Picture Gallery

On Saturday, May 30, 2026, Brother Lazarus Travis made his First Profession of Vows in the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The profession ceremony took place during the Celebration of the Eucharist at Saint Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania. The Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, TOR, Minister Provincial presided at the Mass and received Brother Lazarus' vows. Novice Director Father David Dodd, TOR delivered the homily. Family members, friends and friars from the Province were also present.

During the vow ceremony, Brother Lazarus makes the following promise:

To the praise and glory of the Most Holy Trinity,
I, Brother Lazarus Travis, moved by divine inspiration to follow more
closely the Gospel and the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ,
before the brothers here present, into your hands, Father Joseph,
with firm faith and will: vow to God the Father, Holy and Almighty,
to live for three years in obedience, in poverty and in chastity, and
promise faithfully to observe the life and Rule of the Brothers and
Sisters of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis of Assisi, confirmed
by Pope Saint John Paul II, according to the Constitutions of the same Order.

I therefore commit myself totally with all my heart to this Fraternity,
so that, through the operation of the Holy Spirit, the example of
Mary Immaculate, the intercession of our Father Francis and of all
the Saints, and the help of my brothers, I may achieve the perfection
of charity in the service of God, of the Church and of all people.

LR: Fr. David Dodd,TOR,  Director of Novices, Bro. Lazarus Travis, TOR,
Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, TOR, Minister Provincial, Fr. Vincent Yeager, Director of Formation.

Picture Gallery

On Friday, May 30, 2026, three postulants received the habit of initiation and were admitted into the Novitiate of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The reception took place during evening prayer at Saint Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania. As stated in our Statutes, "The religious habit is a distinctive sign of our religious consecration and the brotherhood we share." 

In addition to the habit, those admitted to the Novitiate also received a religious name signifying a deepening of their baptismal calling. The new novices are Kevin Parker (Bro. James Mary Parker, TOR), Bruce Dexter (Bro. John Joseph Dexter, TOR) and John Lodato (Bro. Nicodemus Mary Lodato, TOR). 

During the ceremony the Minister Provincial asks the candidates -  "Brothers, what do you ask of us?"  The brothers respond with the following:

Moved by divine inspiration I wish to share your life
in the brotherhood of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, I
earnestly ask to be clothed with the habit of probation. Test me that
I may learn how to take on my shoulders the yoke of the Lord in
love and joy for the perfect following of Christ according to the
example of St. Francis the poor, humble lover of the cross.

The purpose of the novitiate is to help the novice more fully understand the essential demands of the vocation to which he feels called so that he may live the evangelical counsels according to our charism. The experience of living the spirit of penance will strengthen his heart and mind and his intention to persevere in his vocation. (cf can 646).

The novices “led by the Lord, should begin a life of penance, conscious that all of us must be continuously and totally converted to the Lord.” (TOR Rule, art. 6) They should be gradually taught to renounce, according to the holy Gospel, all which does not look to the reign of God. With the help of the Director they should gradually be introduced to fraternal life. They should be formed in evangelical life by the counsels of obedience, chastity and poverty, and also educated in the practice of humility, the life of prayer and the way of listening to the promptings of the Spirit. (GC 46-47)

LR: Fr. David Dodd, TOR Director of Novices, Bro. James Mary Parker, TOR, Bro. John Joseph Dexter, TOR,
Bro. Nicodemus Mary Lodato, TOR, Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, TOR, Minister Provincial

Obituary – Fr. Bernie Tickerhoof, TOR

Father Bernard Francis “Bernie” Tickerhoof, TOR was greeted by Sister Death on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at age 75. The son of David and Magdalen Ann (Ruth) Tickerhoof, Fr. Bernie grew up in Johnstown, PA the youngest of four children. After graduating from Bishop McCort High School in 1968, he joined the Franciscans as a postulant and professed solemn vows five years later. After earning a Master of Divinity at St. Francis Seminary, he was ordained to the priesthood on May 13, 1978.

As a Franciscan priest, Father Bernie thoroughly enjoyed retreat ministry serving at various retreat centers for over 30 years. They included the Franciscan Renewal Center in Winchester, VA (1981 – 1990); the Burning Bush House of Prayer in Pittsburgh, PA (1990 – 1992); and the Franciscan Spirit & Life Center in Whitehall, PA (1996 – 2004). The last fourteen years of his life, he continued to provide spiritual direction and travel to give retreats across the U.S. through the Province’s Franciscan Pathways program.

