It has been my pleasure to serve as Provincial Minister of Immaculate Conception Province for many years—since 1995, in fact.

While I may not have had administration on my mind when I entered the Franciscan vocation, the experience has been deeply rewarding. One of the most wonderful things about the office is the opportunity to witness the fulsome impact of our Franciscan Brothers’ service throughout Central America, North America, and elsewhere in the world. As Provincial Minister, I was able not only to travel to each of our missions and many parishes, but also to become closer to you, our generous supporters at Franciscan Mission Associates (FMA).

Our Province has just elected a new Provincial Minister, Fr. Patrick Boyle, OFM, which means he will also be the new Director at FMA. He brings a wealth of experience and talent to the role, gained through several pastoral assignments in Massachusetts and New York State, and as Vicar Provincial and Secretary of the Province. I will be working closely with Fr. Patrick in the coming months as part of the transition.

Early on, St. Francis recognized the need for leadership, and he periodically gathered the friars to discuss matters vital to the Order and to select leaders. Fr. Patrick will make a fine leader, and I am grateful that he will now have the opportunity to get to know FMA’s supporters as I was able to.

It is thanks to my time as Provincial Minister and Director of FMA that I can bring a deeper understanding of our Province and of our benefactors into the next stage of my Franciscan formation. Your messages, letters, words of encouragement, and your support through prayers and donations inspire every one of my Franciscan Brothers, too.

We are so deeply grateful that you help continue to do Jesus Christ’s work throughout the world.

May God bless you and yours. In the name of Jesus Christ, I thank you.

Fr. Robert, OFM