Seven Capuchin brothers renew vows in Karachi

Karachi: On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the Capuchin House in Karachi became a place of deep spiritual renewal as seven Capuchin brothers gathered to profess the vows that define their consecrated life. This occasion, marked by solemnity and reverence, was more than a ceremony; it was a profound moment of recommitment, where hearts and voices were lifted in surrender to God, in fidelity to Christ, and in renewed dedication to the mission of the Church.

The act of renewal of vows is one of the most meaningful steps in the journey of a religious person. It is not simply a ritual repetition of words once spoken but a spiritual reawakening. Through this act, the brothers reaffirmed their promises of chastity, poverty, and obedience, offering themselves once more to God in love and humility. Within the Capuchin tradition, which is deeply rooted in the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, this renewal carries an even greater weight. The Franciscan way emphasizes simplicity, poverty, service to others, and a life of prayerful union with God. Thus, the brothers’ decision to renew their vows was a visible sign of their desire to remain steadfast in living this spiritual path, both as individuals and as a community.

Also Read: Archdiocese Karachi Organizes Jubilee Program for Sisters

The ceremony was imbued with a strong sense of devotion. The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Ejaz Bashir OFM Cap, the Custos of the Capuchin Friars in Pakistan. During the Mass, the brothers—Br. Gibran John, Br. Kashif Masih, Br. Sheroz Ejaz, Br. Shaukat Sabir, Br. Isaac Amjad, Br. Azeem Mushtaq, and Br. Romil Sadiq—renewed their vows with humility and sincerity, placing their hands in the hands of the Custos as a gesture of total submission and commitment. This symbolic action served as a powerful reminder that their lives are consecrated entirely to God and that their vows are not temporary promises, but enduring commitments to live the Gospel radically.

In his homily, Fr. Ejaz Bashir reflected on the true essence of the religious vows. He emphasized that chastity, poverty, and obedience are not mere formalities or traditions but a deep union with Christ Himself. These vows, he explained, are signs of complete surrender, pointing to a way of life that finds its joy and fulfillment in God alone. A religious brother who renews his vows is essentially offering his heart, his mind, and his entire being to Christ once again. It is a call to live, to think, and to love only in Christ, thus becoming a living witness of God’s plan of salvation.

He went on to highlight that such vows are also a countercultural witness to the world. In a society that often equates happiness with wealth, status, and self-indulgence, the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience proclaim a different reality. They testify that true joy, peace, and freedom are found only when one entrusts everything into the hands of God. By embracing this life, religious brothers become beacons of hope and living signs of God’s kingdom among us.

The celebration was further enriched by the presence of Fr. Babar Shehzad OFM Cap, the Rector, who encouraged the brothers with words of support and spiritual strength. His presence, along with that of the wider Capuchin community, made the ceremony not only a personal renewal for the seven brothers but also a communal moment of grace. It reminded the entire fraternity of their shared calling to live in fidelity, humility, and missionary zeal.

The renewal of vows at Capuchin House thus became more than a moment of private devotion; it stood as a bright sign of perseverance and faith for the whole community. It was a reminder that religious life is not a one-time choice but a daily journey of rediscovering God’s will, of serving others selflessly, and of deepening one’s union with Christ. Such celebrations refresh the faith of all who witness them and inspire others to embrace the Gospel with renewed vigor.

As the ceremony concluded, prayers rose for the brothers who renewed their vows, asking Christ to grant them strength, wisdom, and steadfast fidelity. May they remain deeply rooted in the Franciscan spirit, living as instruments of peace and love, and may their lives continue to spread the light of the Gospel in a world that longs for God’s presence.

For more updates follow us on:

Like our Facebook Page
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on Twitter
Subscribe to us on YouTube
Join our WhatsApp Channel