: again, tears. This time, though, the tears of Jesus. The tears of Christ show us his humanity more than anything else about him. The Gospels never depict Jesus laughing, only crying. For we could imagine a distant God who laughs at us; only a God who became human could every really weep with us and suffer with us. St. Francis loved the image of the poor, suffering, weeping Christ because it is in this Christ that God bends down to touch the very heart of humankind.
Lastly, the Blue of the Mother of God, the Blue of Mary. In this month of May we see her Blue everywhere: May crownings, Marian consecrations, Fatima processions. Her Blue is a Blue of hope, the hope of the most faithful disciple of Jesus, willing to follow and watch and wait silently for the redemption of the world. This Blue of hope is our flag, our banner -- our song.
These are the Blues God gives us, brother. These are the Franciscan Blues that are ours to sing. Even when the little troubles and the bigger sorrows tap our shoulders, stay for dinner, move right into the third floor guest room -- let's still sing those good old Franciscan Blues that are God's gift to Francis and Francis' gift to us.
Mmm-hmmm! Amen. Uh-huh. You know it, man.
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RIP: Fr. Gregory Imbroll, OFM (87)
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TORONTO, CANADA - Our brother, FR. GREGORY ERNEST IMBROLL, OFM (87), passed away on May 10  , in Toronto, Canada. Gregory was the son of Mary (Zarb) and Henry Imbroll and was born on January 22, 1927 in Senglea, Malta. He was originally a member of the Province of St. Paul in Malta and then, in 1999, he was fully incorporated into our Province of the Immaculate Conception.
Since the 1960's, Gregory served in Toronto at a number of parishes including St. Paul the Apostle, St. Matthew, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Charles Borromeo and St. Jane Frances.
On Monday, May 12, 2014, there was a wake from at Bernardo Funeral Home, 2960 Dufferin Street, North York, Ontario. On Tuesday, May 13, 2014, Fr. Gregory's body was welcomed to St. Jane Frances Church and a Prayer Vigil, in both English and Italian, was held.
The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at St. Jane Frances Church, 2747 Jane Street, North York, Ontario. Burial followed immediately follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 8361 Yonge Street, Thornhill, Ontario, Canada. . "Friars must remember to offer suffrages for every deceased friar of the province, professed or novice. In particular, each priest shall offer the Eucharist twice. When the news of the death of a friar is received, a concelebrated Mass in his memory should be scheduled in the friaries of the province and the foundations. On the 30th day after and on the first anniversary of the death of a confrere, professed or novice, the Eucharist shall be celebrated for him in the house to which he was assigned at the time of death." (PS-8.1-3) . Heavenly Father, we commend to your mercy Father Gregory and all our brothers who have embraced Sister Death and we thank you for the gift of their lives. United in faith and prayer, through the intercession of our Immaculate Mother Mary, Our Holy Father Saint Francis and Our Holy Mother Saint Clare, keep us ever steadfast in your love as we strive for your vision of a world made new.
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St. Anthony's NYC begins new homeless outreach
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By Fr. Joseph Lorenzo, OFM
NEW YORK - Back in the winter, I was approached by a group of parishioners from Blessed Sacrament Church on West 71st Street who spoke with much excitement and enthusiasm about a new outreach ministry to the homeless that they had started in their own parish. They called it The JoyJ Initiative.
Their idea was simple - that showing others the love of Christ would bring joy to the hearts of the homeless and the needy - but also great joy to our own hearts as we encountered in a special way those that society had passed by.
On February 9 and 10, one of their group, Louise Ulman, spoke passionately about the JoyJ Initiative at all our parish Masses, and of the desire to bring that ministry to Saint Anthony's. The proposal was simple - each person could find in their own busy schedule some time to reach out to others by preparing "Comfort Bags" to be distributed on the street. And these would be the means by which we could encounter the poor Christ who did not have a place in which to lay his head.
The response was, to say the least, tremendous. Over 50 people signed up immediately for the establishment of a JoyJ Chapter at St. Anthony's, and many others donated to the project. As weeks went on, the enthusiasm grew. We had several organizational meetings, and what emerged was a new generation of parishioners getting involved in our parish.
Finally, after much discussion, deliberation, preparing, shopping, planning, the JoyJ Initiative here at St. Anthony's was born.
On Thursday, May 1, a group of about 12 met at St. Anthony's Friary to assemble the "Comfort Bags" that would be distributed on the street. Each bag included street sheets- information on how to get assistance for food, shelter, medical assistance, legal help, etc. in Manhattan. Also placed in the Comfort Bags were ponchos, socks, toothbrushes and toothpaste, liquid soap, bottled water, cookies, granola bars, a fresh sandwich (which would be delivered the day of the distribution), and other essential items. Also, 60 McDonald Arch cards worth $10.00 each would be given out.
