Activity

Br. Joshua DiMauro, O.S.F.

Brother Joshua, entered Saint Francis Novitiate, Upper Brookville, NY on July 1, 1968, received the Habit of the Franciscan Brothers January 5, 1969, professed First Vows, January 6, 1970, and Professed his Perpetual vows August 14, 1977

Brother Joshua has served and ministered to the community over the years:

1972 B.A. Education (English and Math) St. Francis College
1972-1974 St. Francis Xavier, 5th-8th Grade Music and Math
1974-1984 Teacher St. Anthony’s High School, Smithtown (Math, Chorus)
1979 M.A. Music: University of Notre Dame
1981 Assumed Directorship of St. Anthony’s Chorus (Smithtown)
1983-1984 Post Graduate Choral Conducting and Gregorian Chant: Westminster Choir College (Princeton, NJ)
1984-Present Assistant Principal St. Anthony’s High School, Huntington Student Activities, Prefect of Discipline
1984-1999 Teacher St. Anthony’s High School, So. Huntington (Math)
1984-Present Choral Director St. Anthony’s High School, So. Huntington (Chorus)
1989 Gregorian Chant Studies: Abbaye St. Pierre de Solesmes, France
1990 Gregorian Studies: Catholic University, Washington, D.C.
1998 Italian Language and Culture Studies: Centro Linguistico Dante Alighieri, Firenze, Italia
1999 Italian Language and Culture Studies: Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (Roma, Italia)
1999-Present General Council of the Franciscan Brothers, Secretary General Board of Trustees, St. Anthony’s High School Board of Trustees, St. Francis Prep
2016-Present Board of Trustees, Maria Regina Residence Nursing Home

Brothers talents and gifts can be seen throughout our community's celebrations and festivities.

When asked why Brother decided to join the Brothers:

In the 5th and 6th Grade I attended Summer Camp Savio conducted by the Salesian Brothers, and at Bishop Ford High School I was taught by the Franciscan Brothers. From an early age, as a member of the Dominic Savio Club, I desired to serve God as a Religious and I had a fervor for teaching. The Franciscan Brothers embodied both of my passions.
I have been teaching at Saint Anthony’s for 40 years. Ministering as Assistant Principal for Student Activities and Prefect of Discipline for Freshmen. During my first 25 years I taught Math and have been Moderator of the Student Council for the past 41 years.
Currently I conduct the 600 voice Chorus and the 80 voice Gregorian Chant Schola.

I love St. Anthony’s because it embodies so many hallmarks of an 800 year old tradition of Franciscan Education.

Below is a sample of Brother Joshua and his Chorus from St. Anthony's High School, besides his concerts at St. Anthony's, his chorus has sung for several Popes and in several Countries.

Br. Roman Morris, O.S.F.

Brother Roman was born in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn on September 9, 1932, the third youngest of ten children of George Raymond Morris and Anna Katherine McGuire. Brother Roman attended St. Theresa of Avila Elementary School along with all his brothers and sisters. He was taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph in the lower grades and then by the Xaverian Brothers in the upper grades, graduating with the class of 1947.

He attended St. Francis Prep on Baltic Street and graduated with the class of 1951. While at the Prep, he was worked at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden where he developed his life long passion for gardening. It was during this time that he made the decision to become a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn, having been influenced by Brothers Benignus, Timothy, and other the Brothers that he met during and after school. In July, 1951, Brother Roman entered the St. Bonaventure Postulancy in Kings Park under the guidance of Brother Urban and Brother Aquinas. He received the habit at St. Paul's Church on Court Street, Brooklyn on February 3, 1952 and then began his novitiate at St. Francis Novitiate in Wyandanch, NY, professing first vows on January 24, 1954.

After profession, Brother Roman was assigned to St. Mary, Star of the Sea located in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn while living at the Monastery of St. Francis on Butler Street (Brother's father was educated by the Franciscan Brothers at this same school and graduated in 1903). During this era, the Monastery housed the Brothers on the faculties of St. Francis College, St. Francis Prep, St Patrick, and St Mary's as well as the retired Brothers. Brother Roman also taught at St. Brigid's, St. Francis Xavier, St. Joseph's in Babylon, and St. Aidan's in Williston Park. In 1965, he was assigned to Bishop Ford High School where he taught English and maintained the bookstore for ten years. Brother Roman, like many of the brothers of his day, spent numerous summers working at Camp St. Anthony, Camp Alvernia, and teaching reading at St. Joseph's in Babylon. From 1973 to 1975, he resided at the pre-novitiate house in Bay Ridge and then he served as Novice Director from 1975-1978 at the St. Francis Novitiate in Oyster Bay.

