When I look back on how God led me to become a Franciscan friar, I can trace it to a simple invitation after Sunday Mass.
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where my family attended a Franciscan parish. Like many young people, I was searching for direction and trying to understand what God wanted for my life. I faithfully attended Mass each week, never imagining where those Sundays would eventually lead.
One day, after Mass, one of the friars invited me to join him for dinner.
“At the time, I thought it was simply an invitation to share a meal. Looking back, I realize it was the beginning of something much greater.”
That simple invitation opened the door to something I hadn’t expected. During that meal, we talked about faith, life, and the Franciscan vocation. More importantly, I experienced the warmth and genuine care of the Franciscan community. As I spent more time with the friars, I was drawn not only to their way of life but also to the joy they found in serving others. Their commitment to prayer, fraternity, and ministry showed me that following Christ meant living for something greater than myself.
Discovering God’s call
Over time, what began as curiosity slowly became a calling.
Discerning a vocation isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes prayer, patience, and a willingness to listen for God’s voice. Throughout that journey, I was grateful to have Franciscan friars who encouraged me, answered my questions, and walked alongside me as I considered religious life.
Today, that journey has brought me to Rome, where I am studying Philosophy as part of my formation to become a Franciscan friar.
Preparing for a lifetime of service
Formation is about much more than academics. It is a time of spiritual growth, prayer, community life, and preparing to serve God’s people wherever I may be called.
“Studying in Rome is helping me grow not only in knowledge, but also in faith and in my desire to serve others.”
Preparing future friars requires years of education and formation. Through St. Anthony’s Burse, Franciscan Mission Associates helps provide room, board, meals, textbooks, and other essentials that allow men like me to focus on answering God’s call. The generosity of supporters makes it possible for us to continue our studies while growing in our vocation.
Thank you for making this vocation possible
As I reflect on the path that brought me from Brooklyn to Rome, I am reminded that God often works through ordinary moments and the kindness of others. One invitation after Mass helped me discover the vocation that has shaped my life.
Today, I am deeply grateful for everyone who supports the formation of future Franciscan friars through Franciscan Mission Associates.
Your generosity is an investment in the future of our Franciscan mission. As friars are formed to serve parishes, schools, missions, and communities around the world, your support becomes part of every life they will one day touch.
Please know that I keep all of our benefactors in my prayers. Thank you for believing in young men who are discerning God’s call and for helping us prepare to serve God’s people with the spirit of St. Francis.
About Formation
Franciscan priests and brothers follow in the footsteps of the Lord Jesus and St. Francis. They accept the gift of poverty as a way of life. They have nothing of their own but share equally as brothers whatever God provides through your generosity.
To educate and support a seminarian in his studies costs more than $10,000 a year. Show your support for our Franciscan Brothers by making a donation today.
Thank you, and God bless.