His ministry as a retreat and spiritual director also led to his service as Postulant Director and Novice Director for over ten years. During much of his life, Fr. Bernie was also deeply committed to ministry within the Secular Franciscan Order as a Spiritual Assistant to both local fraternities and the Lady Poverty Region.

In addition to earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Saint Francis College, Fr. Bernie also earned a Master of Theology (ThM) from the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkley, CA and a Doctorate in Ministry (DMin) at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

Fr. Bernie’s life reflected a deep faith, demonstrated through his passion for writing and his tailored holistic spirituality, faith and biblical conversions as well as leadership development. He will be remembered fondly not only for his professional achievements but especially for his deep love for continued learning, which he shared through not only his ministry but storytelling, social justice, ecumenism and interfaith, holistic spirituality and ecological concerns. He authored several books and articles on a variety of topics in spiritual life. His most recent book titled The One Body of Christ in a Quantum Age, published by Orvis Books in 2024, explores the relationship between Christian spirituality, theology and quantum theory. 

Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his sister Ruthayn Tickerhoof, two brothers Gerard Tickerhoof and Fr. David Tickerhoof, TOR, as well as his Franciscan Community.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Saint Francis Friary at Mount Assisi in Loretto, PA. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, at Saint Francis Friary with the Very Reverend Joseph Lehman, TOR, as the principal celebrant. After the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the Saint Francis University campus in Loretto.  If you are attending the funeral services, please click HERE to RSVP.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for the Friars’ Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940. Arrangements are handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641. Online condolences can be left at gibbonsfunerals.com.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Franciscan Priest and Brother Honored as Volunteers of the Year

Two members of the Province, Father Peter Lyons, TOR and Brother Paul McMullen,TOR were recognized for their service at the Federal Correctional Institute in Loretto, PA on April 30, 2026 at the prison’s Annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet. Dual plaques, handmade by inmates, were presented to the friars by Warden Michael C. Underwood. FCI-Loretto has approximately 100 volunteers who serve in various capacities. Twenty-five of them were present for this ceremony.

Fr. Peter and Br. Paul have served there in prison ministry under the supervision of Martin Statler, Prison Chaplain, for several years. Fr. Peter regularly hears confessions and celebrates Mass on Sundays for the Catholic inmates. Br. Paul assists Fr. Peter with religious formation and leads Communion Services when Fr. Peter is unavailable. These services enable the inmates to receive the Eucharist and participate in the Liturgy of the Word, when a priest cannot be present.

Prior to becoming a Federal Correctional Institute, the prison facilities served as the home of St. Francis Seminary. Completed in 1962, the Seminary provided theological education and training for Franciscan friars as well as diocesan priests until it closed in 1979 due to declining enrollment. It was dubbed “The Rock” by Franciscan seminarians because the life there was often rigid and strict. Fr. Peter can attest to this because he was a seminarian there in the 1960s. In the 1970s he returned to the Seminary to teach theology and serve as Rector.

“The Rock” was sold to the Federal government in 1984 who converted it into a federal prison. The nearly 800 inmates who reside there today may find the atmosphere is still often “rigid and strict.” The prison chapel which hosts both Catholic and non-denominational services was once the St. Francis Seminary chapel.

 Fr. Terence Henry, TOR,  a member of the Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at age 77.

_________________________________________________________

Funeral Arrangements:

Viewing - Thursday, March 19th - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Vigil Service - Thursday March 19th - 7:00 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial - Friday, March 20th - 11:00 a.m.

 All services will take place at Saint Francis Friary, 141 St. Francis Drive, Loretto, PA.
                                       For those planning on attending services for Fr. Terry please click on link to RSVP Link :                                          ___________________________________________________________

Fr. Terence “Terry” Henry, TOR, a member of the Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at age 77, in his 59^th year of religious life and 50^th year of priestly ministry. Fr. Terry was born on April 11, 1948, in Philadelphia, PA. After graduating from high school, he attended Saint Francis College, earning a bachelor’s degree in history. He entered the novitiate in 1967, professed Simple Vows in 1968, and Solemn Vows in 1972. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 15, 1976. Fr. Terry earned two master’s degrees, including a Master of Divinity from Saint Francis Seminary in Loretto and a Master of Science in History from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana. 

