Meet The Pastor
Rev. Joe Spina
Father Joe, OSF
Father Joe is originally from Brooklyn, NY where he ministered in various schools in the Diocese of Brooklyn – mainly in the areas of Junior High classes of religion and social studies. During these years he made his first contact with the Franciscans within the framework of the Brooklyn community as a professed member. All of his 12 years in the classroom were as a lay teacher. He was also the first male principal in the San Diego diocese of an elementary academy where he ministered for three years as a Brother of Charity. Fr. Joe was ordained an Old Catholic priest in Kew Gardens, NY. He has been in south Florida since ’89 and is presently the pastor ofThe Parish of Sts. Francis & Clare in Fort Lauderdale. In addition to this ministry he is also the lead chaplain at Memorial-Pembroke Hospital as well as ministering in three retirement residences. The local community is also involved in working with our four-legged companions – serving as chaplains to the Humane Society of Broward County as well as to Holly Dogs, a greyhound rescue service from various dog race tracks. This ministry is also enhanced by association with the Miami Marlins when they sponsor Bark at the Park when fans bring their dogs to a game. It’s a great way to incorporate faith commitments into the every day lives of those with whom we are privileged to extend our ministry.