On July 20, seventeen men received the "clothes of probation" and began their novitiate year at San Lorenzo Friary in Santa Ynez, CA. Among the novices were four from the Province of St. Conrad: Br. Montie Chavez, Br. Hank Fagnant, Br. Jordan Schmeidler, and Br. Julian Torres. For the next year, the brothers will spend a great deal of time in prayer, spiritual formation, and learning about the history and spirituality of St. Francis and the Capuchin reform. During this time they will have limited ministry and contact with the outside world in order to better make the definitive choice for the Capuchin life and prepare for the temporary profession of vows. Please keep the novices in prayer as they begin this special year.