Remembering Fr. Benedict Groeschel on the Anniversary of His Birth

This year, as we mark the anniversary of the birth of Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel, C.F.R., we reflect with deep gratitude on the life and legacy of a priest whose impact on Good Counsel—and the world—endures in grace and generosity.

Fr. Benedict passed into eternal life on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the very saint whose spirit of poverty and service so deeply marked his own. A founder of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, Fr. Benedict was one of the most recognizable Catholic voices in the United States. As an author of over 40 books, a professor of pastoral psychology, a counselor, retreat master, and EWTN personality, he helped millions see the face of Christ in the poor and the forgotten.

But for us at Good Counsel, he was something more—he was co-founder, spiritual father, and a guiding light.

Fr. Benedict’s influence on Good Counsel began during a bleak winter in 1980, when he met our founder, Christopher Bell, at Covenant House in New York City. Moved by the desperate plight of homeless mothers and babies, Fr. Benedict didn't just offer words—he offered help. “I’ll help you if you want to start a home,” he said. And he meant it.
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From those simple, faithful beginnings, Good Counsel was born. For nearly 40 years, his prayerful presence and steadfast leadership shaped our mission of offering shelter, dignity, and a future to mothers in need. As the founding chairman of our board, he helped launch the Daystar program—an extraordinary home for pregnant women battling mental illness or addiction, an endeavor made possible because of his courage and compassion.

His wit was as sharp as his wisdom. He once told Mother Teresa that he was always tired. “How long do you sleep?” she asked. “Four hours,” he said. She replied, “That’s the problem. You sleep too much!” He loved retelling that story, a glimpse into his blend of humility and humor.

Fr. Benedict often said he looked forward to purgatory because it reminded him of Jersey City. It was this blend of gritty realism and supernatural hope that made him so relatable—and so holy.

Today, his voice still echoes through his writings, his talks, and through every mother and child whose life was changed at Good Counsel. Though he was never formally canonized, many believe Fr. Benedict Groeschel was a saint. Certainly, he lived and loved like one.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the anniversary of his birth as we do each year. A special Mass will be held at Most Blessed Sacrament Friary, 375 13th Avenue, Newark, NJ, on Saturday, July 26th, 2025 at 10:30 AM, followed by a luncheon. All are welcome to attend and honor the legacy of a priest who gave so much to so many. Click here to learn more or register.

May he rest in the peace of the Lord he served so faithfully. And may we continue his mission, one mother and one baby at a time.

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Good Counsel Homes continues the work Fr. Benedict helped begin, offering support, shelter, and hope to homeless, pregnant women in need. Learn more or support our mission at goodcounselhomes.org.

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