In 1976, Brother Roman became the director of St. Francis Center until June 2001 when he moved to Padua Friary in Kings Park?- living on the same property where he began his Religious Life in 1951. Brother Roman earned his BA in English with a minor in History from St. Francis College in 1963, his MA from New York University in English in 1967, and he received his permanent teaching certification from the State of New York in 1968. He also studied at Fordham University and Molloy College.

Brother Roman and his faithful companion Nigel continue to reside at Padua Friary where his horticultural expertise is the envy of the neighborhood

Br. Jeremy Sztabnik, O.S.F.

I first met the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn in 1956 while I was a freshman at St. Francis College. Immediately, I found the Brothers to be dedicated educators and men of prayer. During my sophomore year, I joined the Franciscan Third Order Secular Fraternity and learned more about St. Francis of Assisi and prayer. As a small college, contact with the faculty and the Brothers was very informal with small groups always gathered in the cafeteria or at the arbor near the Monastery.

It was during one of these sessions with my friends and one of the Brothers that the Brother mentioned that the Brothers are always looking for men to join their ranks. With that though planted, I sought out some of the Brothers and eventually made an appointment during my junior year to see the Brothers' Vocation Director. Arrangements were made for me to visit the Brothers' Novitiate during the summer. I spent a week with the novices and some of the professed Brothers and began to formulate my decision to enter. I continued my studies at St. Francis College and my part time job and on February 2, 1960, I entered St. Francis Novitiate to prepare to be a Franciscan Brother. Of course this is only a part of my journey to Religious Life, which began with the love, prayers, and encouragement of my parents and many others. After over fifty years as a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn, my journey continues on to answer God's call to be a part of the mission work of Christ.

Br. Mark Waldmann, O.S.F.

Brother Mark Waldmann, of Stony Brook NY, received the Habit of the Franciscan Brothers on August 2, 1998, and took Temporary Vows January 22, 2000. From 2000 to 2008 Brother taught Social Studies and Computer Science at St. Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows. During his ministry at St. Francis Prep he also served as Director of Technology and Chairperson of the Computer and Business departments. Brother professed his final vows January 26, 2003.

Brother Mark is an Alumni of St. Anthony's High School ('96) and St. Francis College ('00) where he received a B.A. in History and an A.S. in Computer Technology. In 2007 he received his M.A. in Theology from the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, Huntington.

In the spring and summer months, Brother spends time tending to his organic vegetable and herb garden at the friary. Besides gardening, Brother is learning to play the Highland Bagpipes and the Scottish Smallpipes. He also serves the community in making Habit Franciscan Crowns and rosaries.

Brother is currently serving Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson, NY as Directors of Education and Technology
and was recently appointed Vocation Director for the Congregation

I entered the Brothers after my Freshman year of College, after having been taught by the Brothers at Saint Anthony's High School.
I have always felt pulled by God, and sought out opportunities growing up to understand what it was that i felt drawn to. And after having spent time with the Brothers and learning more about their life when i was a student at St. Anthony's I still wasn't sure where God was leading me. Then After spending a year at a Benedictine College, i found myself yearning for the life I left back home with the Brothers.

After almost 20 years in Religious life I continue to experience the many Graces that God pours upon me; through the support of my Brothers and Family and Friends.
When asked why did I become a brother? My answer is this: I didn't become anything, I entered into a deeper experience of myself, responding to what God had already placed in my soul. For me, these 19 years have deepened my faith, has enriched my life and has given me the opportunities to serve God in ways that I never thought I could.

Br. Kevin Smith, O.S.F.

Brother Kevin is the oldest of four children born to Betty (Mary Elizabeth Cronin) & Michael Smith in January 1941 and brother of Sister Kathleen RSM, Patricia Keenaghan and Virginia Clerkin. He grew up in East Elmhurst and then Flushing attending St. Kevin’s Parochial School, St. Francis Prep (North 6th Street) and Queens College. He entered the Franciscan Brothers in July 1961, receiving the religious name Colum and began his Franciscan training at the Brother’s Novitiate, first in Wyndanch and then in Upper Brookville, Long Island. Following his profession of religious vows in 1964, he was assigned to Brother Columba Reilly Scholasticate in Brooklyn Heights and completed his BA from Queens College of the City University of New York with a major in Psychology and began an MA in Counseling Psychology at Manhattan College.

