The formation of Capuchin friars is becoming more and more of a collaborative effort among the provinces of North America. 

The directors of initial formation from the provinces of the North American and Pacific Capuchin Conference met in March to discuss how to increase their collaboration. Our Province is taking the following actions:

First, we are expanding our post-novitiate discernment program, which follows novitiate and precedes commencement of theological studies. 

The Province’s post-novitiate program aims to deepen the friar’s Capuchin identity first and foremost. It focuses on practicing our fraternal, contemplative, and ministerial life. This program debuted in Boston in 2020. Last year, we began collaborating with the Stigmata Province, moved the program to Brooklyn, and extended this formation phase from one year to two years. Now, other provinces are interested in joining this program, so we are moving it again, this time to Wilmington, Del., to accommodate more post-novices. The friary in Wilmington has 20 bedrooms, beautiful contemplative grounds, and is near multiple ministry sites.

Second, the Province is moving its theological studies from Boston College to The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Our brothers will live and do formation at Capuchin College (pictured above) with their peers from the Province of St. Augustine.

“This decision was to ensure our brothers in formation have sufficient peers for effective formation,” said Br. Lake Herman, provincial director of initial formation. “We need creative ways to support our brothers in formation as they discern their call. We believe collaborating with other provinces is the way forward.

“Saint Francis and Saint Clare, pray for us. Blessed Solanus Casey, pray for us.”