The Beginning in Mountbellew
In 1869, in the small village of Mountbellew, County Galway, Ireland, a group of devoted men gathered under the guidance of Bishop John McEvilly to establish a religious community dedicated to education and service.
These men, inspired by the Franciscan tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, committed themselves to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience, while serving the educational needs of the local community.
The Mountbellew Agricultural College became their first foundation, where they taught practical skills alongside spiritual formation, preparing young men for lives of service and faith.
Our Journey Through Time
Foundation in Mountbellew
The Franciscan Brothers are established in Mountbellew, Ireland, beginning their mission of education and service to the local community.
Expansion of Educational Mission
The brothers establish additional schools throughout Ireland, focusing on agricultural education and vocational training for rural youth.
Growth in Ireland
The community expands significantly, establishing schools and serving parishes throughout Ireland, becoming a recognized force in Catholic education.
Arrival in Brooklyn
Responding to the needs of the growing Irish-American community, brothers begin ministry in Brooklyn, New York, bringing their educational mission to America.
Expanding Mission in America
The brothers establish schools, parishes, and social service ministries throughout the New York area, touching thousands of lives through education and service.
Continuing the Mission
The Franciscan Brothers continue their work in education, parish ministry, and service to those in need, living out their charism in the modern world.
Our Franciscan Values
Poverty
Living simply and sharing our resources with those in need, following Christ's example of detachment from material possessions.
Chastity
Dedicating our hearts entirely to God and His people, loving with the freedom and generosity of Christ.
Obedience
Listening to God's will through our superiors and the needs of the Church, surrendering our desires to serve His purposes.
Fraternity
Living in community as brothers, supporting one another in prayer and service, reflecting the communion of the Trinity.
Our Legacy Today
Today, the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn continue the sacred tradition begun in Mountbellew over 150 years ago. Our brothers serve in schools, parishes, and ministries throughout the New York area, living out the charism of St. Francis in the modern world.
We remain committed to our founding mission: to educate, to serve, and to pray. Through our vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, we witness to the Gospel values that have guided us since our beginning.
The Holy Eucharist remains the center of our life and mission. In the Blessed Sacrament, we find the strength to serve, the wisdom to teach, and the love to embrace all whom we encounter.