Who We Are

Even if you have known Capuchin friars for a long time, it wouldn't be surprising if you found them somewhat mysterious. The Catholic Church has many religious Orders and communities of men. So what makes Capuchins different? Aren't they Franciscans? And how are they different from diocesan priests? It can all be confusing even for those who are well-versed in Catholic life.

Maybe you can recognize a Capuchin because of the curious, medieval clothing he wears, but you might wonder what makes him tick on the inside. Come to think about it, why do they wear that robe? And you might ask why anyone would want to be a Capuchin friar in this day and age. Is there a point to a bunch of men living together? Why don't they get married like normal people? And then there's the money thing? Like everyone else they need it, but they take a vow of poverty. How does that work?

If you aren't familiar with the Catholic Church you might wonder whom these guys follow? Anyway, what's so great about that man named St. Francis of Assisi? And what does he have to do with Jesus Christ? You might suspect that an organization founded in the Middle Ages should be dying out because it couldn't possibly have any meaning for people today. Guess again!

If you've wondered or were curious or didn't want to offend by asking, this may be the place for you to begin to look around and see just what a Capuchin is.