On Wednesday, September 30, 2020, our brother, Friar Roderick Crispo, O.F.M., former Provincial Minister of our beloved province, passed into eternal life at the age of 92. Roderick was currently stationed at the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, where he was Spiritual Director, and was officially assigned to St. Christopher Friary in Boston. He was born on May 30, 1928 in Watervliet, New York. He made his first profession of vows in 1948, and was ordained to the priesthood on June 19, 1955. After ordination, Roderick served the province in various ministries, including pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Church in New York City and Our Lady of Peace Church in Brooklyn, NY. In 1989, Roderick was elected Provincial Minister, and served in that position for six years.

"Friars must remember to offer suffrages for every deceased friar of the province, professed or novice. In particular, each priest shall offer the Eucharist twice. When news of the death of a friar is received, a concelebrated Mass in his memory should be scheduled in the friaries of the province and the foundations. On the thirtieth day after and on the first anniversary of the death of a confrere, professed or novice, the Eucharist shall be celebrated for him in the house to which he was assigned at the time of death." (PS-8, 1-3)

Heavenly Father, we commend to your mercy Friar Roderick and all our brothers who have embraced Sister Death and we thank you for the gift of their lives. United in faith and prayer, through the intercession of our Immaculate Mother Mary and our holy Father Saint Francis, keep us ever steadfast in your love as we strive for your vision of a world made new.

Fraternally, Joe Lorenzo, OFM Provincial Secretary