After his ordination, Fr. Terry began his priestly ministry at Bishop Egan High School in Fairless Hills, PA, where he taught history for sixteen years. He also spent one year as the school’s principal and was the first president after it merged with Bishop Conwell High School in 1993. Following his time at Conwell-Egan Catholic High School, he served as the Postulant Director at Saint Bonaventure Friary and taught at Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA. After four years of directing the postulants, Fr. Terry served as the president of Franciscan University of Steubenville from 2000 to 2013. During his tenure as president, he also served on the Provincial Council as Vicar Provincial, was a member of the Board of Trustees at Saint Francis University, and was a delegate at the 2011 Provincial Chapter. From 2012 to 2015, he served as the local minister of Holy Spirit Friary in Steubenville, OH, followed by two years as the local minister of Queen of Peace Friary in Pittsburgh. Always passionate about education, Fr. Terry then moved to Loretto, where he was a member of the History Department at Saint Francis University before his well-earned retirement in 2018.

Fr. Terry’s life reflected a deep, unwavering faith, demonstrated through his compassion as a priest and his dedication to education. His warm personality shone through not only in his work as an educator but also as a priest, friend, and mentor. Fr. Terry will be remembered fondly not only for his professional achievements but especially for his great love of nature, as he enjoyed hiking, camping, outdoor activities, and orienteering. He also connected this passion to his delivery of a memorable homily, where he challenged the congregation to embrace God’s love as the guiding compass in their spiritual journey. One of his favorite authors was G. K. Chesterton, and he often included quotes from him in his homilies and letters. Because of this, we believe he would approve of the following inclusion.

Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live, taking the form of a readiness to die. “He that will lose his life, the same shall save it,” is not a piece of mysticism for saints and heroes. It is a piece of everyday advice for sailors or mountaineers.” (G. K. Chesterton, Orthodoxy (Colorado Springs: Waterbrook, 2001 [1908]), 136–37 (ch. 6)).

Fr. Terry was also a passionate sports fan, especially of any Philadelphia team, and those close to him note that he was outspoken and lively about his politics. Many will remember his signature greeting of “Hey, big guy,” always with a smile. He will be deeply missed. 

Fr. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Sara “Sally” (Fitzpatrick) Henry. He is survived by his brother, Thomas “Tuk” (wife, Terri) Henry; sister, Kathy (husband, Bud) Dawson; sister, Margie (husband, John) Jenkins; friends, and his Franciscan Community. Fr. Terry was also a beloved uncle and great-uncle to all of his nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Saint Francis Friary at Mount Assisi in Loretto, PA. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Saint Francis Friary with the Very Reverend Joseph Lehman, TOR, as the principal celebrant. After the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the Saint Francis University campus in Loretto.

Instead of flowers, memorial contributions for the Friars’ Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940. Arrangements are handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641. Online condolences can be left at gibbonsfunerals.com.

Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Pope Leo Declares a Special Year of St. Francis of Assisi 

On January 10, 2026, Pope Leo XIV proclaimed a Special Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi to commemorate the 8th centenary of the saint’s death on October 3, 1226. The observance runs through January 10, 2027 and includes the opportunity for the faithful to obtain a plenary indulgence.

During the Special Jubilee Year, Catholics may obtain a plenary indulgence by fulfilling the usual conditions:

• Make a sacramental Confession within 20 days before or after the day the indulgence is sought
• Receive Holy Communion on that day (or within 20 days before or after)
• Pray for the intentions of the Holy Father followed by reciting one Our Father and one Hail Mary
• Visit in the form of a pilgrimage any Franciscan conventual church or a place of worship dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi or connected to him for any reason, and there spend a reasonable period of time in pious meditation; and following the example of Saint Francis, raise prayers to God for Christian charity towards ones neighbours and that harmony and peace may spring forth in the hearts of all people. Then conclude with the Our Father, the Creed and invocations to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare and all the Saints of the Franciscan Family.
• These practices should accompany a sincere turning toward God as well as a deeper participation in the sacramental life of the Church.

St. Francis of Assisi is the founder of the Franciscan family of religious orders which includes the Third Order Regular. His life of conversion, poverty, and devotion to Christ continues to inspire Franciscans today, calling them and the faithful to humility, repentance, and faith in Jesus Christ. For all of these reasons, St. Francis remains one of the most influential saints in Church history. 

 “I have done what was mine to do. May Christ teach you what is yours.”

 — Words of St. Francis of Assisi shortly before he died.

 Pope Leo wrote the following prayer for this Special Jubilee Year:

Saint Francis, our brother, you who eight hundred years ago
went to meet Sister Death as a man at peace,
intercede for us with the Lord.

