Capuchin Franciscans - Province of Mid-America | 3613 Wyandot St. Denver, CO 80211
303.477.5436 (tel) | 303.477.6925 (fax) | contact@capuchins.org
Copyright © 2013. All Rights Reserved.
“Road to the Robe” was filmed for the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. The video recounts
the stories of how several Mid-America friars experienced God’s call to become Capuchin
Franciscans, the major influences in discerning that call, and how they have lived
out that call in their day to day lives.
Running time: 12:22
Franciscans 1209
Capuchins trace their heritage back 800 years to the little poor man of Assisi, whom
history knows as perhaps the most clear imitator of Christ. St. Francis of Assisi
followed Jesus’ footsteps so closely and loved humanity and all creation so deeply
that he is known as “the universal saint.” He began the Order of Friars Minor, literally
“lesser brothers,” in 1209 and quickly gave them a Rule of Life, which he Pope orally
approved that same year. With St. Clare of Assisi, Francis co-founded the Poor Clares.
He also established the Secular Franciscan Order.
Capuchins 1528
The Capuchin Franciscan Order (O.F.M.Cap.) began in 1528 as a renewal of the Order
of Friars Minor. Capuchin Franciscan friars desired more contemplative prayer and
stricter poverty, but they were also fervent preachers of the Gospel and compassionate
servants of the sick and suffering of their day. Attracting followers through their
preaching, prayer, austerity, and ministry among the poor, the new community grew
rapidly and soon spread throughout all of Europe. As of 31 December 2008, there were10,590
professed Capuchins worldwide, as well as 363 novices and 558 postulants. In North
America there were 773 professed friars.
The History of the Capuchin Franciscans - Province of Mid-America
