Franciscan Monks who listen to funk and play punk? Anything is possible in 2007. At a time when parishioners are fighting to keep their churches open in Harlem, the friaries are continuing to grow.
In an average year, several hundred potential candidates discover the order through its Web site, www.franciscanfriars.com, or its television show on the Eternal Word Television Network, and about 30 men ask to join. Typically 12 to 15 are accepted.
The Monks, who take a vow of poverty, chastity and obedience, beg for their food and accept donations for their basic necessities:
The friars rely particularly on asking for expired food at local supermarkets and on the generosity of a network of donors who call themselves the “friar suppliers,” to whom they are appropriately grateful.
The order maintains 3 friaries in New York, two in the Bronx and St. Joseph’s Friary on West 142nd Street in Harlem.
“Trying to pray in our chapel at 142nd Street,” Postulant Andy explained, “you’re hearing car alarms and people pumping music.”
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Photo credit: James Estrin/The New York Times
Posted on April 23, 2007 by D. Bell