A significant milestone was reached on Thursday this week as five young men took their first vows as Franciscan friars at the Killarney Friary.

After completing a year-long novitiate in Killarney, Brothers Christophe Samois (Belgium), Vianney Berlozot (France), Giovanni Haddas (Netherlands), Vincent McConnell (Canada), and Thomas-Maria Kessler (Switzerland) will made their professions on the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

The novitiate year is a formative period for young men discerning a vocation to religious life. It involves prayer, communal living, and study, providing a foundation for future ministry.

The five novices have spent the past year immersed in Franciscan spirituality, theology, and history, as well as engaging in pastoral work within the local community.

Following their first profession, the brothers will return to their home provinces or countries to continue their formation before making their final vows.

Novice Master, Fr. Antony Jukes of Killarney Friary guided the young men throughout their novitiate, accompanying them on their spiritual journey.

The Franciscan Friary in Killarney has a long tradition of professions and welcomed the opportunity to celebrate this important step in the lives of these five young men.