This past Labor Day weekend, we were blessed to host an amazing Come and See Retreat in Santa Ynez, where five incredible men joined us to explore their call to religious life with the Capuchin Franciscan Friars. It was truly a weekend filled with deep prayer, reflection, and joyful moments of fraternity. We are so grateful to everyone who participated and made this retreat an unforgettable experience.
Over the course of the retreat, our guests experienced what it means to live as a Capuchin friar. From the stillness of morning prayer to the shared joy of recreation, we were able to connect on a deeper level with each other and with God. The rhythm of daily Mass, the Divine Office, and time for personal reflection allowed each participant to draw closer to the Lord and discern how He is calling them.
The weekend wasn’t just about prayer, though—it was also filled with fun and fellowship! We shared meals, stories, and laughter, enjoying simple but meaningful recreation activities that helped strengthen the bonds of brotherhood. Whether it was playing sports or engaging in conversations about life and faith, every moment was a reminder of the joy that comes from living in community.
Each of the men who joined us brought their own unique gifts and stories. As they move forward in their discernment journey, we pray that God will continue to guide them, opening their hearts to His will. It’s always inspiring to witness how God works in the lives of those discerning religious life, and we are excited to see where He will lead each of these men.
A big thank you to everyone who helped make this retreat possible! Your prayers, support, and dedication to the vocation ministry are invaluable. We also want to extend our gratitude to the five participants for their openness to God’s call and for making this weekend so special. May God bless each of you as you continue to listen to His voice.
If you’re considering a vocation or curious about the Capuchin Franciscan way of life, we invite you to join us for our next Come and See Retreat, happening October 4-6 in Berkeley, CA! This will be a special weekend as we celebrate the Feast Day of our founder, St. Francis of Assisi. It’s a perfect time to reflect on his legacy and how his spirit continues to inspire our community today.
Register today for this meaningful opportunity to discern your calling and experience life as a friar: Capuchins West – Vocations
Come and See Retreat
📅 October 4-6, 2024
📍 Berkeley, CA
✨ Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi
We look forward to welcoming you!
