Franciscan Friars (OFM)

Province of the

Immaculate Conception



Provincial News June 2023

Today, you constantly hear different issues, whether it’s the high price of groceries or gasoline, the difficulties of living in the city, the influx of tourists, traffic, the smell of garbage, and even honking cars.  Our list of things to complain about constantly grows.  As friars we may complain about the guardian or the pastor, or the Mass schedule, or the employees, or living with Father so and so and Brother what’s his name.  For sports fans, we can complain about the Red Sox or the Yankees, or- of course, the weather or politics.  

I think any intelligent person realizes that life comes with adversity and inconveniences.  We may remember our parents or grandparents trying to give us lessons in life.  They would love to talk about how difficult things were “in the old days.”  They came to this country in the midst of many problems seeking a new life.  They were met with unbelievable obstacles, such as language, culture, finding a job and even prejudice.  

We can remember the older friars lecturing us on the way things used to be and the sacrifices they had to make.  Of course, many times we took their tales of woe with a large dose of salt.  They would talk about sleeping on mattresses made of hay, of having no televisions, of having to walk everywhere, of eating tree bark for dinner, and walking to school ten miles- uphill both ways.  But we know that the lessons were clear- adversity and sacrifice make us stronger and hold valuable life lessons for us. 

Some examples:

Lucille Ball, when she began studying as an actress, was told by her instructors that she should choose another profession, that she would never be a success.

Universal Pictures in 1959 fired both Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds at the same meeting, saying that they had no talent.

In 1962, four nervous young musicians were turned down by Decca Records as having a horrible sound- they would become the Beatles.

When Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone, the President of the US, Rutherford B. Hayes, stated, “it’s an amazing invention but who would ever want to use one of these?”

Thomas Edison was called too slow to go to school.

I think the lesson is clear.  If we utilize our energy to making things better and changing things rather than constantly complaining, we will have a better world, a better society, a better church, and a better fraternity.  

Wishing all of you a restful and enjoyable summer.  I am, 

News from the Convento San Francesco

Peace and all good dear brothers! Last month our fraternity experienced such special moments in celebrating the life of our brothers in fraternity.

During this month, we have shared the joy of celebrating several birthdays, we congratulate and wish them and their families all the best, especially in their vocations: Father Pierre (who turned 25), Brother Luis Hernández, and Brother Gabriel Rojas. In one of the celebrations we were also able to meet Rita Furgiuele, sister of our brother Father Peter Furgiuele. Another special moment was on the 27th where we welcomed the friars of the Immaculate Conception of Spain, who reside in the Convent Santi Quaranta and San Pasquale Baylon, for a moment of prayer, fraternity, joy, getting to know each other and sharing some delicious pizzas on our beautiful terrace.

In other news, we are blessed to have been given a new opportunity at St. Peter’s Basilica. On Wednesdays during the month of June we have been invited by the Pastor of the basilica to assist in processions which are called "The Road to Saint Peter" which happen within the basilica at various stations and points of interest.

On the feast of St. Anthony, we celebrated the onomastico of the Guardian, Fr Antonio Riccio and Fr Antonio Nardoianni, with a great lunch.

During this time we are finishing our semester at the university and it has been a really good moment to grow in our philosophical and theological knowledge, and we are also happy waiting to go to our summer assignments. Please continue to pray for us. As always, you are all in our prayers!.

Greetings to all our brothers from the eternal city and may the Lord bless you and keep you as we are united in prayer.

Brother Aldair and Brother Daniel R. Luna

Photos below: the brothers serving at St. Peter's Basilica

Birthday Celebrations

Summer Assignments for Convento Friars

Br. Daniel Luna Ramirez- Agape, El Salvador

Br. Kevin Ottoniel Hernandez- Valle de los Angeles, Guatemala

Br. John Sidoti- St. Joseph Parish, Winsted, CT

Br. Nelson Aldair Orantes Calderon- Winsted, CT

Br. Daniel Cavalieri- Inmaculada Concepcion, Ataco, El Salvador

Br. Dagoberto Hernandez Lopez- St. Peter, Woodbridge, Ontario

Br. Kevin Gabriel Gonzalez Vega- St. Christopher, Boston

Br. Efrain Gabriel Rojas Mendieta- St. Christopher, Boston

Br. Oscar Valle Perez- Padua Friary, NYC (work with Health Care)

Br. Luis Antonio Hernandez Lopez- – Ministry in Italy

ELDERCARE/HEALTHCARE UPDATE

Lots of transitions!  Our brother Armand Padula had a significant journey in the last few months. He traveled from Mt. Alvernia, where he was stationed for more than fifty years total, to Teresian House in Albany, NUY and has now landed at St. Lawrence Infirmary in Beacon, NY run by the Capuchin Friars of Stigmata Province. Armand is in good spirits and seems quite happy, although he reports, “We pray a lot. Two rosaries a day together.”  We should all be assured that Armand is keeping us in those prayers.

