"If anyone wishes to
come after me, let him
deny himself,  take up
his cross and follow me"
Matthew 16:24
"If you will be perfect go,
sell what you have, give it
to the poor, and you shall
have treasure in heaven,
and come, follow me"
Matthew 19:21
BECOMING A CAPUCHIN FRANCISCAN FRIAR

Friar means brother.  To become a Capuchin Franciscan Friar is to answer God's   
call to a life of Gospel brotherhood according to the example of St. Francis of         
Assisi and the Capuchin tradition.  

After a period of discernment with the Vocation Director, a man may begin the        
 application process.  This involves completing the application form, an interview
with the Provincial Minister, psychological testing and some other requirements.

After acceptance into the Province, a candidate must complete the following          
 initial formation program.

 Postulancy:  Usually a period of 12 months in which a man lives with the friars         
 participating in their life of fraternity, prayer and service.  There are classes for     
 them during the week that help in their spiritual life and their knowledge of the     
 faith and Capuchin way of life.  The period of time for Postulancy could be               
 extended if a man is not ready for Novitiate.

 Novitiate:  This is accomplished in collaboration with other provinces.  It begins     
 with a three month period of preparation then formally begins the first week of      
 Advent when a man receives the habit and title "Brother" and it is expected to      
 begin to live the vowed life.  It is an intense experience of fraternity and prayer.    
 There are classes in religious and Capuchin life with outgoing spiritual direction   
 and supervision.

 Temporary Profession of Vows:  At the end of the Novitiate year, believing that         
 God has called them to be a Capuchin Franciscan Friar and accepted by the           
 Provincial Minister, a man professes the vows of poverty, chastity and                     
 obedience for three years.  During the first two years of this time of formation, all  
 temporary professed friars live together.  They participate in the regular life of a   
 Capuchin friar seeking to deepen their vocation to this way of life.  During the       
 third year of temporary profession, a friar is assigned to another of our houses      
 to continue to grow in the life.  At the end of his time in temporary vows which       
 could extend up to six years, but usually does not exceed four years, a friar            
 perpetually professes his vows for life.
Vocation Ministry