The Guardians of the Friaries of the Our Lady of the Angels Province

A modern Provincial Chapter is reminiscent of the 1221 version when St. Francis called more than 3,000 friars to the Portiuncula chapel in Assisi for a general meeting or “Chapter of Mats.” At that time, the friars lived in huts made out of reeds and brought their sleeping mats with them, to the area surrounding the chapel so as to have a place to sit. Modern day friars, instead, do meet in a conference center and get to sit on actual chairs. It is however still thought of as a coming together as a family, offering witness of brotherhood and celebrating Franciscan life. Days are filled with meetings, presentations as well as the much needed work of organizing the general needs of the friars and ministries of the Province. It is also a time to just enjoy Franciscan Brotherhood. Upon the formation of the Our Lady of the Angels Province, two Chapters took place in May and August of 2014. As we friars proceed in our ministries, we ask for your continued prayers and we thank you for your ever present support.

Bishop Richard J. Malone, of the Diocese of Buffalo Presided over the Votive Mass for Peace and Justice, served by Friar Nader Ata, OFM Conv.

Many of our friars, celebrating 2014 Profession and Ordination Jubilee Years, were on hand for a Special Jubilarian Celebration