Claude Scrima has transitioned to St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham, MA. Like Teresian House, it is run by the Carmelite Sisters of Germantown, NY.  Claude remains the “life of the party” where he continues to speak French to all who pass by. St. Patrick’s Manor is also the new home of Maurus Muldoon. His Excellency took up residence to assist in his medical care. Maurus receives regular treatments at Massachusetts General Hospital and will also avail himself of area doctors and hospitals. The proximity of family and friars makes this a good location for him.

Ozanam Hall, another residence staffed by the Carmelite Sisters, is in Queens, NY. Our brother Louis Troiano was transferred to Ozanam after his stay at NYU Langone Hospital. Lois suffered a fall. After rehabilitation, Louis will remain in long-term care at Ozanam.

And yet another transfer, Simeon DiStefano now resides at Mary Manning Walsh Home, once again run by the Carmelite Sisters, located in Manhattan. Simeon just finished a course of Physical Therapy and is in long-term care.

Angelo Monti, a new resident at St. Christopher Friary, Boston having spent a few years in Kolbe Friary in Mt. Vernon recently reported that, “I am the happiest I have been in my life.”

Finally, at the time of this writing, our brother John-Michael Pinto is hospitalized. John-Michael is being treated at NYU Langone, Brooklyn. He is a member of the Our Lady of Peace Friary community in Brooklyn.

Contact information follows:

Fr. Armand Padula, OFM

St. Lawrence Friary

180 Sargent Ave

Beacon, NY 12508

845-831-0394

Bishop Maurus Muldoon, OFM

Fr. Claude Scrima, OFM

St. Patrick’s Manor

863 Central St.

Framingham, MA

508-879-8000

Fr. Simeon DiStefano, OFM

Mary Manning Walsh Home

1339 York Ave.

New York, NY 10021

212-628-2800

Fr. Louis Trioano, OFM

Ozanam Hall

42-41 201^st St. 

Bayside, NY 11361

(No phone number as he cannot receive calls due to hearing loss.)

Fr. John Bucchino Marks 50th Anniversary of Priesthood Ordination

On Sunday, May 21, Fr. John Bucchino, Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church in Manchester, New Hampshire, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of his ordination as a priest. The celebration was marked with both simplicity and reverence. Fr. Robert Campagna, Provincial Minister, was the main celebrant and Fr. Robert Caprio gave the homily. The after the Mass a social was held on the parish hall.

Fr. John was ordained on May 19, 1973 at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Manhattan by Bishop Lawrence Graziano, O.F.M.

Throughout these fifty years, Fr. John has ministered in a variety of capacities: as a chaplain; as Formation Director for our province- guiding our young friars preparing for Solemn Vows and Ordination; in parish ministry; as a pastor; and in administration as Vicar Provincial of our Province.  

From his beginnings in the North End of Boston, to Christopher Columbus High School, all through his seminary training and professional education, Fr. John has dedicated himself to holiness and faithfulness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

He is deeply appreciated by the parishioners of Blessed Sacrament, where Fr. John continues the Franciscan tradition begun with the Capuchin Franciscans who staffed the parish before our province assumed responsibility for the church.

Fr. Robert extended congratulations to Fr. John on behalf of the province. Fr. John thanked his parishioners in the parish bulletin with these words:

What a wonderful celebration you provided for my 50th anniversary to the priesthood. On behalf of my family, my Franciscan brothers, and my friends, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. The event could truly be called a “celebration of the spirit!" Everyone had such a marvelous 􏰀me. The food and friendship exchanged was great! I also want to thank our parish Social Ministry Committe for organizing such a wonderful gathering. They worked hard and expressed their love for the parish and for me by providing a great time for all. God bless you, and thank you for your attendance and prayers. With love, Fr. John 

Br. Angelo Monti Bids Farewell to FMA

After 43 Remarkable Years

With a mixture of gratitude and bittersweet sentiment, we share the news of Br. Angelo Monti's retirement from his dedicated service at Franciscan Mission Associates (FMA). After an impressive 43-year journey, Angelo bids farewell, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who have had the privilege of working with him.

In honor of this occasion, FMA organized a celebration on May 15, 2023. The day commenced with a special Mass, where colleagues came together to express their gratitude and admiration for Br. Angelo's remarkable service. Following the Mass, a joyous breakfast was shared among the staff, creating an opportunity for Brother to bid farewell and exchange heartfelt goodbyes, well wishes, and prayers.

Angelo embarked on his journey with FMA on January 14, 1980, alongside the revered Fr. Bernard Dazzi, starting in the Mail Opening Department. Throughout the years, his unwavering commitment led him to work in various capacities. His tireless dedication has been invaluable to the growth and success of our organization.

