These Franciscans make up strong graduating class for 2025

The fun of graduation season includes several brothers who have completed their studies in various programs. Here’s a look at the province’s class of 2025.  

• Br. Noé Alfaro Casas, OFM: Br. Noé completed his Master of Divinity at the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. He serves in diaconate ministry at San Francisco de la Espada/St. Frances Cabrini Parish in San Antonio.  

• Br. Juan Luis Guerrero, OFM: Br. Juan Luis earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Philosophy and Psychology from San Diego Mesa College in California. He is now pursuing a Master of Divinity at the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas, as part of his Franciscan formation.  

• Br. Kevin Hamzik, OFM: Br. Kevin finished the Master of Fine Arts program at Columbia College Chicago. He will next work at the Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University.   

• Br. Adolfo Mercado, OFM: Br. Adolfo finished his studies at the Franciscan School of Theology at the University of San Diego. He will move to San Antonio, Texas, to complete his formation at the Oblate School of Theology after taking his solemn vows.  

Br. Raphael Ozoude, OFM, recently graduated from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. (Photo courtesy of Br. Raphael Ozoude, OFM)

Br. Raphael Ozoude, OFM, on graduation day with Br. Gilberto Cavazos-Gonzalez, OFM. (Photo courtesy of Br. Raphael Ozoude, OFM)

• Br. Raphael Ozoude, OFM: Br. Raphael earned his Master of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He will be ordained to the presbyterate in August and assigned to pastoral ministry.  

• Br. Matt Ryan, OFM: Br. Matt earned a Master of Divinity from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He will be ordained on Aug. 22 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and awaits his first appointment at a Franciscan parish.