On Saturday, May 3, 16 members of Saint Anthony's, assisted by some of the veterans from Blessed Sacrament Church, assembled for last minute instructions. The excitement was unbelievable. The joy was tremendous. Each volunteer realized that, not only would they be assisting those most in need, but that they would also have an opportunity to see face to face (and hopefully speak to) those people who have been cast aside in our city. Even in such a wealthy neighborhood as Soho- where the rich and the famous not only shop but live- the face of the poor Christ is clearly evident.
Each was given some bags, along with a bright green scarf for identity, and business cards. We met at the front steps of the church for a prayer, and, after taking some photos, were off to the races. Some went north, south, east, and west. Concentration would be on places where the homeless assemble- such as Washington Square Park, just three streets north of the church.
As word came back of the experiences, it became obvious that what we had set out to do was accomplished beyond our wildest expectations. Parishioners spoke of special encounters they had with the people on the street.
One of our parishioners, Leila Araiche, wrote: "The experience was incredible. I'm not going to say it was easy for me to walk up to someone I don't know and engage in conversation but when I did it, it was very rewarding. We were actually concerned about identifying the right people and didn't want to insult anyone by giving them a bag when they weren't really homeless... We also struggled with the right opening line. They didn't know what we were saying when we told them we were part of the JoyJ initiative so we said we were from the church - or we just asked if they were hungry. There were a few people who wanted just the sandwich or socks (socks were a big hit!) and the McDonald gift cards were really great (I still have a few I'm giving out throughout the week). My favorite person was Anthony who I found Sunday morning - he said he did odd jobs but didn't have luck in getting work - he was so appreciative for the bag and the conversation, he cried a bit and gave me a hug. My daughter Danielle and her friend (ages 15) also found it incredibly rewarding."
She continued, "I'm looking forward to next steps. There are a lot of people at the church who came up to me on Sunday and apologized for missing it but committed to doing it with us next time. I think we could do double the bags....Thank you so much for bring this to us. I've been searching for something like this for years and it feels great to be a part of it."
Brian Kelly, the parish chair of JoyJ StAnthony, wrote, "For me, the best thing about this experience was the refreshing change in perspective. Like a lot of New Yorkers, I often unconsciously ignore anything or anyone that isn't a part of what I'm doing, which of course is very dehumanizing. The actual giving part of this activity was amazing, whether it was the three guys in Chinatown who acted like they won the lottery or the guy in the subway station who was asleep and looked like he really needed the bag. I'll remember those, but more importantly, just learning about these guys and their lives directly from them helped me to see outside of that NY shell of efficiency. Now the real challenge is maintaining that perspective. "
For me as pastor, it was an uplifting experience. And it showed what we are capable of doing in the future. Who knows where all of this will lead? Certainly, the enthusiasm this has generated hasn't been seen in a long time. My personal thanks goes out to all who participated and assisted us in any way. And certainly, above all, we thank God for giving us the grace and strength to bring His name to others.
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Reflection on the Papal Canonizations
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By Br. Roberto Serrano, OFM
ROME - This has been an exciting Easter for the brothers living atConvento San Francesco in Rome. The Maltese Brothers went home to join in the Centennial celebration of their Province, while Br. Walter Vijil, myself along with Br. Andrea Korai Ylmatz (a Turkish Brother from the community of Palestrina) were blessed enough to serve at the General Curia during the Triduum. The friars at the Curia always welcome us excitedly to celebrate with them, and are more than ready offer help whenever asked. This comes in handy when you have friars from many cultures, each with their own traditions, making last minute suggestions and changes, culminating in a beautiful display of fraternal diversity and unity.
 | | Friars with Cardinal Sean O'Malley, OFM Cap. on the roof of the Convento |
After the Easter celebration we were joined by Friars Robert Artman, Chris Gaffrey, Ronald Gliatta and Antonio Nardoianni, who came to attend the Canonization of Saints John XIII and John Paul II. It was a wonderful opportunity to catch up with those of whom we had not seen for some time, and meet others who we had not had the chance to get to know until then.
 | | Cardinal Sean meets Daniella |
One of the highlights of that time, however, was having Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley, OFM Cap. over for lunch on Monday. He was invited by Fr. Antonio Nardoianni, with the encouragement of Fr. Antonio Riccio, and was accompanied by Fr. Johnathan Gaspar (his secretary) and Fr. Kevin J. O'Leary (rector of the Cathedral in Boston).
