Who we are
Serving with humility, prayer, and compassion, following St. Francis’ footsteps.
The Capuchin Franciscans are a Roman Catholic religious order founded in the 16th century as a reform of the Franciscan Order. Inspired by the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, they are dedicated to living a simple, humble life of prayer, fraternity, and service to others, especially the poor and marginalized.
Their name, “Capuchin,” comes from the distinctive hooded habit (capuche) they wear, symbolizing their commitment to a life of poverty and humility.
Capuchins focus on preaching the Gospel, providing pastoral care, and engaging in various charitable works, such as running soup kitchens, hospitals, and schools. Their mission is to embody the love of Christ through service, prayer, and living in solidarity with those in need.
Rooted in the Franciscan tradition, the Capuchin Franciscans strive to bring hope, peace, and compassion to the world, following the example of their founder, St. Francis, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“We attend simply and directly to the spiritual and other basic human needs…”
Our life is rooted in deep commitment: to God, to our Savior Jesus Christ, to the Franciscan philosophy, to the individuals we serve and to those who serve with us.
Francis of Assisi created a community of equality whose mission was to proclaim that the Good News is available to all people, especially those shunned by society. Nearly 800 years later, the Capuchins continue to build on this Franciscan tradition through prayer, contemplation, preaching, and caring for the needy. Today we preach, teach, cook, and counsel. We minister in hospitals, schools, soup kitchens, parishes, and in the mission fields. We are pastors, artists, missionaries, farmers, mechanics, and writers.
All people are meant to enjoy the gifts of God’s creation. This is the foundation of Capuchin-Franciscan life. Our will to serve faithfully is sustained by our living a chaste, communal life. Morning praise, evening thanksgiving, and regular Eucharist are staples of our community prayer. By choice, our lifestyle is simple, but don’t confuse simple with harsh. In spite of our vow of poverty, we have the things we need and have enough to ensure a healthy and complete lifestyle. We recognize the need to take care of ourselves if we are to be of service to others.
We try to promote the equality of all people within our brotherhood, the church, and the world.
Our lives reflect the Beatitudes. The needs of the poor and the demands of justice shape our ministries.
- Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 3)
- Blessed are the meek: for they shall posses the land. (Verse 4)
- Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Verse 5)
- Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. (Verse 6)
- Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Verse 7)
- Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. (Verse 8)
- Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Verse 9)
- Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Verse 10)