Michael Franzese, 74, was known as the “Prince of the Mafia” in the 1980s before serving prison time on state racketeering, tax conspiracy and gasoline bootlegging charges. A prison guard handed Franzese a Bible that would influence him to change his lifestyle and leave the Mafia.

Now motivational speaker, Franzese said it was his fourth time visiting a Catholic Church Monday night. After sharing his life story with guests, he signed copies of his autobiography, “Blood Covenant: The Michael Franzese Story,” in the church lobby.

Father Brian L. Warchola said he couldn’t have been happier with the event’s turnout.

“I love bringing speakers in, and he was somebody unique I wanted to bring in,” he said.

Former Mafia boss Michael Franzese signs copies of his autobiography "Blood Covenant" for a reader. Mirror photo by Colette Costlow.

Warchola contacted Franzese through the Catholic Speakers Organization, a website that features speakers who tell their personal stories at Catholic parishes or events.

He said more guests than usual attended Monday night’s event, with about 500 to 600 people filling the pews.

Mike Perehinec of Altoona, who previously worked at the federal prison in Loretto, was pleased with Franzese’s presentation.

“These guys always say, ‘I found the Lord.’ He seems like he’s living it,” Perehinec said.

He said his sister-in-law suggested attending the event, and when he found out that Franzese was a former prisoner before turning to religion, Perehinec said he was sold.

Former Mafia boss Michael Franzese stands with guests after the speech for a photo. Mirror photo by Colette Costlow.

One of the biggest takeaways he had from Franzese’s story was to trust in a bigger purpose, as the former mob boss had nearly died in previous instances.

Ebensburg residents Tina Beck and Dot Bothell also thought Franzese’s resilience was amazing, considering his former life in the Mafia.

“To live this life now is amazing,” she said.

It wasn’t Beck’s first time hearing a unique speaker present at Holy Name Church, as she’s attended almost every one of

Warchola’s events. She praised Warchola’s efforts in bringing the community closer to their faith through religious motivational speakers.

“We’re so blessed to have him,” she said. “He brings so much to the parish.”

Community members can learn more about how others succeed despite treacherous circumstances, Bothell said.

They both agreed that bringing in speakers also positively affects local children as well.

“It’s great,” Beck said. “We never had anything like this when we were kids.”

Mirror Staff Writer Colette Costlow is at 814-946-7414.