45 alumni from Mount St. Francis Seminary gathered July 12 through 15 to reminisce, socialize, and join together in prayer and reflection.

Br. Larry Eberhardt applauds as Bruce Weidener thanks the chefs at Mount St. Francis, Randy Hendrich and Brandon Smallwood, for preparing the delicious meals for the weekend
Alumni traveled from seven states, including New Mexico, Minnesota, and Florida, to take part in the weekend’s festivities. Of the 45 participants, 13 were friars. “It was a success, that’s for sure,” said Friar Larry Eberhardt. “These people definitely love the Mount.”
The reunion began with a picnic on Thursday and included a banquet Friday night and a general meeting on Saturday afternoon.

Br. Bob Baxter talks with the alumni about current ministries at Mount St. Francis. -photo by Fr. Louis Manna
Br. Bob Baxter, OFM Conv., gave a presentation about the work of the Friars at the Mount today, telling the guests how the work of the Church continues in retreats, spiritual direction, and the preservation of the natural beauty of the property.
Fr. Jim Kent, OFM Conv., an alum who is now Minister Provincial, talked about the state of the Province of Our Lady of Consolation, which is headquartered at Mount St. Francis. He also spoke of a recent Province Assembly, at which Conventual Franciscan Friars from Zambia, India, Mexico, and Central America participated in conversations about the mission work of the Province.

Fr. Maurus Hauer, Dean of OLC Province and '38 graduate, reminisces with Stan Schiffli, a '40 graduate.
But the most important part of the weekend was the chance for old friends to meet and share memories of the past and news about their current lives. There was also a special service honoring recently deceased alumni.