In the Crucifix of San Damiano you recognized true peace,
teach us to seek in Him the source of all reconciliation
that breaks down every wall.

You who, unarmed, crossed the lines of war
and misunderstanding,
give us the courage to build bridges
where the world erects borders,

In this time plagued by conflict and division, 
intercede so that we may become peacemakers:
unarmed and disarming witnesses of the peace that comes from Christ.

Amen.

 The Most Reverend Nicholas Polichnowski, T.O.R., a member of the TOR Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the age of 75, in his 51st year of religious life. Fr. Nicholas was born on September 30, 1950, in Pittsburgh. After graduating from high school, Fr. Nicholas attended West Virginia University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in biology. He entered the Order in 1973 as a postulant, professed Simple Vows in 1974, and was ordained to the priesthood on November 15, 1977. He earned two master’s degrees, including a Master of Divinity from Saint Francis Seminary in Loretto and a Master of Science in Chemistry from St. Joseph University in Philadelphia.

Following his ordination, Fr. Nicholas served one year in Brazil as a missionary. He began his priestly ministry teaching high school chemistry for nearly fifteen years at three institutions: Saint Francis Preparatory School in Spring Grove, PA; Bishop Egan High School in Fairless Hills, PA; and the United Nations International School in New York City. He also spent two years in the Republic of South Africa serving as a missionary. After his years as a high school chemistry teacher, his love for science motivated him to pursue a master’s degree in nursing from Pace University and a Ph.D. in nursing from Johns Hopkins University.

In 2008, after completing his doctoral work, Fr. Nicholas taught nursing at Franciscan University of Steubenville until he was elected Minister Provincial in 2011. Eighteen months later, he was elected Minister General of the Third Order Regular, a position he held for six years. Following this role, owing to his dual citizenship, he stayed in Europe and resumed teaching nursing at Franciscan University’s campus in Gaming, Austria. In 2023, he returned to Loretto to teach nursing online for Saint Francis University and used his medical experience and education to support our elderly friars.

Fr. Nicholas’ life was a testament to a deep, abiding faith, expressed through his compassion as both a nurse and a priest. His caring nature and unwavering generosity shone through not only in his work as a nurse but also as a priest, friend, mentor, and all who knew him.

Fr. Nicholas was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Frances (Martini) Polichnowski. He is survived by his brother, Ronald (Carol) Polichnowski; niece, Stephanie (Cameron) Martin; great nephews Ben and Cody Martin; cousins: Dolores and Paulette Parento, Timothy Park; friends, and his Franciscan Community. 

Instead of flowers, memorial offerings for the Friars’ Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940.

Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace.  Amen.

Picture Gallery Entrance Day

On the afternoon of Saturday, August 16th, three new men arrived in Loretto, PA, at Bonaventure Hall, to begin their time as Postulants in the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.  Postulancy is a nine month period where men are introduced to religious life, initiated into Franciscan spirituality, and concentrate on human development. During this time, postulants live at Saint Bonaventure Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania and may take classes at Saint Francis University or online at Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH. Most postulants take two courses each semester, which might include philosophy, religious studies, or pastoral ministry, and they are engaged in a weekly volunteer ministry. Brother Matthew Aubin, T.O.R. is the Director of Postulants.

L/R: Brother Matthew Aubin, T.O.R, Director of Postulants, John Lodato, Bruce Dexter, Kevin Parker

2025 Jubilee Photo Gallery

The friars of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, celebrated the anniversaries of Religious Profession and Ordination during their recent Summer Gathering & Retreat. Fr. Christopher Dobson, T.O.R., marked his 50th Anniversary of Religious Profession. Fr. Jonathan St. Andre, T.O.R., and Fr. Seraphim Beshoner, T.O.R., celebrated their 25^th Anniversaries of Religious Profession, while Fr. Michael Ciski, T.O.R., commemorated his 25th Anniversary of Ordination.

Fr. Chris is currently the Director of Eldercare for our retired friars living at St. Francis Friary in Loretto. He also oversees music ministry on Sundays at Saint Francis University and is the Director of Music for the Franciscan Community. Fr. Jonathan serves as Vice President of Franciscan Life at Franciscan University of Steubenville (OH). He recently earned a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Dayton, focusing on Leadership in Organizations. For the past two years, Fr.  Michael has been the Pastor of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Colleyville, TX. Before that, he served as Pastor at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Arlington, TX. In June, Fr. Seraphim completed six years on the Order’s General Council in Rome, where he served as General Secretary of the Third Order Regular Franciscans.

