Franciscan Friars of the Renewal

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The Community of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal or CFR are a Roman Catholic mendicant branch of the Order of the Capuchin Franciscans. This order's members are also known as the Friars of the Renewal.

A relatively new congregation, the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, was founded Founded in 1987 by eight Capuchin priests including Father Stan Fortuna and Father Benedict Groeschel.

It is also a fast growing order with around 110 friars at present.

They are a worldwide community with Friars from places such as USA, Canada, England, Germany, Poland, Ireland, France, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic,Lebanon, and Italy.

In 2007 they had the biggest ordination class yet, with seven priests being welcomed to the Holy Priesthood.

They are located in the New York City Metropolitan Area such as the Bronx, Yonkers, Harlem, as well as Honduras and London and Bradford, England. As of 2007 they have just opened in Albuquerque New Mexico, Texas and Ireland.

The Friars of the Renewal wear gray religious habits with hoods, a belt, and sandals. Long beards are also characteristic of the order.

The community was founded for a return to the authentic Capuchin way of life and the renewal of the Catholic Church. In addition, the friars are known for their fidelity to the Pope. The Community characterises itself as Catholic, Franciscan, Capuchin, Contemplative, Prophetic, Apostolic, Fraternal and Pro-Life.

Their work is focused on the poor and with youth.

The Franciscan Sisters of Renewal began in 1988 and are also based in the Bronx.

The Franciscans of the Renewal were significantly involved during the September 11, 2001 crisis in Manhattan. On September 12, 2001, a group of friars from the Order walked the subway tunnels to Manhattan.