Postulants Off to a Great Start

Postulant director Fr. Ron Pecci, OFM, (at right) poses with the postulants at St. Bonaventure University in western New York.

Following a week of orientation at St. Paul Friary in Wilmington, Del., postulants Pedro Corces, Jeff Upshaw, John Aherne, and Frank Souza have begun their summer studies at St. Bonaventure University in western New York.

Pedro is attending a course on the history of the Franciscan Order given by Fr. Dominic Monti, OFM. Fr. Dominic is a Franciscan scholar who has taught for many years both at St. Bonaventure and Washington Theological Union. He is also the Vicar Provincial of Holy Name Province.

Jeff, John, and Frank are taking an introductory course on the life of St. Francis with Prof. Mary Meany. The students will also have courses and workshops in other areas such as theology and liturgy.

During their stay at St. Bonaventure University, the postulants will have the opportunity to meet other students from the Franciscan Institute, as well as spend time with the friar community on the campus.

I have great memories of  the two summers I spent at St. Bonaventure University during my early years in formation. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend the summer in a beautiful setting, get to know my classmates, meet other students and friars, as well as learn about the rich heritage of our Franciscan life. One of the highlights of the summer at the university is the feast of St. Bonaventure on July 15, when a large outdoor celebration is usually held.

I wish Pedro, Jeff, John, and Frank all the best as they begin the year!

By Fr. Brian Smail, OFM, Vocation Director