How many Catholic seminaries do you know? Capuchin College is a national Catholic seminary. It is located right here in Washington D.C. The Order of Friars Minor Capuchin owns and administers it.
Capuchin College was built in the early 1900s. It serves as a house of Post-Novitiate training. The college belongs to the Capuchin Province of St. Augustine.
Notably, Capuchin College is close to several other important institutions. These include the Catholic University of America. It is also near the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The Dominican House of Studies and Theological College are nearby too.
Many notable individuals have passed through the halls of Capuchin College. Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley is one such alumnus. He is currently the Archbishop of Boston since 2003. Archbishop Charles J. Chaput also attended. He served as the Archbishop of Philadelphia from 2011 to 2020. Bishop John Dennis Corriveau is another notable figure. He was the Capuchin Minister General from 1994 to 2006.
The Capuchin College is more than just a seminary. It’s a place of international brotherhood. One friar described it as a religious hostel, or Hotel Capuchino. It is an IHOF, International House of Friars. The friars come from various countries and speak different languages. One can find over eight different languages spoken here. There are friars from fourteen different nationalities.
This diversity brings the blessings of friendship. It promotes fraternity among the friars. The American friars learn hospitality. They set aside their comforts to accommodate their brothers. Friars learn that the stranger is also their brother.
Capuchin College friars go out of their way to help newcomers. They decipher broken English. They use made-up sign language. They take trips to embassies, airports, and post offices. These acts unite them as true brothers.
Capuchin College stands as a testament to faith. It exemplifies international brotherhood. This is a place where men from all over the world come together. They pursue their calling in the heart of Washington D.C. The college is a beacon of light. It fosters growth and understanding.