Fr. Stan Fortuna

Fr. Stan Fortuna has been playing music since the 2nd grade when his father gave him his first instrument for Christmas - a red electric guitar! His love for music grew into early adulthood as he began the life long journey of learning the art of improvising by practicing countless hours and playing lots of sessions in the New York area. It was during that time that Fortuna began hearing his true calling in life and was eventually ordained a Catholic priest. He is one of the eight original members of the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, a community established in the Archdiocese of New York under the jurisdiction of John Cardinal O'Connor in 1987.

Fr. Stan established Francesco Productions in 1987, a non-profit record company which makes his music available on cassette and CD. From Contemporary Christian to Jazz, Folk and Rap, this incredible musician and composer has produced music for the enjoyment of all ages and walks of life. He has released numerous CD's of original music and standards, arranged in his very special style. All of the proceeds from the sales of the CD's and cassettes goes to the Community's hands-on work with the poor.

Although Fr. Stan lives in the South Bronx where he serves the poor and needy families, he is internationally known for his music as well as for his powerful preaching. Fr. Stan travels extensively, performing his music and proclaiming the Gospel at conferences, retreats, and both national and international youth prayer festivals. He has been a featured speaker at Franciscan University's High School Age Youth Conferences and Youth 2000 events for several years. He has also appeared numerous times on EWTN's Life on the Rock.

In January 1999, Fr. Stan was asked to preach and perform at the youth rally in St. Louis during Pope John Paul's visit. He is now serving full time in the preaching apostolate using his gift of music, a powerful means to reach deep into the heart and soul of both the young and old throughout the world.