Fall-Winter 2013-2014

efforts for Marian missions in Rwanda, the Philippines, and elsewhere. He proved to be a key player in the establishment of smaller centers for the Association of Marian Helpers in Poland and other countries. Also, under his leadership, the Marians pur- chased a new, state-of-the-art printing press. “We turned it on March 1, 2000,” Fran recalled. “The first thing we printed was a St. Faustina thanksgiving prayercard just a couple of weeks before her canonization, and we handed one to all 20,000 pilgrims on Mercy Sunday.” Growth in the mission Fran leaves behind a publishing apostolate on Eden Hill that produces about 50 million pieces of printed matter annually; a prayer- line that receives tens of thousands of prayer requests monthly; and an Internet depart- ment that administers 25 websites. The Marian Helpers Center, headquarters for the Association of Marian Helpers in the United States and Canada, now serves 1.5 million people devoted to the spiritual and financial support of the Marian Fathers and their many ministries. At a reception for Fran hosted by the Marians on May 7, Fr. Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, shared how he was on Eden Hill in 1944, shortly after the Marians purchased the property in Stockbridge. “I saw the whole transition from then to now,” Fr. Seraphim said. “We began all our evangelization efforts in the cellar over here, and I can’t believe where it has come to now.” Turning his eyes to Fran, Fr. Seraphim said, “And most of it is thanks to you. God bless you, and He’ll reward you in a way only He knows.” Father Seraphim should know, humanly speaking, since he served two terms as Association director during Fran’s tenure. Fran’s position has grown over the years such that the Marians have now divided it into two positions: operations and evange- lization. Longtime manager of the Internet Technology Department Kevin Dougherty now also serves as the center’s executive director of operations. Mark Fanders, who joined the Marians in early 2012 as an asso- ciate member of the Congregation, serves as executive director of evangelization. Upon his retirement on May 24, Fran began a new life with different priorities. Top among them is making up for lost time with his family, including his two young grandchil- dren. He has vowed to follow the advice of Fr. Joe Roesch, MIC, vicar general of the Marians. In his homily at a Holy Mass celebrated May 7 in Fran’s honor, Fr. Joe told Fran to always keep his heart open to the Lord. “The Lord is with us,” said Fr. Joe. “He’s been with you, Fran, and will continue to be with you.” MH Four reasons to join the Circle of Light Candles: At least one votive candle will be lit each month for your most fervent intentions. Prayers: All intentions are individually prayed for by our Intercessory Prayer Ministers. Mercy: Every candle you have lit for someone is an act of mercy. Support: Your monthly or annual offering supports the Marian Fathers and their apostolic ministries around the world. For a free information packet or to join, call 1-800-462-7426 or visit mycircleoflight.org. Back to index