Brother Kevin’s full time ministry began in 1965. Since then he has ministered as:

a high school teacher, counselor, activities moderator and principal -St. Francis Prep, teacher - Countess Moore High School(Staten Island)
a college professor, Arts & Science Acting Dean (Felician University - Lodi NJ), previously an adjunct professor at Brooklyn College, Richmond College (Staten Island) and Molloy College(Rockville Centre)
Vocation and Formation Director
Co-Vicar for Religious and Director of Administration for the Diocese of Rockville Centre
Member of the US Bishops’ National Advisory Council, President of the National Conference of Vicars for Religious, Instructor in the Pastoral Formation and Diaconate Programs of the Dioceses of Brooklyn and Rockville Centre
a Congregational Leader, as General Councilor, Treasurer General and for 8 years as Superior General
the first Executive Director of Franciscans International at the United Nations, achieving consultative status for Franciscan Peacemaking and Social Justice efforts worldwide

In the course of his on-going ministry as a Franciscan Educator, Brother Kevin’s academic achievements/awards include:

a PhD in Religious Education from New York University
specialized courses/workshops/programs at: Boston College (Catholic College Leadership); Centro Pro Unione-Rome (Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue); Franciscan Studies Certification (Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities); Franciscan Pilgrimage Study Programs (Europe); College Misericordia Scripture Institutes.
Doctor of Humane Letters – Saint Francis College; Franciscan Federation – Peacemaker Award; President’s Medallion – Felician College.

Currently, Brother Kevin continues to teach Graduate Courses in Religious Education on line through Felician University, serves on Boards of Trustees of Franciscan Brothers institutions and serves as a mentor to the Boards of a number of Catholic grade-school academies in the Diocese of Brooklyn. Brother Kevin’s hope is to continue to live the gospel wherever the Spirit leads.

Br. Lawrence Larmann, O.S.F.

Brother Lawrence Larmann was born on September 6, 1947, the eldest of four children, to August R. and Barbara (Mehler) Larmann in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn, New York
My sacramental initiations took place at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn. Mom and Dad, along with the Sisters of St. Joseph at St. mary's School nurtured the Gift of Faith during my grammar school years and showed me how to know, love, and serve God.
My family moved to Queens Village in 1960. This is the year I was introduced to the Franciscan Brothers and began a 50 year plus relationship with the Brothers at St. Francis Prep in Williamsburgh, and also at Camp Alvernia as a waiter for campers during the summer months.
Upon the completion of High School I entered St. Francis Novitiate from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Queens Village. I had been introduced to the Franciscan Charism and now began to formalize the response to the calling.
After the Profession of Vows in 1966, I was assigned to our house of studies in Brooklyn Heights, where I also attended St. Francis College.
During the span of 1968-1975, I ministered as a teacher at St. Joseph's School in Babylon, in grades 6, 7 and 8. I also served as baseball and basketball coach.
I also began Theological Studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington. Summers were also occupied with responsibilities at Camp Alvernia, as Director for 4 years.
From 1975-1989 I began my assignment to St. Anthony's High School in Smithtown and Hutington. It was during my years of service at St. Anthony's that I had the opportunity yo teach Theology, Chair the Theology Department, Direct the Office of Campus Ministry, and administer the Offices of Development and Alumni.
From 1989-1991 I accepted an invitation to Direct the Office of Development and Alumni at St. Joseph's High School in Trumbull, Connecticut. The time had come in 1991 to reach outside the formal educational setting to engage God's calling to Parish Ministry. It was at St. Joseph's Church in Astoria (1997-2007) and St. Mel's Church in Flushing (2007-2011) that I ministered as Director of Faith Formation.
Each and every stage of my life were years of Grace and growth. I am grateful to the hundreds of people whom I've met to date on this Journey to the Father.

Br. Campion Lally, O.S.F.

Brother Campion Lally, O.S.F. currently serves the Franciscan Brothers as Business Manager and a member of the Congregational Finance Committee.

Robert Francis Lally, son of the late Francis and Dorothy Lally(nee Simon), entered the Franciscan Brothers in January 1955 from St. Francis Prep, taking the religious name Campion. He received the Franciscan Habit in 1955 and was professed in 1957.

Brother was award a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from St. Francis College in 1964, and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Yeshiva University in 1966. He continued his education at St. John's University School of Law where he was awarded a J.D. in 1991. He was admitted to the Bar in New York and Florida. His areas of practice include Elder Law, Trusts and Estates, Wills and Real Estate.

Brother Campion began his teaching career at St. Joseph's School in Babylon in 1956. He subsequently taught at St. Anthony's School in Greenpoint (1957-58) and St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Carroll Gardens (1958-60). In 1960 he was assigned to St. Francis Prep. where he taught Latin and Math. In 1963 he was transferred to Bishop Ford High School. In 1967 he returned to St. Francis Prep as Chairman of the Math Department. He served as Assistant Principal of the Prep from 1983-1990, when he left teaching to complete his law degree.

