Beginning the Novitiate and Postulancy Years
Conventual Franciscan Novices 2022-2023: Front L-R: Connor Ouly, Colden Fell, Bob Moynihan, Marvin Fernandez Back L-R: Paul Utterback, Andre Miller, Eric Rewa

Beginning the Novitiate and Postulancy Years

After being invested in the Conventual Franciscan habit in their respective Provinces, seven Novices arrived in Arroyo Grande, California, to begin a year of intensive prayer, reflection, and service. Under the direction of Friars Joseph Wood and Marek Stybor, this is the time for them to discern if God is truly calling them to a Franciscan vocation.

L to R: Friar Joseph Bayne, James Muzzey, Adam Wozniak, César Perez, Friar Paul Schneider

On July 6 at the Franciscan House of Studies on Chicago’s North Side, there was a Welcoming Ceremony for our three new Conventual Postulants. While living in a community of working Friars, during the year they will study Franciscan history and spirituality, spend time in daily Mass and prayer, and serve in various ministries in the Chicago area. By next Summer, they will decide if they, too, will move on to a Novitiate Year. The Director of the Postulancy program is Friar Paul Schneider. The Assistant Director is Friar Joseph Bayne.

Please pray for these men as they take their first steps
in the path of St. Francis of Assisi.