Experience the World Through a Friar’s Lens: A Captivating Photo Exhibit

LORETTO — A new photo exhibition at Saint Francis University’s Connors Family Fine Arts Center is capturing attention. This showcase features over 30 photos taken by Brother Shamus McGrenra, a Franciscan friar in the university’s advancement office.

The exhibit opened on January 23. Many students and faculty came to admire the stunning images. Brother Shamus has captured more than 15,000 photos during his explorations around the world. The exhibition presents a glimpse of his incredible journey.

The displayed images include charming animal photographs—like a cow and a donkey—as well as breathtaking nature shots of snowy trees, lakes, and oceans. Visitors can also find iconic landmarks, including the One World Trade Center in New York City and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

One standout moment captured is a selfie of Brother Shamus next to a sign in Jacksonville, Florida, that reads “Loretto Road.” Freshman Anthony Smithmyer was particularly struck that all these images were taken with an iPhone. “I like the winter ones because I love the snow,” he said, expressing admiration for McGrenra’s work.

Freshmen Addison Davis and Jenna Gardner attended the reception as part of a community enrichment requirement. “They’re gorgeous, and there are interesting stories behind each one,” Davis said, noting her fondness for the nature photos.

One photo of a cow, the first in the exhibit, was taken during a bicycle trip for the Brother Shamus Charity Bike Ride. “The cow just popped its head out, and I couldn’t resist taking photos,” he shared. Another memorable shot was taken on the Camino de Santiago in Spain, where he spotted a donkey peeking through a fence. “I knew I had to capture that moment,” he explained.

McGrenra’s panoramic photo of a sunrise in Florida, with two palm trees framing a chair, showcases his talent for finding beauty in everyday sights. He expressed, “Sometimes, I just see something that catches my eye, and I have to stop and take a picture.”

Working closely with Jessica Campbell, the director of the fine arts center, McGrenra carefully selected 32 images for the exhibit. Campbell aims to present student and local artists in the gallery. She commended Brother Shamus for his ability to reveal beauty and positivity in simple scenes, reflecting his joyful personality and love for travel.

Fellow faculty member Bonnie Resinski praised McGrenra’s work as aligning beautifully with the Franciscan tradition of celebrating nature. She couldn’t help but chuckle at the cow photo, calling it eye-catching and full of expression.

The gallery welcomes the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. The exhibit will continue to be displayed until March 7, 2025, offering everyone a chance to witness the world through Brother Shamus’ lens.

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