Franciscan Friars of the Atonement

About Us

The Society of the Atonement – made up of two distinct Frnciscan communities of Friars and Sisters – began in the Episcopalian Church in 1898. Fr. Paul Wattson, S.A. and Sr. Lurana White, S.A., co-founders of the Society, wanted their new Society to be engaged in the work of “at-one-ment”, that is, reconciling Christians and their churches, making them to reflect their full and visible unity in Jesus Christ through theHoly Spirit. In 1909, for the first time since the days of the Reformation, the entire religious community became Roman Catholic on a corporate rather than individual basis.

Our Ministries

Ecumenical Ministries

The Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute is located in New York City. The Center
promotes unity and understanding among peoples of all Faiths. Centro Pro Unione, the Friars’ ecumenical research and documentation center, is located in Rome.

Social Ministries

St. Christopher’s Inn, a shelter for homeless and addicted men, is located at Graymoor, NY.
Do Not Fear to Hope HIV/AIDS Ministry

Pastoral Ministries

The Graymoor Spiritual Life Center provides year-round retreats and educational programs.

Parish Ministries on three continents

Prison, Hospital and Social Services throughout Canada and the U.S.A.

Come & See Discernment Weekends

For single Catholic men between 18–40 considering a call to religious life and service to the Church.