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.