The jubilee celebration occurred during Mass on Thursday, July 17, in the Immaculate Conception Chapel at Saint Francis University. The Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial, presided over the Mass, and Fr. Jonathan St. Andre, T.O.R., was the homilist.

L/R - Fr. Jonathan St. Andre, Fr. Chris Dobson, Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, Fr. Michael Ciski, Fr. Seraphim Beshoner.

The 113^th General Chapter of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis was held in Rome at the Ss. Cosmas and Damian, the motherhouse of the Order from May 28th - June 10th.  Friar delegates from Provinces and Vice-Provinces throughout the world attended the Chapter to elect a Minister General and General Council to review the life of the Order and prepare a vision for the next six years.

During the Chapter, His Eminence Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization presented a talk on Franciscan leadership, Biblical elements of leadership, and synodality (or walking with God).

On June 6^th, the Chapter delegates were able to attend an audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican.   Pope Leo said the themes the delegates were addressing relate to the entire people of God, notably, community life, formation, and vocations. He encouraged them to consider these three elements in light of their “penitential” charism, since their own roots date back to the time of St. Francis of Assisi.

The election of the Minister General took place on Pentecost Sunday.   The Most Rev. Amando Trujillo Cano was re-elected to service as Minister General for the next 6 years.

On Saturday, May 14, 2025, Bro. Moses (Michael) Herrmann, TOR, and Bro. Stephen Philip Callon, TOR, professed Simple Vows into the hands of the Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, TOR, Minister Provincial, of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, in a ceremony in the chapel at St. Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania. Bro. Michael has decided to take "Moses" as his religious name. The two newly professed friars will continue their formation at Holy Spirit Friary in Steubenville, Ohio under the direction of Fr. Vincent Yeager, T.O.R., Director of Formation.

L/R - Very Rev. Malachi VanTassell, T.O.R, Homilist, Bro. Moses Herrmann, T.O.R., Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, Minister Provincial,
Bro. Stephen Philip Callon, Fr. David Dodd, T.O.R., Director of Novices.

Mr. Maximilian Travis was invested as a novice in the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, in a ceremony held during evening prayer on Friday, May 23, 2025, in St. Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania. As part of the ceremony he took the name of "Lazarus" for his religious name. Bro. Lazarus will continue to live at St. Bonaventure Friary  in Loretto for his novitiate year under the direction of Father David Dodd, T.O.R., Director of Novices. Please keep him in your prayers

L/R - Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial, novice Bro. Lazarus Travis, T.O.R., Fr. David Dodd, T.O.R., Director of novices

Photo Gallery

On July 12, 2024, Brother Matthew Aubin, T.O.R., made his solemn profession of vows in the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis.  The profession ceremony took place in the Saint Francis Friary Chapel in Loretto, Pennsylvania, during the 2024 Province Gathering.  The Very Rev. Joseph L. Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial, received Brother Matthew's vows.  Father Shawn Roberson was the homilist for the Profession Mass.

Brother Matthew is from Ellington, CT and prior to his internship at Saint Francis University, he received a Masters Degree in Social Work from the Catholic University of America.

Brother Matthew completed an internship at Saint Francis University during the 2023-2024 school year, working in Campus Ministry and the Dorothy Day Outreach Center sponsored by the University.  In the Fall, Brother Matthew will become the new director of the Dorothy Day Outreach Center.

I, Brother Matthew Aubin, moved by divine inspiration to follow more
closely the Gospel and the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ, before the
brothers here present, into your hands, Father Joseph , with firm faith and
will: vow to God the Father, Holy and Almighty, to live for the whole of
my life in obedience, in poverty and in chastity, and promise faithfully to
observe the life and Rule of the Brothers and Sisters of the Third Order
Regular of Saint Francis of Assisi, confirmed by Pope Saint John Paul
II, according to the Constitutions of the same Order.

Father Julio Rivero, T.O.R., 96, a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, in his 60^th year of religious life died on Friday, July 11, 2025 at St. Francis Friary-Mt. Assisi in Loretto. 

