At general chapter, Capuchins look at reviving order's European roots

Published: 2006-08-30

ROME (CNS) -- After years of substantial growth in Asia and Africa, Capuchin Franciscans are turning new attention to reviving the order's European roots. More than 170 representatives of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin began a three-week general chapter in Rome Aug. 27 to elect a new head of the order and set objectives for the next six years. The meeting brought together representatives from the nearly 11,000 Capuchins working in 101 countries around the world. Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley of Boston, the only Capuchin cardinal, celebrated the chapter's opening Mass. He said in a homily that the Capuchins of today must continue to be inspired by St. Francis' example of "love taken to the extreme." The Capuchin vocation, Cardinal O'Malley said, is to be "on fire with love for Christ and zeal for souls, willing to take the last place, the worst job, the most dangerous position." Canadian Father John Corriveau, who is leaving as Capuchin minister-general after 12 years, gave a lengthy report Aug. 28 detailing the state of the order and suggesting future strategies.

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