The atmosphere was jovial and lively, filled with both laughter and deep conversations. The food, prepared by our wonderful cook Daniella, was delicious and served to nurture the environment. At the end of the meal, Cardinal Sean addressed the table thanking us for our hospitality, but taking advantage of the moment to express his appreciation for all that our Friars have done and continue to do in the Archdiocese of Boston. Afterward we all made our way up to the terrace to take a group picture with the Cupola of St. Peter's in the background. The photo was taken by Fr. Johnathan, after which they prepared to depart. However, before leaving, Fr. Antonio Riccio made sure to introduce the Cardinal to the most important person in the house - Daniella. He thanked her for the food and care she took in preparing it, then bid us a farewell. All in all it was a wonderful, experience, reflective of the wonderful opportunities afforded us here in Rome.
 | | Fr. Ronald Gliatta, OFM, at the Papal Canonizations |
I thank all my brothers for taking the time to read this and ask you to keep us all in your prayers, as you are ever in ours. May God give you peace.
Pictures by Br. Roberto Serrano, OFM
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Br. Robert Artman also submitted some photos. The first is from a visit to "Istituto Beato Ludovico Da Casoria", a rehabilitation house in Assisi founded by Fr. Ludovico da Casoria. It is now run by Franciscan sisters. The second photo is in front of the Basilica of St. Francis.
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Franciscan Evangelical Life Retreat
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WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY - Fr. Andre Cirino, OFM, along with Ann Bremmer, OSF, are both leading a retreat entitled, "Franciscan Evangelical Life" this summer from July 6-11 at Mount Alvernia Retreat Center.
The retreat focuses on the Gospel evangelical examples of Sts. Francis and Clare with five areas of focus; Conversion, Contemplation, Fraternitas, Ministry and Mission.
The cost is $500 and participants are requested to register by contacting Fr. Roch Ciandella, OFM at (845) 297-5706 or mtalverniaretreat@gmail.com.
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Fr. Richard Passeri celebrates 95th Birthday
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BOSTON - Fr. Richard Passeri, OFM, the oldest friar in the Province, celebrated his 95th Birthday with the friars at St. Christopher Friary on May 6. Happy Birthday Richard! Ad multos annos!
 | | Fr. Richard Passeri celebrating his 95th Birthday |
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Heralds of the Gospel visit Valley of the Angels
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VALLEY OF THE ANGELS, GUATEMALA - On Monday April 28, the Commission of Hospitality Visits of the Heralds of Christ of the Gospel (Guatemala) visited Valley of the Angels.
They were received by Fr. Michael Della Penna, the children and staff, who were very friendly and attentive. At Valley, they met the orphans and the disadvantaged children, who live and study there, thanks to the generosity of the Immaculate Conception Province, many benefactors and good hearted people.
The Heralds led a rosary and then attended the celebration of the Eucharist which was presided by Fr Michael. At the end of the Mass, their was a brief talk on the history of the congregation and St Alfonso. After the children venerated the statue of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and each child was given a rosary, a holy card of Mary and a little gift to remember the visit.
After Mass the delegation was invited to a tour of the facility and lunch, where they were invited to share about how they became involved in the movement and what recent activities they participated in the mission.
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Province Retreat set for October 19-23
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WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY - The annual Province Retreat has been scheduled to take place October 19-23 at Mount Alvernia Retreat Center. The retreat will be a joint endeavor with the Capuchin Friars of St. Mary Province, also based in New York.
The theme of this year's retreat will be "Pope Francis and the New Evangelization: Implications for How We Evangelize as Franciscans." The retreat will be directed by Fr. Bill Cieslak, OFM Cap.
Fr. Bill lived with the friars of the St. Barbara Province for 25 years while teaching Sacramental Theology, Sacred Liturgy and courses in The Legacy of the Franciscan Theological Tradition and Intellectual Tradition at the Franciscan School of Theology at Berkeley, California. He is currently the Director of Preaching and Evangelization for the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph and lives in Chicago.
The retreat will begin at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 19 and will conclude following lunch on Thursday, October 23. Friars interested in attending must register by contacting Fr. Roch Ciandella at (845) 297-5706 Ext. 112 by October 13.
Friars attending this retreat who are engaged in parochial and other external ministries and who are allowed a stipend for their annual retreat are kindly asked to donate that stipend to Mount Alvernia to help with the expenses related to the retreat.. |
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RIP: Matthias John Pastore, 88
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GLENDALE, AZ - Matthias "Matt" John Pastore, 88, of Glendale, Arizona passed away on December 9, 2013. Services were held at the Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E Lincoln Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, on Thursday, December 19th.
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