After Father Julio was ordained in 1969, he began a 19-year educational teaching career which included Bishop Egan High School in Fairless Hills, Saint Francis Preparatory School in Spring Grove, and Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio.  Fr. Julio transitioned into parochial ministry for almost two decades in Florida ministering in several dioceses and parishes with his parochial and healing ministry.  His served at Saint Mary Our Lady of Grace as a parochial vicar and then as a chaplain at Saint Petersburg Catholic High School.  He moved briefly for a year to Clearwater, Florida to be the Chaplain of House of Prayer before his ministry at Saint John’s Church in St. Petersburg Beach, and Sacred Heart Parish in Bradenton.  Fr. Julio completed his ministry at Saint Andrew’s Church in Fort Worth, Texas for a year before coming back to Mt. Assisi in Loretto to start his retirement in 2016. 

Fr. Julio had a love music, especially Gregorian Chant and playing the organ which led him to receiving a bachelor’s degree in music education from Columbia University.  He was well versed in Spanish earning Master’s Degrees in both Spanish and a Bilingual Education. Fr. Julio also published a book called: Encounters with the Holy Spirit: Memoirs of a Priest.  Fr. Julio will be greatly missed with his deep vocation of love, spiritual insights and gifts he so freely shared with all those who came to him in need of the Lord’s healing touch.

Born in New York City he is preceded in death by his parents, Rogelio and Carmen (Blanco) Rivero as well as his seven brothers: Gilbert, Edwardo, Rogelio, George, Anselmo, Raymond, Ricardo and two sisters: Adela and Iluminada. He is survived by his niece, Candida Navedo, numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, cousins and his Franciscan Community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings for the Friars’ Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940.  A complete obituary and link to view the funeral services live can be found at franciscanstor.org.  Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641. Online condolences can be made by visiting gibbonsfunerals.com.

I

Father Ronald Mohnickey, T.O.R., a member of the TOR Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the age of 82 in his 58th year of religious life.  Fr. Ronald was born September 18, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduating from St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in history at Cleveland State University.  He entered the TOR Novitiate in 1966, professed Simple Vows in 1967 and Solemn Vows in 1970. He earned a master’s degree from John Carroll University as well as a master’s in divinity from St. Francis Seminary in Loretto. Fr. Ronald was ordained a priest on May 15, 1971 by Bishop James Hogan at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona. 

 Following his ordination, Fr. Ronald started his priestly ministry teaching history and theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio and Saint Francis College in Loretto for a total of six years. Fr. Ronald also embraced many additional roles throughout his ministerial career including parochial vicar, director of novices and campus minister and he was fortunate to experience different geographic areas like Virginia, western Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas and Gaming, Austria, where he served for nine years. Upon his return from Gaming, he was assigned as the Parochial Vicar at Good Shepherd Catholic Community in Colleyville, Texas where he served the parish and community for eight years before returning to Saint Francis Friary in Loretto in 2023 to start his retirement journey. 

 Throughout his life, Fr. Ronald had a love of music, especially the organ, which he played for many years.  In his spare time, he also liked to find new adventures in travelling.  He was well loved by all who met him with his witty sense of humor.  He was able to spend most of his retirement with his brother friars at Saint Francis Friary, before his health declined and he was in hospice care at Hilltop Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Altoona.

 Fr. Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Catherine (Gruss) Mohnickey.  He was born on September 18, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, and is survived by his brothers Andrew and John and sisters Audrey Johnston and Rita Rawlings along with nephews, Jonathan and Mark Mohnickey, Walter and Andrew Johnston; nieces Courtney Mohnickey, Diane Beaver, Bonnie and Kelly Johnston and Anna Illieunelli along with numerous great nieces, nephews, cousins and his Franciscan Community.

 Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Sunday, June 15, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Saint Francis Friary, located at Mount Assisi in Loretto, PA. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025, at St. Francis Friary at Mount Assisi with the Reverend Patrick Whittle, T.O.R., as principal celebrant. Following the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the campus of Saint Francis University, Loretto.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings for the Fr. Ronald Mohnickey Scholarship Fund (for seminarian education) can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940. Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641. Online condolences can be made by visiting gibbonsfunerals.com

 Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Father David William Kraeger, T.O.R., a member of the TOR Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 84 in his 63rd year of religious life.

 Fr. David was born November 23, 1940, in Lowville, New York. After graduating from Port Leyden High School, New York, he studied philosophy at Wadhams Hall Minor Seminary in Ogdensburg, New York, and St. Mary Seminary in Baltimore, Maryland. He entered the TOR Novitiate in 1962 and continued his educational journey at St. Francis College in Loretto, where he received a B.A. in Philosophy in 1963. Fr. David professed Simple Vows in 1964 and Solemn Vows in 1967. While earning an S.T.B. from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., he was ordained as a priest by Bishop James Hogan at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona on May 18, 1968. He received an M.A. in Sacred Scripture from St. Louis University, Missouri, in 1974.