Brother was active in the New York City Board of Education, having been elected to the Community School Board District 14 (Greenpoint-Williamsburgh) for 19 years, serving as its President for 11 of those years.

In 1993, Brother worked as Attorney in the Legal Department of the NYC Human Resources Administration. From 1994-1997 he served the Diocese of Rockville Centre as Executive Director of the Office of Health Ministry. Among his duties was Secretary of the Boards of Trustees of the Hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes of the Catholic Health Services of Long Island. He served two terms on the Continuing Care Board of the CHS, and is presently a member of the Foundation Board of Our Lady of Consolation Nursing and Rehabilitative Care Center in West Islip, New York. He has been on the Board of Directors of St. Agnes Academic High School College Point, since 1993. Brother served on the General Council of the Franciscan Brothers (1999-2003).

Brother Campion continues to share his talents and Franciscan Charism through his various ministries.

Br. Gerald Patrick Hedrick, O.S.F.

Brother Gerald Patrick Hedrick grew up in Omaha, Nebraska where he attended Sacred Heart grade and High Schools. He Joined the Marine Corps in 1960 and served in Southern California and Okinawa, Japan until his discharge in 1964.
In 1965 he entered novitiate of the Franciscan Brothers in Oyster Bay, NY and he professed his first vows in 1966. His teaching assignments included: St. Bridget's, Bushwick (1967-70), St. Francis Xavier, Park Slope(1970-72), St. Mary Star of the Sea, Carroll Gardens(1972-78) where he was teacher and principal, and Our lady of the Angels, Bay Ridge(1978-86).
From 1986-1992, he worked for Catholic Charities and St. Mary Star of the Sea Senior Housing Apartments, Carroll Gardens. He also worked at St. Anthony's Guild at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Manhattan for two years. From 1995 to 2009 he was an attendance officer at Bishop Ford High School, Park Slope.
Since his retirement he has resided at Our Lady of the Angels Friary in Bay Ridge.

Br. Robert Gabriel, O.S.F.

Brother Robert Gabriel was born in 1946, the son of the late John and Marie Gabriel and brother of Jack, he was raised in St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in Flatbush, Brooklyn, attending the parish school, being taught by the Dominican Sisters of Kentucky. Upon graduation in 1960, Brother Robert attended St. Francis Prep and joined the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn at St. Francis Novitiate in Upper Brookville, Long Island in 1964. He received the Franciscan Habit in January 1965 and professed temporary vows in January 1966 and his final vows in 1971. He completed his BS in History in 1969 at St. Francis College his MS in Education from Wagner College in 1976.
Brother is very proud of his family: his brother, Jack and sister-in-law, Pat, along with his nephews and nieces, Jack, Lisa, Michael, Donna and Joe and their spouses and children.
IN 1968 Brother Robert was assigned to teach at Our Lady of the Angels School in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. In 1977, he was appointed principal of Our Lady of Angels School where e served until coming to St. Anthony's High School in 1992, as a teacher of Freshman and Sophomore Theology courses. He became Chair of the Theology department the following year.
In 1996 he was appointed to serve as Dean of Faculty / Director of Studies at St. Anthony's High School. Brother moderates the National Honor Society and the Altar Servers. Brother Robert continues to share his love of Catholic - Franciscan Education at St. Anthony's High School with the students and faculty.

Br. Richard Contino, O.S.F.

My earliest recollections about the possibility that I had a vocation to the priesthood or the religious life began when I was in grade school and developed into what I can only term an attraction for the Church and the wonderful priests, sisters and brothers that were my models and teachers.
Those earliest moments of discernment took a rather lengthy journey as I considered religious life with the Carmelites and then for a number of years with the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis. It would eventually take me nearly 40 years to discover the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn when I encountered the Brothers at St. Francis College.
What I admired in the priests and religious of my early youth I found genuinely expressed in the brothers I had the opportunity to meet at the College. Their ministry of teaching but also their fraternal concern for one another and the deep dedication they expressed for their students rekindled my attraction for religious life and thankfully towards the process of becoming a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn.

Twenty years later I thank God every day for that gift of attraction for the life of the brother and for the grace to say yes to the vocation to serve Christ, the Church and my brothers in a ministry of Gospel witness. As a religious educator, I have taught on the high school level in both New York and North Carolina. Serving also as chair of Theology at St. Anthony's High School in Huntington, NY and Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh, North Carolina.
I have been privileged to serve my community as a member of the leadership Council and have served my fellow brothers as Director of Formation. Currently it is my great honor to mentor men who are discerning a vocation to our community in my capacity as Novice and Candidate Director.

