Fr. Robert Warren, SA

Father Warren truly exemplifies the Franciscan spirit as one who heals wounds and brings home those who have lost their way. Since 1988, he has ministered to those in the New York Metropolitan area living with HIV/AIDS with his unique mix of support and compassion. Besides serving as Director for Do- Not-Fear-to-Hope, one of the longest-running spiritually-oriented support groups in New York, he also has served as Director of Community Development. He served as a member of the Board of St. Christopher’s Inn for five years (2002-2007) and, in 2005, he accepted the additional role of Guardian of St. Christopher’s Inn Friary.

Father Warren has also served on the Ryan White Committee for New York State which dispersed federal funds to local AIDS organizations. Prior to his current assignments, he served as Director of Vocations and was a member of the Friars’ Formation Team where he was responsible for the recruiting and training of men who wish to become members of the order.

Born and raised in London, England, Father Warren joined the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement in 1961. He holds a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Fordham University and a Masters of Divinity degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. After his ordination in 1981, he served as Associate Pastor at Church of the Atonement in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Since 1995, Father Warren, known as Father Bob to the public, has been serving as Spiritual Director. His soothing voice is familiar to the many who come to the AtonementFriars.org website to “Pray with Father Bob” and to online listeners of the Ave Maria Hour. His Monday morning thoughts on the gospel are shared on Facebook and offered through subscriptions.

In 1994 Father Warren was given the Community Enhancement Award from the AIDS Related Community Services (ARCS) for his contribution and commitment to working with people who living with HIV/AIDs. In 2013, received the Franciscan Life in Evolution Award from the Franciscan Federation for integrating science, theology and spirituality in his life and ministry. In 2016, he received a Distinguished Service Award from the Putnam Community Service Network for his work with the HIV/AIDs