For those discerning a religious calling, the image can be an inspiring depiction of a life devoted to faith and fraternity within the Capuchin Order.
A joyous gathering of Capuchin friars after the Holy Mass for the Profession of Vows to the Capuchin way of life in Davao City, Philippines. The group stands before a beautifully prepared altar, celebrating a significant spiritual milestone.
On July 15, 2025, the Feast of St. Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, the Lord blessed the Capuchin Order with five new brothers professing the Capuchin way of life. Br. Edgar Martinez, ofmcap., received vows from brothers Joseph Kua Toby, Martin Chiae, and Emel Kumuno Willie from Papua New Guinea, and Br. Jasson Alexander Philip from the Philippine Province. Meanwhile, Br. Gilbert James, ofmcap., received the vows of Br. Matius Lawrence Derick Goh Shaw Chian from the Custody of Malaysia. This sacred profession took place at the Padre Pio Fraternity in Davao City, drawing brothers from General Santos City in joyful attendance.

St. Bonaventure embodied profound personal holiness and a passionate love for St. Francis’s original vision. He dedicated himself to ensuring the Franciscan spirit would not only survive but thrive. By building a strong, unified structure for the Order, he safeguarded its unique charism—a divinely inspired gift—and deeply rooted it in sound theological principles. Thanks to his efforts, the Franciscan way of life flourishes within a sustainable, effective framework.

When a Capuchin makes his vows, he commits to following Christ intimately and faithfully, just as St. Francis did. These vows are more than promises; they are a Gospel lived daily, embraced within a close community of brothers sharing fraternal love and mission. Taking these vows marks a friar’s readiness to serve the Church and all humanity, especially the poor and marginalized.

This journey—from novice to temporary vows—is a continual act of discernment, a response to God’s call, grounded in holiness and fidelity to the Franciscan charism. Like St. Bonaventure himself, the Capuchin walks this path with heart and mind united, ensuring the Franciscan spirit shines brightly through both personal witness and strong communal life.