September 1, 2023

Dear Companion of St. Anthony:

Peace and all good.  Oftentimes we are asked to pray for vocations, and so we should.  We have that saying that there is strength in numbers.  It is a reality that vocations to religious life have generally declined in recent years.  However, the membership Franciscan Friars Conventual has, through the grace of God, not seen any significant decrease.  Most certainly our numbers have decreased in North America, but the good news our order is growing in India, Africa, and in South America.  These former mission lands are bearing fruit in vibrant Catholic areas!  

We still must maintain our prayers for an increase in vocations to religious life in our world.  The Franciscan mission spirit is strong in our friars and in our Companions.  St. Anthony was a tireless preacher of the Word of God.  Even toward the end of his life when he retreated to live in a tree house made for him in a time of a recovery from illness, Anthony continued to preach and teach to the many people who sought his spiritual care.  These are the great values of our Franciscan evangelization mission.

Once again, thank you for supporting us as a Companion of St. Anthony.  I am touched by your generosity and all your prayerful support.

In Christ and St. Anthony,

Fr. Richard-Jacob Forcier, OFM Conv.

Spiritual Guardian, Companions of St. Anthony

Director and Rector, Shrine of St. Anthony