Br. Joshua DiMauro, O.S.F.

Brother Joshua, entered Saint Francis Novitiate, Upper Brookville, NY on July 1, 1968, received the Habit of the Franciscan Brothers January 5, 1969, professed First Vows, January 6, 1970, and Professed his Perpetual vows August 14, 1977

Brother Joshua has served and ministered to the community over the years:

1972 B.A. Education (English and Math) St. Francis College
1972-1974 St. Francis Xavier, 5th-8th Grade Music and Math
1974-1984 Teacher St. Anthony’s High School, Smithtown (Math, Chorus)
1979 M.A. Music: University of Notre Dame
1981 Assumed Directorship of St. Anthony’s Chorus (Smithtown)
1983-1984 Post Graduate Choral Conducting and Gregorian Chant: Westminster Choir College (Princeton, NJ)
1984-Present Assistant Principal St. Anthony’s High School, Huntington Student Activities, Prefect of Discipline
1984-1999 Teacher St. Anthony’s High School, So. Huntington (Math)
1984-Present Choral Director St. Anthony’s High School, So. Huntington (Chorus)
1989 Gregorian Chant Studies: Abbaye St. Pierre de Solesmes, France
1990 Gregorian Studies: Catholic University, Washington, D.C.
1998 Italian Language and Culture Studies: Centro Linguistico Dante Alighieri, Firenze, Italia
1999 Italian Language and Culture Studies: Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (Roma, Italia)
1999-Present General Council of the Franciscan Brothers, Secretary General Board of Trustees, St. Anthony’s High School Board of Trustees, St. Francis Prep
2016-Present Board of Trustees, Maria Regina Residence Nursing Home

Brothers talents and gifts can be seen throughout our community's celebrations and festivities.

When asked why Brother decided to join the Brothers:

In the 5th and 6th Grade I attended Summer Camp Savio conducted by the Salesian Brothers, and at Bishop Ford High School I was taught by the Franciscan Brothers. From an early age, as a member of the Dominic Savio Club, I desired to serve God as a Religious and I had a fervor for teaching. The Franciscan Brothers embodied both of my passions.
I have been teaching at Saint Anthony’s for 40 years. Ministering as Assistant Principal for Student Activities and Prefect of Discipline for Freshmen. During my first 25 years I taught Math and have been Moderator of the Student Council for the past 41 years.
Currently I conduct the 600 voice Chorus and the 80 voice Gregorian Chant Schola.

I love St. Anthony’s because it embodies so many hallmarks of an 800 year old tradition of Franciscan Education.

Below is a sample of Brother Joshua and his Chorus from St. Anthony's High School, besides his concerts at St. Anthony's, his chorus has sung for several Popes and in several Countries.

Br. Roman Morris, O.S.F.

Brother Roman was born in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn on September 9, 1932, the third youngest of ten children of George Raymond Morris and Anna Katherine McGuire. Brother Roman attended St. Theresa of Avila Elementary School along with all his brothers and sisters. He was taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph in the lower grades and then by the Xaverian Brothers in the upper grades, graduating with the class of 1947.

He attended St. Francis Prep on Baltic Street and graduated with the class of 1951. While at the Prep, he was worked at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden where he developed his life long passion for gardening. It was during this time that he made the decision to become a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn, having been influenced by Brothers Benignus, Timothy, and other the Brothers that he met during and after school. In July, 1951, Brother Roman entered the St. Bonaventure Postulancy in Kings Park under the guidance of Brother Urban and Brother Aquinas. He received the habit at St. Paul's Church on Court Street, Brooklyn on February 3, 1952 and then began his novitiate at St. Francis Novitiate in Wyandanch, NY, professing first vows on January 24, 1954.

After profession, Brother Roman was assigned to St. Mary, Star of the Sea located in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn while living at the Monastery of St. Francis on Butler Street (Brother's father was educated by the Franciscan Brothers at this same school and graduated in 1903). During this era, the Monastery housed the Brothers on the faculties of St. Francis College, St. Francis Prep, St Patrick, and St Mary's as well as the retired Brothers. Brother Roman also taught at St. Brigid's, St. Francis Xavier, St. Joseph's in Babylon, and St. Aidan's in Williston Park. In 1965, he was assigned to Bishop Ford High School where he taught English and maintained the bookstore for ten years. Brother Roman, like many of the brothers of his day, spent numerous summers working at Camp St. Anthony, Camp Alvernia, and teaching reading at St. Joseph's in Babylon. From 1973 to 1975, he resided at the pre-novitiate house in Bay Ridge and then he served as Novice Director from 1975-1978 at the St. Francis Novitiate in Oyster Bay.

