Capuchins
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Capuchins are the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, a Franciscan mendicant institute emphasizing contemplative prayer, evangelical simplicity, minority, fraternity, and closeness to the poor.
Franciscan reform
The Capuchin reform received papal approval in 1528 and became one of the three principal male branches of the Franciscan First Order. Capuchins profess public vows under Saint Francis's Rule and their constitutions, seeking a life of prayer, penance, poverty, fraternity, preaching, and service among ordinary people.[1]
The O.F.M. Cap. is clerical in law but includes priests and lay brothers within the same fraternity. Capuchin Poor Clares and the Secular Franciscan Order are related branches, not members governed as friars of the male institute.[2]
Government as brotherhood
The General Chapter holds supreme authority and elects the General Minister. Provinces, custodies, and local fraternities are governed by ministers, custodes, guardians, and councils according to the constitutions, which describe authority as service to communion and mission.
References
- Back to citation Capuchin Constitutions — Official constitutions, including identity, profession, branches, and government.
- Back to citation Capuchin Life in Fraternity — Official account of chapters, ministries, priests, and brothers.