Capuchin Franciscan friar M.J. Groark to be ordained a deacon

Brother M.J. Groark, OFM Cap. will be ordained a Roman Catholic deacon during a rite of ordination celebrated at 2pm CT on Saturday, April 27, 2019 by Bishop Paul Schmitz, OFM Cap. at St. Clare of Montefalco Parish, 5443 S. Washtenaw Avenue.

Br. M.J. joined the Capuchins in 2009, leaving behind a grinding, high-pressure life in business that nearly consumed him. The road was not easy, nor was it straightforward. Br. M.J. hit rock bottom in Southern California following years of drug and alcohol abuse that left him jobless, destitute and homeless. After detox, rehab and continual reflection, Br. M.J. had an epiphany while attending Mass at St. Josaphat in Milwaukee in 2007. It was there, that Br. M.J. sensed that he was being called to something greater. From there, Br. M.J. entered the Catholic Church, then entered formation as a Capuchin friar and is now on the path to the priesthood.

Following ordination, Br. M.J. will continue on toward priestly ordination. “I feel very calm in this moment, because I see the call to diaconate ministry as just a natural evolution to what we’re called to as Capuchins, which is to be a servant to everyone,” said Br. M.J. “This life has been a blessing and allowed me to constantly be on this journey of purging and conversion and self-emptying. I’m very grateful for that.”

About the Capuchins

The Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph is a region of the worldwide order of Capuchin Franciscan friars covering the Midwestern United States with headquarters in Detroit. There are currently 163 friars serving in ministries such as soup kitchens, parishes, schools and retreat centers, in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Montana.  The Capuchins are funded primarily by donations, receiving no government assistance. www.theCapuchins.org