Traditional Capuchins of Morgon

A glimpse of the life of the "Capuchins of Traditional Observance" in Morgon, France

This is not official. Made and shared with permission by a visitor.

The friary was founded at Morgon in 1983 by Fr. Eugene de Villeurbanne, a Capuchin priest who wanted to preserve the austere traditional Franciscan life amidst the decadence of the 20th century.

Holy Mass in the True Roman Rite.
The Divine office is recited night and day.
Meditation twice a day.
Litanies, Daily Rosary, and other prayers.

The priests provide spiritual direction for many faithful, preach missions in other parishes, teach catechism in some schools.

The lay-brothers have many different jobs assisting the priests.

A contemplative life while at the same time, missionary.


"Seek ye therefore first the kingdom of God, and his justice, and all these things shall be added unto you."

Keeping with the vow of total poverty, the friars depend solely on donations of food and necessities. They've made it 40 years! (and the franciscan order has survived for 800 years)


"Even if there are only two or three, I will preserve the order"
Our Lord to Saint Francis.

Fr. Eugene de Villeurbanne was ostracized within his order for sticking to the traditional Capuchin constitutions, to which he vowed obedience when he became a friar in 1919.

He lived as a hermit for some years, but young men kept coming to him, desiring to live the traditional franciscan life. He took this as a sign from heaven.

He was eventually expelled from the revolutionizing Capuchin order for training young men to become traditional capuchin friars.
When Fr. Eugene was "suspended" in 1983, Archbishop Lefebvre threw his arm around him and said "now we are brothers!"

Church Authorities have not canonically recognized the Capuchins of Traditional Observance.
The friars acknowledge Pope Francis and prays for him.

Some priestly candidates are taught in the FSSPX seminary of Econe, and others are taught in-house, while still living under their rule.

Friars come from all over the world: France, Switzerland, Poland, Czechia, Spain, Argentina, Australia, South Africa, ...etc.

The monastery has 2 other foundations in France, one is the novitiate. For a total of about 40 friars.

An order of Capuchin poor Clares nearby is also tended by the priests, there are at least a dozen sisters there.


All the friars seem to be simple, humble, joyful religious. They've made the sacrifice of their lives and futures for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. By their prayers and penance, they are quietly raining down graces upon the whole earth.

If you are interested, write to them!

Dedicated to Maria del Buen Suceso de la Purificación. May She bring forth many holy vocations!