In 1976, Brother Roman became the director of St. Francis Center until June 2001 when he moved to Padua Friary in Kings Park?- living on the same property where he began his Religious Life in 1951. Brother Roman earned his BA in English with a minor in History from St. Francis College in 1963, his MA from New York University in English in 1967, and he received his permanent teaching certification from the State of New York in 1968. He also studied at Fordham University and Molloy College.

Brother Roman and his faithful companion Nigel continue to reside at Padua Friary where his horticultural expertise is the envy of the neighborhood

Br. Jeremy Sztabnik, O.S.F.

I first met the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn in 1956 while I was a freshman at St. Francis College. Immediately, I found the Brothers to be dedicated educators and men of prayer. During my sophomore year, I joined the Franciscan Third Order Secular Fraternity and learned more about St. Francis of Assisi and prayer. As a small college, contact with the faculty and the Brothers was very informal with small groups always gathered in the cafeteria or at the arbor near the Monastery.

It was during one of these sessions with my friends and one of the Brothers that the Brother mentioned that the Brothers are always looking for men to join their ranks. With that though planted, I sought out some of the Brothers and eventually made an appointment during my junior year to see the Brothers' Vocation Director. Arrangements were made for me to visit the Brothers' Novitiate during the summer. I spent a week with the novices and some of the professed Brothers and began to formulate my decision to enter. I continued my studies at St. Francis College and my part time job and on February 2, 1960, I entered St. Francis Novitiate to prepare to be a Franciscan Brother. Of course this is only a part of my journey to Religious Life, which began with the love, prayers, and encouragement of my parents and many others. After over fifty years as a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn, my journey continues on to answer God's call to be a part of the mission work of Christ.

Br. Mark Waldmann, O.S.F.

Brother Mark Waldmann, of Stony Brook NY, received the Habit of the Franciscan Brothers on August 2, 1998, and took Temporary Vows January 22, 2000. From 2000 to 2008 Brother taught Social Studies and Computer Science at St. Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows. During his ministry at St. Francis Prep he also served as Director of Technology and Chairperson of the Computer and Business departments. Brother professed his final vows January 26, 2003.

Brother Mark is an Alumni of St. Anthony's High School ('96) and St. Francis College ('00) where he received a B.A. in History and an A.S. in Computer Technology. In 2007 he received his M.A. in Theology from the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, Huntington.

In the spring and summer months, Brother spends time tending to his organic vegetable and herb garden at the friary. Besides gardening, Brother is learning to play the Highland Bagpipes and the Scottish Smallpipes. He also serves the community in making Habit Franciscan Crowns and rosaries.

Brother is currently serving Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson, NY as Directors of Education and Technology
and was recently appointed Vocation Director for the Congregation

I entered the Brothers after my Freshman year of College, after having been taught by the Brothers at Saint Anthony's High School.
I have always felt pulled by God, and sought out opportunities growing up to understand what it was that i felt drawn to. And after having spent time with the Brothers and learning more about their life when i was a student at St. Anthony's I still wasn't sure where God was leading me. Then After spending a year at a Benedictine College, i found myself yearning for the life I left back home with the Brothers.

After almost 20 years in Religious life I continue to experience the many Graces that God pours upon me; through the support of my Brothers and Family and Friends.
When asked why did I become a brother? My answer is this: I didn't become anything, I entered into a deeper experience of myself, responding to what God had already placed in my soul. For me, these 19 years have deepened my faith, has enriched my life and has given me the opportunities to serve God in ways that I never thought I could.

Br. Kevin Smith, O.S.F.

Brother Kevin is the oldest of four children born to Betty (Mary Elizabeth Cronin) & Michael Smith in January 1941 and brother of Sister Kathleen RSM, Patricia Keenaghan and Virginia Clerkin. He grew up in East Elmhurst and then Flushing attending St. Kevin’s Parochial School, St. Francis Prep (North 6th Street) and Queens College. He entered the Franciscan Brothers in July 1961, receiving the religious name Colum and began his Franciscan training at the Brother’s Novitiate, first in Wyndanch and then in Upper Brookville, Long Island. Following his profession of religious vows in 1964, he was assigned to Brother Columba Reilly Scholasticate in Brooklyn Heights and completed his BA from Queens College of the City University of New York with a major in Psychology and began an MA in Counseling Psychology at Manhattan College.