 Following his ordination, Fr. David showed his love of education by teaching a vast array of students at Bishop Egan High School in Fairless Hills, PA; St. Francis Seminary and St. Francis College in Loretto, PA; and the Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio. After more than 13 years in education, he transitioned from his teaching career and, for the following 31 years, he embraced pastoral work as pastor, parochial vicar, and administrator. His assignments included ministry in South Dakota, Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maryland. After many years in parochial work, Fr. David was assigned to St. Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania.

Throughout his life, Fr. David had a tremendous love of Sacred Scripture and spent much of his time studying the Bible and reading commentaries. He was also an avid record collector, mostly of classical music, and a huge fan of British mystery movies. Unfortunately, due to declining health issues, he spent the last year of his retirement at Maybrook Hills Rehabilitation & Health Care Facility in Altoona, Pennsylvania. He was able to spend the last few weeks of his life with his fellow friars at Saint Francis Friary, where he received hospice care.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Saint Francis Friary, located at Mount Assisi in Loretto, PA. A Vigil Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at St. Francis Friary at Mount Assisi with the Most Rev. Michael J. Higgins, T.O.R., Vicar Provincial as principal celebrant. Following the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the campus of Saint Francis University, Loretto.

 In place of flowers, memorial offerings for the Friars’ Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940. Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641. Online condolences can be made by visiting gibbonsfunerals.com.

Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Father Francis (Frank) Moyher, T.O.R., 88, a member of the Franciscan Friars Third Order Regular of Saint Francis Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, in his 71st year of religious life and died on Monday, January 27, 2025 at Saint Francis Friary in Loretto, PA.

Following Father Francis’ graduation from Latrobe High School he entered the Franciscan community as a postulant and attended Saint Francis College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy.  He professed solemn vows in 1959 and completed theological studies at St. Francis Seminary and was ordained to the priesthood in May of 1963.  Following his ordination he was assigned to St. Francis Prep School in Spring Grove where he taught Biology, English, and religion for many years.  His love of teaching then led him back school to obtain his Master’s Degree in Biology from Penn State University.  After receiving his Master’s, his focus turned to pastoral ministry.  Over the next several years, he had the opportunity to minister in various parishes throughout the country including Arizona, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and West Virginia, as well as British Columbia, Canada. In 1997 he returned home to Mount Assisi in Loretto, Pennsylvania to start his retirement.

Father Francis was born July 21, 1936 in Hostetter, Pennsylvania, the son of the late John and Mary (Sladbodnick).  Father Francis was the last surviving sibling of thirteen which included eight brothers: John Jr. Charles, Andrew, Joseph, Michael, Paul, Eugene and Stephen and four sisters Mary Disciascio, Helen Short, Theresa Patton and Anna Boerio. He is survived by his beloved niece, Rita Short from Latrobe, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews and his Franciscan Community.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday January 30, 2025 at Saint Francis Friary at Mount Assisi in Loretto beginning at 4 p.m.  A vigil prayer service will be held at 7 p.m.  in the chapel at Saint Francis Friary.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Friary at Mount Assisi with the Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial as principal celebrant and Fr. Peter Lyons, T.O.R. as homilist.

Following the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the campus of Saint Francis University, Loretto.   In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings for the Friar’s Retirement Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940.

Online condolences can be made by visiting Gibbonsfunerals.com. Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641.

 Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Mass of Christian Burial - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - Saint Francis Friary Chapel - Live Stream

June 29, 2024

On Saturday June 29, 2024 Brother Martin J. Zatsick, T.O.R., a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, was called home to the Lord at the age of 75 and after 56 years of religious life . He died at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, due to complications from a subdural hemorrhage.

 After Brother Marty professed solemn vows in 1972, he spent the next ten years serving our friars with his culinary skills in several of our institutions in Pennsylvania and with the formation community in Toronto, Canada. During his time in Canada Marty felt a call to share his ministry in the Province’s foreign mission of Brazil in the Diocese of Borba, about a thousand miles up the Amazon river from the southern coast of the country. Following his time in Brazil he moved on to live and work with our friars in the Republic of South Africa.

