Franciscan Friars of the Renewal

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About the Franciscan Friars | A Day with the Franciscan Friars | Contact the Friars

Friars in front of St. Joseph's Friary

The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal are a men's community, living in accordance with St. Francis of Assisi's original ideal of religious life. The friars observe strict poverty, owning nothing but two habits and a pair of sandals. The community itself has no possessions, and operates entirely on Divine Providence. Even the buildings in which they live and work are not owned by the community, but are used "on loan" from benefactors.

As part of their witness to their detachment from the world, the friars wear a plain grey Franciscan habit and usually shave their heads and grow beards. Based in New York, the community has recently expanded to friaries in Honduras and Cannington, England.

Closeup of one of the friars

The friars' primary apostolate is service of the poor, such as operating shelters for the homeless, missions, soup kitchens, etc. Another apostolate is preaching and evangelization. Among their various forms of evangelization, the friars witness to the dignity and value of human life, engaging in pro-life work such as praying before abortion clinics and sidewalk counseling.

The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal also work in conjuction with the Youth 2000 movement, a revival for young people of the Eucharistic 40-hour devotion, which provides teenagers with a weekend retreat consisting of talks, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and Confessions. By preaching at these retreats, the friars encourage young people to grow in enthusiasm and love for their faith.

About the Franciscan Friars | A Day with the Franciscan Friars | Contact the Friars

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