Brother Kevin’s full time ministry began in 1965. Since then he has ministered as:

a high school teacher, counselor, activities moderator and principal -St. Francis Prep, teacher - Countess Moore High School(Staten Island)
a college professor, Arts & Science Acting Dean (Felician University - Lodi NJ), previously an adjunct professor at Brooklyn College, Richmond College (Staten Island) and Molloy College(Rockville Centre)
Vocation and Formation Director
Co-Vicar for Religious and Director of Administration for the Diocese of Rockville Centre
Member of the US Bishops’ National Advisory Council, President of the National Conference of Vicars for Religious, Instructor in the Pastoral Formation and Diaconate Programs of the Dioceses of Brooklyn and Rockville Centre
a Congregational Leader, as General Councilor, Treasurer General and for 8 years as Superior General
the first Executive Director of Franciscans International at the United Nations, achieving consultative status for Franciscan Peacemaking and Social Justice efforts worldwide

In the course of his on-going ministry as a Franciscan Educator, Brother Kevin’s academic achievements/awards include:

a PhD in Religious Education from New York University
specialized courses/workshops/programs at: Boston College (Catholic College Leadership); Centro Pro Unione-Rome (Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue); Franciscan Studies Certification (Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities); Franciscan Pilgrimage Study Programs (Europe); College Misericordia Scripture Institutes.
Doctor of Humane Letters – Saint Francis College; Franciscan Federation – Peacemaker Award; President’s Medallion – Felician College.

Currently, Brother Kevin continues to teach Graduate Courses in Religious Education on line through Felician University, serves on Boards of Trustees of Franciscan Brothers institutions and serves as a mentor to the Boards of a number of Catholic grade-school academies in the Diocese of Brooklyn. Brother Kevin’s hope is to continue to live the gospel wherever the Spirit leads.

Br. Lawrence Larmann, O.S.F.

Brother Lawrence Larmann was born on September 6, 1947, the eldest of four children, to August R. and Barbara (Mehler) Larmann in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn, New York
My sacramental initiations took place at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn. Mom and Dad, along with the Sisters of St. Joseph at St. mary's School nurtured the Gift of Faith during my grammar school years and showed me how to know, love, and serve God.
My family moved to Queens Village in 1960. This is the year I was introduced to the Franciscan Brothers and began a 50 year plus relationship with the Brothers at St. Francis Prep in Williamsburgh, and also at Camp Alvernia as a waiter for campers during the summer months.
Upon the completion of High School I entered St. Francis Novitiate from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Queens Village. I had been introduced to the Franciscan Charism and now began to formalize the response to the calling.
After the Profession of Vows in 1966, I was assigned to our house of studies in Brooklyn Heights, where I also attended St. Francis College.
During the span of 1968-1975, I ministered as a teacher at St. Joseph's School in Babylon, in grades 6, 7 and 8. I also served as baseball and basketball coach.
I also began Theological Studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington. Summers were also occupied with responsibilities at Camp Alvernia, as Director for 4 years.
From 1975-1989 I began my assignment to St. Anthony's High School in Smithtown and Hutington. It was during my years of service at St. Anthony's that I had the opportunity yo teach Theology, Chair the Theology Department, Direct the Office of Campus Ministry, and administer the Offices of Development and Alumni.
From 1989-1991 I accepted an invitation to Direct the Office of Development and Alumni at St. Joseph's High School in Trumbull, Connecticut. The time had come in 1991 to reach outside the formal educational setting to engage God's calling to Parish Ministry. It was at St. Joseph's Church in Astoria (1997-2007) and St. Mel's Church in Flushing (2007-2011) that I ministered as Director of Faith Formation.
Each and every stage of my life were years of Grace and growth. I am grateful to the hundreds of people whom I've met to date on this Journey to the Father.

Br. Campion Lally, O.S.F.

Brother Campion Lally, O.S.F. currently serves the Franciscan Brothers as Business Manager and a member of the Congregational Finance Committee.

Robert Francis Lally, son of the late Francis and Dorothy Lally(nee Simon), entered the Franciscan Brothers in January 1955 from St. Francis Prep, taking the religious name Campion. He received the Franciscan Habit in 1955 and was professed in 1957.

Brother was award a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from St. Francis College in 1964, and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Yeshiva University in 1966. He continued his education at St. John's University School of Law where he was awarded a J.D. in 1991. He was admitted to the Bar in New York and Florida. His areas of practice include Elder Law, Trusts and Estates, Wills and Real Estate.

Brother Campion began his teaching career at St. Joseph's School in Babylon in 1956. He subsequently taught at St. Anthony's School in Greenpoint (1957-58) and St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Carroll Gardens (1958-60). In 1960 he was assigned to St. Francis Prep. where he taught Latin and Math. In 1963 he was transferred to Bishop Ford High School. In 1967 he returned to St. Francis Prep as Chairman of the Math Department. He served as Assistant Principal of the Prep from 1983-1990, when he left teaching to complete his law degree.

