Franciscan Father John Boyd Boland Passed Away At 82

Father John Boyd Boland, a member of the Franciscan Order and the Catholic Church at large, passed away on March 16, 2023. He was 82 years old.

Who was John Boyd Boland?

John Boyd Boland, S.J., the priest, was born in the Big Apple in 1940. He was up in a devout Catholic family and attended Catholic schools for the most of his formative years.

St. Bonaventure University awarded him a Bachelor of Arts in 1962, and Washington Theological Union granted him a Master of Theology in 1967.

Over his decades of service, Father Boland, a member of the Franciscan Order, impacted the lives of many individuals.

What did John Boyd do for a living?

When Father Boland first entered the priesthood in 1967, he traveled across the Northeastern United States acting as a parish priest.

In the future, he became a chaplain and served in a number of hospitals in the state of Connecticut, including St. Francis Hospital in Hartford and St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport.

Father Boland became a member of the Roman Catholic Franciscan Friars of the Atonement in 1984.

Both as Provincial Minister of the Atonement Friars in the United States and as a member of the International Franciscan Commission for Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation, he held a number of positions of leadership within the Order.

In addition to his work as a priest, Father Boland was a tireless supporter of causes that promoted equality and freedom for those who were otherwise disadvantaged.

He was heavily involved with and enthusiastic about the Catholic Worker Movement’s efforts to alleviate poverty, hunger, and homelessness.

What happened to John Boyd Boland that led to his untimely demise?

John Boyd Boland’s death remains mysterious. It is important for our team to determine the root of death. When we discover what’s causing it, you’ll hear from us.

The Franciscan community will miss Father John Boyd Boland much for his many contributions to the church and his persistent pursuit of social justice.

John Boyd Boland was laid to rest on March 15, 2023, in Graymoor, the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement headquarters in Garrison, New York, according to a memorial and obituary.

Many from the Franciscan community, as well as Father Boland’s friends and family, turned out in large numbers for the event.

Numerous people have expressed their sadness and remembrances. “Father Boland was a devout Franciscan and a faithful servant of God,” remarked the Bishop of Buffalo, New York, Richard J. Malone.

Father John Boyd Boland exemplified what it meant to spend one’s life serving others and showing compassion.

It is a profound loss for the Catholic Church and society at large, but his legacy will continue to inspire and encourage those who knew him. I pray that he finally finds some peace.