Franciscan in Focus: Brother Gabriel O'Brien, OSF

Brother Gabriel is truly living in the joy of his Franciscan Life! Our Rule of Life states: “It should be obvious that they are “joyful, good-humored,” and happy “in the Lord” as they ought to be.  And in greeting others, let them say, ‘The Lord give you peace!’” (TOR Rule, 5) Become a Franciscan Brother and discover your joy!

Brother Gabriel O’Brien, O.S.F., was born on August 9, 1943 and was given the name Gerard.  He entered Religious Life in 1963 and received the name Gabriel.  After temporary profession in 1965, Brother Gabriel attended Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio and received his B.S. Degree in Education followed by a Master of Science in School Administration from the University of Dayton.  During this time, he taught at St. Agnes School and Holy Rosary School in the Diocese of Steubenville, Ohio.

In 1976, Brother Gabriel was assigned to teach at Our Lady Of the Angels School and resided at Our Lady of the Angels Friary in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn.  In 1978, he was assigned to teach at Saint Anthony’s High School and resided at Padua Friary in Smithtown, NY.  Brother Gabriel was Assistant Principal at St. Anthony’s High School from 1979-1986 and resided at St. Bonaventure Friary.

From 1986-1991, Brother Gabriel ministered at Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Brooklyn as Director of Mary, Star of the Sea Apartments for low and moderate income senior citizens and handicapped residents while residing at Bishop Ford High School Friary in Brooklyn.

In 1982, Brother Gabriel received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Long Island University.  Brother completed a Post-Master’s program in the field of Aging from the Hunter College School of Social Work in New York City in 1989.  Brother Gabriel is also a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Knights of Columbus.

In 1991, Brother Gabriel was appointed Formation Director and Candidate Director for the Franciscan Brothers.  He also served on the General Council of the Franciscan Brothers from 1991-1999 and again from 2003-2011.  Additionally, Brother Gabriel served as Director of the Mission Awareness for the Society of the Propagation of the Faith, Diocese of Brooklyn.

In 1998, Brother Gabriel accepted a ministry position as Administrator of Martin de Porres Village, a housing development for low and moderate income adults, families, and senior citizens, in the Diocese of Paterson, NJ.  Brother Gabriel continues to serve in this ministry.