The following is an excerpt from an interview by Renata Steffens for The Irish Catholic on August 29, 2024
https://www.irishcatholic.com/i-felt-a-deeper-calling-to-serve-franciscan-brother-says
The Franciscans in Killarney heard the first professions of five Brothers on August 15. They lived in Ireland for a year volunteering and helping the community, and now are back to their countries. One of the five brothers, Bro. Vincent McDonnell talked to The Irish Catholic about his experience in Ireland, his background, his faith and about the future after making his vows.
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Q: What does it mean to you to live a faithful life?
A: To me, living a faithful life means serving God and others.
Q: Could you comment on your faith and daily life—the sacrifice, obedience, and love of God?
A: It was a big change at the beginning. Going from attending Mass a few times a week and trying to pray on my own to adhering to a structured schedule of prayer was difficult at first, but it just took time. Learning to live a life of prayer, being obedient, and moving to Ireland for my novitiate year was challenging. However, trusting in my provincial and formation team made it easier to obey the decision to do my novitiate year in Ireland.
Q: What made you decide to leave your social work job and follow your vocation?
A: My passion for working with the homeless was a major part of my life, and it’s something that still drives me. However, I felt a deeper calling to serve not just through social work but through a spiritual vocation that would allow me to integrate my faith more fully into my service. Becoming a Franciscan seemed like the natural path to deepen my commitment to those in need. A quote I live by, often attributed to St Francis, says, “Preach the Gospel always; use words when necessary.” My experience in social work embodies this idea. It taught me that evangelisation isn’t just about speaking the Gospel but living it through actions—showing Christ’s love through compassion, understanding, and service.
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Q: How was your relationship with the other novices? Did you become friends?
A: My co-novices were the greatest gift I received. They were a great group of guys, and I will miss them deeply. We became close friends over the year, and there is no doubt that we will keep in touch.
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