On September 13, 2025, the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Friar Francesco IANNELLO professed his solemn vows into the hands of Friar Salvatore M. PULIZZOTTO, the Minister Provincial of the Italian Province of the Immaculate Conception (Sicily-Calabria).
Earlier, on September 12, the faithful of the Maria Santissima del Rosario Parish Church in Palmi, Italy, together with the local friars, participated in Eucharistic adoration together. On that occasion, they thanked the Lord for the gift of Friar Francesco, and all consecrated persons. They also prayed for the gift of new religious vocations.
After the solemn profession ceremony, a reception was held at the nearby Giovanni Paolo II Center. Many parishioners attended, along with Friar Francesco’s friends and family. Friars from the friaries of Sicily-Calabria and the Seraphicum College in Rome were also present. In his homily, the Minister Provincial talked about the salvific value of the Cross for all Christians and, in particular, for us Franciscans. Following the example of our seraphic father St. Francis, we are called to follow Christ poor and crucified, who emptied himself and made himself an obedient servant, even unto death on the cross.
The entire celebration was marked by profound joy and gratitude to the Lord for the gift of Friar Francesco. His generous “yes” to God’s plan has been a source of great consolation and hope for our religious Province. It inspires everyone, especially young people, to trust in the Lord.
Friar Antonio M. PARISI, Provincial Secretary
