The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement and the Capuchin Franciscans of the Province of St. Mary have decided to conclude their collaborative retreat ministry and close their common friary at Graymoor.
The retreat ministry at Graymoor will continue under the leadership of the Friars of the Atonement. The Capuchin Friars will staff and support scheduled retreats through year end, but will no longer reside at Graymoor. The two communities continue to discuss possible collaborations on future retreat programs.
“The Capuchin Friars brought their many gifts to Graymoor and helped reenergize our retreat center during a challenging period due to the pandemic,” said Fr. Brian Terry, SA, Minister General of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement. “Having them with us here over the last year has been a blessing that we hope to build on by co-sponsoring future retreat programs and exploring other areas of partnership.”
“We have enjoyed our time in ministry with the Friars of the Atonement,” said Fr. Michael Greco, O.F.M. Cap., Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Franciscans of the Province of St. Mary. “Our two communities have embraced and supported each other since Blessed Fr. Solanus Casey, O.F.M. Cap, and Servant of God Fr. Paul Wattson, SA, first became friends more than 100 years ago, and we will continue to do so, while seeking opportunities to work together in service of God and the church.”