2014 Franciscan Campaign/ Because of You!

Dear Friends of St. Anthony Shrine,

3f7fe50-1Greetings of Peace! I am Fr. Tom Conway, OFM the new Executive Director of St. Anthony Shrine & Ministry Center. I entered the Franciscan Order in 1987. My previous assignments included teaching at Siena College in Loudonville, NY; working in a parish on Long Beach Island, NJ; and serving as a mentor at an international Franciscan seminary in Silver Spring, MD. I am very excited to be in Boston and am having a great time meeting people here.

Upon my arrival, I was delighted to learn of the many life-changing ministries here at the Shrine. In addition to the sacramental work of my fellow friars we also have a tremendous outreach to the poor in downtown Boston. We work hard to meet the needs of the hungry, the sick, the homeless and, in the Franciscan tradition, anyone who finds them

appeal web bannerI know these ministries are not new to you. Because of your support we are able to serve several thousand people each year who seek our help. In the enclosed brochure you will see how your support is making a difference. Because of You we are able to continue and to expand the ministries and programs here at the Shrine.selves on the margins of society. In addition, we have 12-step programs, programs for young adults and the elderly, and educational offerings to promote Catholic social justice teachings.

St. Anthony Shrine receives no funding for these ministries from the Archdiocese of Boston. We do not have an endowment. We do not collect weekly envelopes. We are completely dependent on the generosity of friends like you. Please remember that it is only Because of You with your prayers and financial support that we can continue these ministries.

We as Franciscans Friars, like St. Francis, beg not for ourselves but for others. This we do without shame or hesitation because the need of others is so great. As you know these are challenging times and many are seeking our help now more than ever. Therefore, the friars and I are continuing that honored tradition of asking, begging, for your help – for your financial support – of our shared ministries. Together we can and do make a difference for others!

With gratitude,

Fr. Thomas Conway, OFM
Executive Director, St. Anthony Shrine & Ministry Center

P.S. Please introduce yourself to me when you are here.  I look forward to meeting you.