Our friar Fr. Dominic Silvestro turned 99 years old today, Nov. 2. Born in 1927, he was invested as a novice in 1953, at a time when his calling was considered to be a “late vocation.” Well, he has more than made up for “lost time,” as he is now in his 74th year of religious life and his 67th year of priesthood.

This photo of his birthday celebration was taken at the Capuchins’ infirmary in Perugia, Italy, where he has lived for many years now.

Father Dominic was a missionary for many years in Japan, a nation whose people’s average life expectancy is among the highest in the world. Perhaps he discovered a few secrets to longevity during his sojourn in Okinawa! We thank the friars of Perugia for taking such good care of our brother.