He served in the foreign missions for a total of four years. On his return to the United States, Marty accepted a long-term assignment at Saint Mark Church in Lake Andes, South Dakota, where he ministered to the Native American Indians for 16 years. He continued his ministry of helping others when he was assigned as the Director of the Dorothy Day Center in Loretto for four years. He then moved on to Queen of Peace Friary in Pittsburgh in 2016 where he was the Local Minister.  While at Queen of Peace Friary, Marty was widely known for his daily walks around town. He had an amazing talent and desire to connect with people and to assure them of their goodness and God’s love for them. It has been mentioned many times by his brother friars that he was a kind and gentle person with a wonderful sense of humor: “Everyone loved Marty.”

Brother Marty was born on December 18, 1948 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, the son of the late George and Anne Rose (Marino). He is preceded in death by his brother-in-law David L. Smith, Jr. and is survived by his sister, Catherine Smith and brother Edward Zatsick, his nieces Sumer Smith and Kim (Craig) Kerr and their children Kyle, Tera and Hunter, his great grandniece Aubrie Kerr and great grandnephew, Blake Mitten, and numerous relatives and friends.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, July 5, 2024 at Saint Francis Friary at Mount Assisi in Loretto beginning at 4 p.m.  A vigil prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Friary at Mount Assisi with the Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial as principal celebrant. Following the Mass, interment will take place at the Franciscan Friars’ Cemetery on the campus of Saint Francis University in Loretto.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings for the Province’s Eldercare Fund can be made payable to: Franciscan Friars TOR, P.O. Box 500, Loretto, PA 15940.

 A Memorial Service will be held at a later date at Sts. Cosmas and Damian Parish in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

Online condolences can be made by visiting Gibbonsfunerals.com. Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church St., Gallitzin, PA 16641.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Funeral Luncheon Reception - R.S.V.P

PHOTO GALLERY

On Saturday, June 8, 2024, two friars from the Third Order Regular Franciscan, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, were ordained to the priesthood for the Franciscan Community.  The Ordination Mass took place in the Immaculate Conception Chapel on the campus of Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania.  Most Reverend Mark L. Bartchak, bishop of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese presided. 

Both friars entered the Franciscan Third Order Regular in August of 2017 and made their solemn profession of vows in July of 2023.  They did their theological studies at the Catholic University of America.

Father Will Shee will continue his minsitry at the Franciscan Univeristy of Steubenville where he did his deacon internship.  Fr. Kevin Smith will continue his minsitry at Saint Joseph Parish in Herdon, Virginia, where he served as a deacon.

Pictured below from left to right: Father Kevin Smith, T.O.R., Most Reverend Mark L. Bartchak, Very Reverend Joseph Lehman, T.O.R., Minister Provincial and Father William "Will" Shee, T.O.R.

Monday, April 29, 2024

LORETTO, PENNSYLVANIA - In collaboration with the Franciscan University of Steubenville and President Father Dave Pivonka, the Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is excited to announce the Province’s house of studies and priestly formation program are moving from Saint Louis Friary and Catholic University of America in Washington DC, to Franciscan University beginning this fall 2024. The Provincial Council voted unanimously in favor of the move on April 24.

In making this decision, the Provincial Council considered numerous factors including student friar’s formation experience, academic programming, communal life, ministerial opportunities, physical plant facilities, finances, vocation promotion, and more. In addition, with two friars completing their MDiv degrees this May from CUA, the Province will not have any students graduating for at least two more years. For this reason, it was deemed necessary to make this transition now rather than wait another year.

The Vocation Office will also move to Steubenville. While several options for the relocation of this office as well as the housing of our friars in formation were discussed, they are currently still being examined.

Franciscan University of Steubenville, which is internationally recognized for its undergraduate and graduate theology and philosophy programs, recently announced the opening of a PhD in Sacred Theology set to begin in fall 2024. Such programs have attracted the Marians of the Immaculate Conception who recently established a house of studies in Steubenville for Marians in formation enrolled in philosophical and theological studies at Franciscan University. The Diocese of Pittsburgh also now sends its seminarians, who have not yet completed their philosophy requirements, to Franciscan.University. The University has also begun preliminary discussions with other religious orders interested in sending their students there for priestly formation and studies.

As a result, Franciscan University is exploring the possibility of further expanding its curricular programs to include a Master of Divinity or similar degree. In the meantime, the Province will continue to follow and comply with the Program for Priestly Formation to properly prepare our men for all of the canonical requirements for priestly ordination.

Please keep our friars in formation and formators in prayer during this time of transition.