The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, founded by well-known spiritual teacher Fr. Benedict Groeschel CFR two decades ago, will open their first friary in Ireland in Moyross in Limerick next week.The Friars, known for their work in tough urban areas such as their base in the South Bronx in New York, are sending five friars, Br. Shawn O'Connor, the head of the community, Fr. Paulus, Br. Martin, Br. Seraphim and Fr. Sylvester.
Speaking to ciNews about the new initiative, Br Shawn said that the friars had been made very welcome by the community so far.
“People wave at us, and honk their horns, a man living across the street from us has given us many gifts, so we've been made feel very welcome,” he said.
Br O'Connor said that the friars “hope to be a peaceful presence in the area, and to bring hope”.
“Prayer life is the most important part of our mission, and we hope that speaks to the people,” he added.
He said that he was not perturbed by some of the bad press that Moyross has had. “We don't buy into the media stereotypes about the area,” Br O'Connor said. “The good people here far outnumber the bad.”
The friary will be opened on Saturday 18th August. The official opening of St. Patrick’s Friary will be celebrated with a Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Moyross, Limerick at 2.30pm.
The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal were founded in New York's South Bronx by eight Capuchin Friars in 1987.
Their mission is to serve the materially poor and to evangelise in the Church through preaching and teaching the Gospel, and by sharing the rich treasures of the Catholic faith with all.
Well-known for their work with the poor and homeless in the South Bronx, New York, and other deprived areas, these Franciscans communicate a deep sense of the joy and love of those trying to be totally committed to living the Gospel in an increasingly de-Christianized world.
Br. Shawn and the Friars wish to thank everyone in the Limerick Diocese who has made them so welcome especially Bishop Donal Murray and Parish Priest, Fr Frank O’ Dea.
They particularly wish to thank the City Corporation for their enormous practical help with settling into Limerick.
Bishop of Limerick Donal Murray said that he was “delighted to know that the Franciscan presence in Limerick will continue to be strong”.
He noted St Francis' vision in 1205 which launched the Franciscan order coincided with the foundation of the Cathedral Chapter of Limerick.
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