Our dear
Brother Francis passed to the Lord last evening, 1 August. He was raised in a
devout family and would tell of Sunday afternoon car rides with his parents and
brother when he was growing up that usually ended with a visit to a church for
prayer. Francis came to Abbey as a young man in his twenties after some art studies and brief employment as a delivery messenger in Manhattan.
Brother Francis was a perfect example of the hardworking Cistercian laybrother. Among other jobs, in his early years he helped with tailoring at the The Holy Rood Guild. And in recent decades, Francis worked tirelessly in Trappist Preserves kitchen.
He was also the Abbey's liturgical master of ceremonies. And all of us
will recall his patient assistance, as he taught us the rubrics for masses on
solemnities and for religious professions.
But most of all we will remember Francis for
his gentleness and his self-effacing manner. He was an example of
contemplative prayerfulness and generous service at work. And he blended these two aspects of our life seamlessly. We will
miss him terribly.
Photographs by Brother Brian.
Please note. Due to the Covid pandemic, we cannot allow guests to attend Brother Francis' funeral.
But most of all we will remember Francis for
his gentleness and his self-effacing manner. He was an example of
contemplative prayerfulness and generous service at work. And he blended these two aspects of our life seamlessly. We will
miss him terribly.