At The Helm with Father Tom Conway, Executive Director at St. Anthony Shrine

Posted January 28, 2025

We sat down with Father Tom Conway, Executive Director of St. Anthony Shrine, to discuss the Shrine’s ministries, what makes the Shrine unique, and his advice for nonprofit leaders. 

Everybody Has a Shrine Story

St. Anthony Shrine holds a special place in the hearts of many Bostonians. Its rich, familial history and profound impact on the community have made it a cherished institution.

The Shrine’s mission is deeply rooted in Catholicism. Around the year 2000, we integrated social services as a vital part of our faith-based mission. While sacramental work remains central to our identity, we have expanded significantly into providing social services that aim to stir the heart and serve those in need.

 

What are some of St. Anthony Shrine’s ministries?

Our cornerstone ministries are our Masses and Confessions. These practices ground us in our Catholic faith and serve as a spiritual foundation for our community. Alongside these, we’ve developed several innovative social service initiatives.

Our flagship ministry is the Women’s Clinic for Homeless Women, which provides a safe, welcoming space for women who may not feel comfortable accessing other free clinics in Boston. With an all-female staff, this ministry meets a critical need while offering compassionate care. It’s a complicated ministry, but we like doing it.

We also operate a food pantry, which recently distributed over 15,000 pounds of food in just a few weeks. Our counseling services have grown, with skilled professionals providing essential mental health support.

Another deeply meaningful initiative is our Lazarus Ministry, which offers funeral services for homeless individuals. These funerals include music, a congregation, and full ceremonial support. One poignant moment was when Yo-Yo Ma volunteered to play at a Lazarus funeral. His only request was to avoid drawing attention to himself. He came, played beautifully, and left quietly. He understands Franciscan humility at some kind of base level. 

 

What makes the Franciscan Order unique?

The Franciscan Order traces its roots back 800 years to St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis prioritized action over tradition, advocating for change while remaining within the church.

At St. Anthony Shrine, we’re becoming more responsive and light on our feet to better respond to the needs of our community. I’m not a naturally spontaneous person, but I understand the need and strive to learn as it’s important to our mission.

Today, the Franciscan ethos drives us to respond quickly and effectively to emerging needs. This agility sets us apart from larger organizations that may be slowed by bureaucracy. It allows us to fulfill our mission in real-time, meeting people where they are and addressing pressing issues without delay.

 

As Executive Director, how do you balance leading the friars and the non-friars on your staff?

One of the unique dynamics at St. Anthony Shrine is the integration of friars and lay staff. Initially, Franciscans made up 100% of the staff, but over time, it became clear that non-friars brought diverse skills and expertise essential to expanding our mission.

My role as Executive Director involves maintaining a delicate balance. Lay staff often bring energy and innovation, sometimes moving at a faster pace than the friars. It’s my responsibility to ensure that both groups work in harmony, with lay staff respecting the friars’ contributions and the friars providing the Franciscan stamp that defines our work.

This collaboration is like a dance—one that requires mutual respect, open communication, and a shared commitment to our mission. Together, friars and lay staff create something truly extraordinary. And it’s kind of a dance that I choreograph.

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