We believe Jesus called some Christians to witness to the kingdom as celibates. Like any form of Christian life, this has its challenges. For the Capuchins, this celibacy is lived within a fraternal life, where the friars strive to support each other. The friars also seek God’s help in prayer to remain faithful to their vow of chastity. They also nurture life-giving friendships, among themselves and with others, especially those with whom they minister.   While seeing marriage and family life as a beautiful gift, consecrated celibacy offers us the joyful and life-giving freedom to be completely available to serve God and his Church.   Living as celibates doesn’t mean we are just bachelors, but moreover, our vow of chastity calls us to love fully and wholeheartedly just as Christ has loved us. This allows a celibate to fully give himself up to the work God has asked him to do. In essence, you are given a bigger family – which is the people of the Church.