As we bid farewell to Br. Angelo, we acknowledge the significant impact he has made not only within the staff but, most notably, among the countless donors he has connected with throughout the years. His compassion and sincerity have touched the lives of numerous individuals who have generously supported our mission.

Br. Angelo's departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who have had the privilege of working alongside him, but it also heralds the beginning of a new chapter in his life. We extend our heartfelt appreciation and best wishes for a joyous and fulfilling retirement.

Our Lady of Peace Parish Celebrates

The Feast of St. Anthony

Our Lady of Peace Church in Brooklyn continued its tradition of wonderful feasts with the Feastday of St. Anthony.  Solemn Mass was celebrated by Fr. Patrick Boyle, Provincial Vicar, followed by a procession through the streets of Brooklyn.  There was much celebration as this has become a great tradition for the parish.  Crosss Currents- Diocese of Brooklyn.  Fr. Orlando Ruiz is rthe pastor of Our Ldy of Peace, assisted by Fr. Octavio Salinas and Br. John-Michael Pinto.  The Red Mike Festival Band also performed at the Brooklyn feast.

Currents News , a Catholic online news source used by the Diocese of Brooklyn, posted this news item on the Feast of St. Anthony celebrated at Our Lady of Peace Church, Brooklyn, New York.  The celebrant of the principal noontime Mass was Fr. Patrick Boyle, O.F.M., Provincial Vicar.  The news item features comments from Fr. Orlando Ruiz, O.F.M., Pastor, and long-time parishioners.  This is the link to the youtube video: (copy and paste)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzvz6e6ISDw

Saint Anthony Feast Returns to NYC

After an absence of several years, St. Anthony Church in Manhattan planned a three-day celebration of the Feast of St. Anthony on June 11, 12, and 13.  The original plan was to have a music concert in the church on June 11, a food festival on June 12, and traditional Masses and solemn procession through the streets of Manhattan on June 13, the Feastday of St. Anthony.  The weather was not cooperative for the food festival, so this was moved to coincide with the religious activities on June 13.

The concert consisted of the a-cappela vocal group “Khorikos”, which has been using St. Anthony’s as its rehearsal site for many years, as well as two soloists who performed a variety of religious music.  

Anna Pittiglio, music minister from St. Peter Church in Woodbridge, Ontario, sang the opening song, “The Lord’s Prayer” by Malotte.  This was followed by Khorikos singing “Ave Verum” by Mozart, and music by Durufle and Hildegard, as well as some Marian hymns. Anna sang “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring”, “Panis Angelicus” among others.  Christine Sperry, cantor at St. Anthony’s, also sang some hymns.  Accompaniment was provided by Fr. Joe Lorenzo, OFM, on the beautiful Jardin 1888 pipe organ.

Food was provided on June 13 in the parish parking lot with local restaurants like Peppe Rosso and Song e Napule providing food booths. The Solemn Mass was held at 6:30 PM followed by a procession through the streets, accompanied by the Red Mike Festival Band.  Hundreds of people attended the events and it was a great reminder of the tradition of St. Anthony Feasts at the parish.  Fr. Michael Corcione, Pastor of St. Anthony’s, and his staff deserve congratulations on what we are sure will be a new era of growth for the parish.  

Fr. Joe Lorenzo and Anna Pittiglio rehearsing for their concert.

Khorikos has been part of St. Anthony's for 13 years, have performed many concerts and provided some of the music for special celebrations.

JULY BIRTHDAYS

Take time to wish our brothers a Happy Birthday!

John Bucchino - July 2nd - (78)

Albert Gauci - July 7th - (76)

Joseph LaGressa - July 10th - (75)

Francis Walter- July 13th- (73)

Kevin Leonel Flores Godoy - July 22 (27)

Michael Corcione - July 23rd - (62)

Jose Alvin Te - July 25th - (49)

Primo Piscitello - July 27th - (89)

Claude Scrima - July 28th - (89) 

Closing of the Marian Month

the Instituto San Francisco,

Tegucigalpa Honduras

May 30, 2023

Fr. Rafael Fernandez, O.F.M.

The Instituto San Francisco marked the ending of May- the month of Mary, on May 30 and 31 at the Basilica of Our Lady of Suyapa in Tegucigalpa, with the students from Primary and Secondary grades. We celebrate with the Bilingual Section from Kinder to 9* Grade. It was a Wonderful and Jubilant Celebration of our students, teachers and Religious.

CORPUS CHRISTI IN ATACO

TRANSITIONS

Friar Matthew Mancino has left the Post-novitiate program and returned home. We wish Matthew all the best.

The Provincial Definitorium approved Br. Marco Antonio Gomez Garcia's petition for Solemn Profession and Ordination to the Diaconate.

Fr. Provincial has approved the renewal of vows for our friars in formation. Fr. Antonio Riccio has been delegated to receive their vows on June 29. .