On October 17, 2023, six American Provinces of Franciscan Friars (Order of Friars Minor) gathered together in a joint Chapter. The Friars then officially merged into one Province, to be known as the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe. One can see the need for such an action; the number of Friars have been dwindling. It was probably felt that the Friars could be more effective together in one Province, than in multiple Provinces.

At one time, a loooong time ago, I entered the formation program for the Franciscan Friars of Holy Name Province. I would eventually feel that I was being called elsewhere, but I treasured my experiences with the Friars. When I was working in Boston, I would regularly visit St. Anthony’s Shrine, located in downtown Boston. It was maintained by the Friars of HNP. It was and still is a place where people can find spiritual refreshment. A place where one can find a kind and understanding Friar for confession.

Hopefully, this merger will be a source of rebirth for the American Franciscans.

If you are interested in learning more the Franciscans merger, go on Facebook and look for “The Anthonian Franciscan.”