After graduating from Boston College way back when, I joined a volunteer program run by that school and I was assigned to serve in Jamaica, West Indies.  I was there for almost 3 years.  It was a life changing experience for me in many ways.  As a Franciscan I always had the dream of having a Franciscan spirited volunteer program for young people to provide a platform for the same profound experience I had.

So I was delighted when the Province asked me to join other Friars in forming the Franciscan Volunteer Ministry.  I have seen it grow from just an idea to a program where through the years almost 200 young people have served, sacrificed, prayed, shared, lived, loved and laughed their way into becoming true Christian men and women being a beacon of light to the world.

Our ministry here in Philadelphia at St. Francis Inn soup kitchen would not be the same without this group of young committed men and women.  They add life, energy and a unique spirit to our work.  They are loved by the staff and guests alike.  They give joy and a bright ray of hope for the future!