Franciscan Spiritual Companions
Fr. Richard C. Flaherty, OFM
Fr. Richard was ordained in 1982 and did his theological and pastoral studies at Blessed Pope John XXIII Seminary. Ministry experiences include prison ministry during the Vietnam War, working with special needs children and adults, a campus ministry at St. Bonaventure University, counseling, retreat work, and parish ministry. Fr. Richard received his certification as a Spiritual Companion from Cardinal Stritch University, Wisc.
Br. Bob Frazzetta, OFM, M.A.
Br. Bob is a graduate of Fordham University’s Advanced Certificate in Spiritual Direction program with degrees in Religious Studies (Emmanuel College) and Theology (St. Elizabeth University). He has taught Music and Theology in schools in East Boston and New Jersey and is presently the Director of Liturgy at the Shrine as well as a member of the Spiritual Direction Training Program team.
Carol O’Brien
Carol O’Brien received her training with the Franciscan Spiritual Direction program at St Anthony Shrine in Boston and practiced in Boston and on the South Shore. Previously a 20 year stay-at-home Mom, she participated in many parish ministries and school activities before obtaining her Master’s Degree in Lay Pastoral Ministry from the Atheneum of Ohio, at Mount St Mary Seminary in Cincinnati in 1993. After receiving her degree, she taught theology in Catholic Schools and served as a high school campus minister. Now retired, she presently facilitates the Women’s Spiritual Reflection group at St Anthony Shrine and volunteers with Hospice of the South Shore. Carol feels very blessed to have known several faith-filled people over the years who have walked with her on her spiritual journey and hopes to offer the same companionship she has known to others who seek a deeper relationship with God.
Br. John Maganzini, OFM
Br. John is originally from Somerville, Ma. He served in the US Army and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War. He holds Bachelors and Masters degrees in Education, Religious Education and Religious Studies. He has completed post-Masters studies in school administration, church leadership, adult faith formation and pastoral counseling. He graduated from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT with a certification in Spiritual Direction/Companioning. His background includes teaching, Catholic school administration, counseling, adult faith formation, retreat work, workshops, in-service programs for faculty and staff development, ministry to women and men in Twelve Step Recovery Programs, and formation for candidates entering Religious life. He is presently a member of the Friary Worship Team and a Spiritual Director (Companion) in the Franciscan Spiritual Companionship Ministry.
Br. Daniel F. Murray, OFM
Br. Daniel has been a Franciscan Friar since 1973. In his time as a friar, he has served in various parishes as a teacher, religious education coordinator, and youth minister. He has served as a formatter for candidates to Holy Name Province both in the U.S. and in Peru. He received his certification as a spiritual director from Cardinal Stritch University, Wisc. He works in the Development Office and is available to hear 5th Steps for those in recovery. His cell phone is 617-717-9705.
Mrs. Nancy Nichols Kearns
Nancy Nichols Kearns is a recently retired school administrator. She is married with children and grandchildren. She is experienced in curricula for youth faith formation and for adults as coordinator of the ARISE program for her parish. She leads a centering prayer group and is the coordinator for Contemplative Outreach of New England. She is an active member of the Cursillo community and has participated in the Mychal Judge ministry. She is a certified spiritual director through Cardinal Stritch University. Nancy directs the Women’s Spirituality Reflection Group at the Shrine.