Outreach to the Poor

The Son of God, accepting the form of a servant, did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life for the salvation of all. His self-abasement is perpetuated in the sacrament of the Eucharist, where he daily humbles himself and comes to us under humble appearances. Inwardly moved and amazed by God’s humility and compassion, Saint Francis chose to become lowly among the little ones. Following his example, and keenly desiring to be conformed to Christ, we too strive to be truly minor, never presuming to become greater. Inspired by this spirit, we seek to generously devote ourselves to the service of all, especially of those who suffer want and tribulation or even of those who persecute us.

 

Therefore we strive to gladly live our fraternal life among the poor, sharing their hard-ships and lowly condition with great love. While relieving their material and spiritual needs, in our lives, our work, and our words we desire to be devoted to promoting their human and Christian development. By doing this we manifest the spirit of our brotherhood in minority and at the same time become a leaven of justice, unity and peace.

​

— C.f. Constitutions of the Capuchin Friars Minor n. 14.