Capuchin Franciscan Friars
"The Lord gave me some brothers." This is the simple way in which St. Francis chose to describe the beginning of his Order. The men who followed his way of life were not to be 'followers' nor 'disciples', but brothers.
The community life of Capuchins all over the world is rooted in the spirit of loving brotherhood - even though many of the friars are priests. We are all called to live the simple Gospel lifestyle of spirituality in community. The Cross is never absent from community life. Our life-pattern is based not on human standards. We are empowered through faith to look beyond human frailty to the presence of Christ in our brothers and in every human being.
In every Capuchin community there is an atmosphere of family togetherness. This is a tremendous source of support in facing the pressures of modern ministry and work. Our work is varied and, among other things, includes parish work, social and youth work, giving missions and retreats, chaplaincies (hospitals, schools, prisons, universities, army, port and docks), missionary work in Zambia, South Africa, New Zealand and Korea. All our work is an expression of our common gospel life which we live in poverty, chastity and obedience.
Our friaries are joyful, hospitable, homely places. There is genuine human warmth and encouragement, with a good deal of fun, laughter and music. Each friar is made to feel loved, appreciated and accepted. He is helped to grow both as a human being and as a responsible friar. Special care is shown to teh sick and elderly. Praying together is a vital part of our brotherhood. With the people we pray the sacred liturgy daily. For us it is the joyous celebration of praise and thanksgiving.
Franciscan prayer, coming from the heart, leads us to the loving contemplation of God, the Supreme Good. The Eucharist is the chief source of our life together. We honour Mary because of her place in the Incarnation. She is the Queen and Patroness of our Order, the way to the spirit of the poor and crucified Christ.
The Capuchin Franciscan Friars of Ireland are a branch of the First Order of Friars Minor, founded in Italy by St. Francis of Assisi in 1209. We came to Ireland in the 17th century and have worked for and with the Irish people ever since.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Capuchin way of life feel free to call in to any of our friaries. Alternatively, contact our director of vocations who will be glad to answer any inquiries you may have. His address is:
Br. Byran Shortall, OFM Cap.
Capuchin Friary
Rochestown
Cork.
Tel: (021) 4896244
Email: vocations
irishcapuchins.com
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