Roots and connections: the Capuchin Order
The Capuchins are moved by the Gospel. Their brown habit, the habit of the order, refers to St Francis of Assisi.
Francis of Assisi became known as the "brother of all men" at the beginning of the 13th century. Like Jesus, he wanted to be poor. He lived the gospel simply and with commitment. Many men joined his new way of life at the time. The Order of Friars Minor was founded.
The question of how to be a true and simple brother of St Francis and of the people was one that repeatedly divided opinion. This is why the Capuchin Friars Minor movement was founded in the 16th century. They lived in hermitages. They modelled themselves on the intense prayer life of St Francis.
From there, they went out to the people. They were soon held in high esteem: as people-orientated and down-to-earth. As men of simple prayer and clear words.
The German Capuchin Province, with almost 160 brothers in eighteen branches, is represented by a provincial. The Capuchins in Germany are active in pastoral care. They hold retreats, lectures and sermons. They are particularly involved in social work.
„The life and rule of the lesser brethren is this, namely, to observe the holy gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ ...“St Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)
