Thank you for visiting the website of St. Francis Chapel!
 
The Franciscan friars began serving in Providence, Rhode Island at the original St. Francis Chapel on Page Street, then Weybosset Street, and most recently on Westminster Street, all locations within downtown Providence. However, after more than 55 years of serving the people of Providence, the friars have had to make the difficult decision to close St. Francis Chapel. This is due mainly for two reasons: diminishing finances, and a diminishing number of friars able to serve at the chapel.
 
On November 7, 2011, we celebrated a farewell mass at the chapel. The chapel was packed! We were surprised to find several local newspapers, television, and radio stations present, and we were touched by the outpouring of good wishes as we bid farewell. Many retired friars have spoken fondly of the years they spent in Providence serving at the chapel.
 
We also want to inform you that the friars are no longer staffing St. Mary's Parish on Broadway. The friars have served at St. Mary's since 2006 and celebrated a farewell mass on February 19, 2012. To reach St. Mary's, please call 401-274-3434.
 
The Poverello Center food pantry on Hartford Avenue has also closed as of February 2012. Much of the funding for the food pantry was provided through St. Francis Chapel, and with the chapel's closing late last year, we were unable to maintain operations of the food pantry. We are hopeful that another entity will step in and continue to serve that neighborhood in the same building. The ministry of the Poverello Center continues with the Bread and Blessings program under the leadership of Fr. Brice Leavins, OFM. For the past several years, Bread and Blessings has provided sandwiches, hot coffee and muffins to the hungry three mornings a week at Beneficent Church in downtown Providence. To contribute to this important ministry, please contact Fr. Brice Leavins, OFM at: 901 Atwells Ave, Providence RI 02909. Checks should be made payable to The Poverello Center.
 
The Franciscan Friars thank you for your support over the 55+ years they were blessed to have been able to serve in Providence. Please visit www.hnp.org to learn more about the friars of Holy Name Province.
 
May the Lord give you peace!