The Franciscan Friars Conventual are saddened to announce that our brother, + Friar Joseph Bayne, OFM Conv., was embraced by Sister Death late on the evening of Friday, June 23.
Fr. Joe, as he was known, ministered for three decades in the Diocese of Buffalo as executive director of The Franciscan Center, while also serving as chaplain for the Erie County Department of Emergency Services. His most recent assignment was as the associate director of Formation for our Postulancy Program, located in Chicago.
“The friars woke up today to the unexpected news of the loss of our brother, Joe,” said Fr. Michael Heine, OFM Conv., Minister Provincial of the Our Lady of the Angels Province of which Fr. Joe was a member. “Right now, the friars are in mourning.”
We know that our good Fr. Joe was beloved by many, who will want to pay their respects. We ask your patience as arrangements are made Details will be announced as soon as they are finalized.
Pope Francis greets Fr. Robert Twele, OFM Conv., Esq., at the Vatican.
Fr. Robert Twele, OFM Conv. Esq., was asked by Caritas International to join a small group of professionals to overhaul and write new statutes for this important charity agency. It has involved several trips to Rome, and countless hours spent writing and rewriting documents that were eventually signed off by Pope Francis. Fr. Robert was present in mid-May during the Caritas General Assembly. Thank you, Fr. Robert, for making OLA proud!
In 2023, on the 79th anniversary of the untimely passing of Fr. Maternowski, former Minister Provincial Father James McCurry, who knows this story well and has visited France countless times, talks about the legacy of Fr. Maternowski.
Anyone ages 13-18 can participate! Each person should be associated with a parish, school, or campus ministry group. Each ministry needs to send chaperones to accompany its group: one adult for every 12 young people. The retreat is limited to 150 participants, so register early! What can I expect? This retreat is intended for young men and women, who would like to grow in their faith, learn more about the Franciscan tradition, connect with other young people, and have a fun weekend away on retreat.
On the ninth anniversary of the founding of Our Lady of the Angels Province (May 5, 2014), our former minister provincial, Fr. James McCurry, OFM Conv., offers a Marian reflection and reminisces about a simple prayer he developed at the request of St. Mother Teresa.
Fr. Michael Martin, OFM Conv., pastor of St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church in Jonesboro, Ga., talks about gratitude and generosity during an appearance on Relevant Radio.