Brother was active in the New York City Board of Education, having been elected to the Community School Board District 14 (Greenpoint-Williamsburgh) for 19 years, serving as its President for 11 of those years.

In 1993, Brother worked as Attorney in the Legal Department of the NYC Human Resources Administration. From 1994-1997 he served the Diocese of Rockville Centre as Executive Director of the Office of Health Ministry. Among his duties was Secretary of the Boards of Trustees of the Hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes of the Catholic Health Services of Long Island. He served two terms on the Continuing Care Board of the CHS, and is presently a member of the Foundation Board of Our Lady of Consolation Nursing and Rehabilitative Care Center in West Islip, New York. He has been on the Board of Directors of St. Agnes Academic High School College Point, since 1993. Brother served on the General Council of the Franciscan Brothers (1999-2003).

Brother Campion continues to share his talents and Franciscan Charism through his various ministries.

Br. Gerald Patrick Hedrick, O.S.F.

Brother Gerald Patrick Hedrick grew up in Omaha, Nebraska where he attended Sacred Heart grade and High Schools. He Joined the Marine Corps in 1960 and served in Southern California and Okinawa, Japan until his discharge in 1964.
In 1965 he entered novitiate of the Franciscan Brothers in Oyster Bay, NY and he professed his first vows in 1966. His teaching assignments included: St. Bridget's, Bushwick (1967-70), St. Francis Xavier, Park Slope(1970-72), St. Mary Star of the Sea, Carroll Gardens(1972-78) where he was teacher and principal, and Our lady of the Angels, Bay Ridge(1978-86).
From 1986-1992, he worked for Catholic Charities and St. Mary Star of the Sea Senior Housing Apartments, Carroll Gardens. He also worked at St. Anthony's Guild at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Manhattan for two years. From 1995 to 2009 he was an attendance officer at Bishop Ford High School, Park Slope.
Since his retirement he has resided at Our Lady of the Angels Friary in Bay Ridge.

Br. Robert Gabriel, O.S.F.

Brother Robert Gabriel was born in 1946, the son of the late John and Marie Gabriel and brother of Jack, he was raised in St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in Flatbush, Brooklyn, attending the parish school, being taught by the Dominican Sisters of Kentucky. Upon graduation in 1960, Brother Robert attended St. Francis Prep and joined the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn at St. Francis Novitiate in Upper Brookville, Long Island in 1964. He received the Franciscan Habit in January 1965 and professed temporary vows in January 1966 and his final vows in 1971. He completed his BS in History in 1969 at St. Francis College his MS in Education from Wagner College in 1976.
Brother is very proud of his family: his brother, Jack and sister-in-law, Pat, along with his nephews and nieces, Jack, Lisa, Michael, Donna and Joe and their spouses and children.
IN 1968 Brother Robert was assigned to teach at Our Lady of the Angels School in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. In 1977, he was appointed principal of Our Lady of Angels School where e served until coming to St. Anthony's High School in 1992, as a teacher of Freshman and Sophomore Theology courses. He became Chair of the Theology department the following year.
In 1996 he was appointed to serve as Dean of Faculty / Director of Studies at St. Anthony's High School. Brother moderates the National Honor Society and the Altar Servers. Brother Robert continues to share his love of Catholic - Franciscan Education at St. Anthony's High School with the students and faculty.

Br. Richard Contino, O.S.F.

My earliest recollections about the possibility that I had a vocation to the priesthood or the religious life began when I was in grade school and developed into what I can only term an attraction for the Church and the wonderful priests, sisters and brothers that were my models and teachers.
Those earliest moments of discernment took a rather lengthy journey as I considered religious life with the Carmelites and then for a number of years with the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis. It would eventually take me nearly 40 years to discover the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn when I encountered the Brothers at St. Francis College.
What I admired in the priests and religious of my early youth I found genuinely expressed in the brothers I had the opportunity to meet at the College. Their ministry of teaching but also their fraternal concern for one another and the deep dedication they expressed for their students rekindled my attraction for religious life and thankfully towards the process of becoming a Franciscan Brother of Brooklyn.

Twenty years later I thank God every day for that gift of attraction for the life of the brother and for the grace to say yes to the vocation to serve Christ, the Church and my brothers in a ministry of Gospel witness. As a religious educator, I have taught on the high school level in both New York and North Carolina. Serving also as chair of Theology at St. Anthony's High School in Huntington, NY and Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh, North Carolina.
I have been privileged to serve my community as a member of the leadership Council and have served my fellow brothers as Director of Formation. Currently it is my great honor to mentor men who are discerning a vocation to our community in my capacity as Novice and Candidate Director.