OFM
Order of Friars Minor
Province of St. Thomas the Apostle, India
Joy is Being Franciscan
Joy is Being Franciscan
At St. Louis’ Novitiate in Palamaner, the first months of formation are dedicated to grounding the novices in the Franciscan way of life—following Jesus in humility, simplicity, and love for the poor. As part of this formation, the novices regularly serve at the St. Anthony’s Bread Centre, a ministry located on the St. Louis Parish Campus that offers free lunch to those in need.
This experience is more than just an act of charity. It is a living classroom where young friars learn what it means to serve with dignity, meet people with love, and build relationships that reflect the Gospel.
The Bread Centre is carried forward in honour of Br. Marianus, a friar remembered with deep love for reaching out to countless people in this region—especially prisoners and those living on the margins of society. His compassionate presence and tireless service touched many lives and left a lasting imprint on the community.
To keep the mission and spirit of Br. Marianus alive,
Mrs. Arogyamma and Mr. John — moved by their admiration for his life—have generously initiated and supported this ministry. Their desire is simple yet profound:
to continue the work of love and compassion that Br. Marianus embodied.
Through their commitment, the Bread Centre stands today as a living tribute to his legacy.
Each afternoon, the Bread Centre welcomes those who struggle for a daily meal—daily wage workers, travellers, the elderly, patients’ attendants, and the poor. A simple, nutritious meal is prepared and served with joy, respect, and Franciscan hospitality.
The novices assist the friars and volunteers in this service, learning that ministry is not only about filling stomachs but also about offering dignity, attention, and human warmth.
Serving here teaches the novices that true ministry grows through:
A warm greeting
A sincere smile
Learning to speak a few simple words in the local language
Listening to someone’s story
Treating every person as a brother or sister
Even when language becomes a barrier, kindness becomes a bridge. A single phrase like “Bagunnara?”—How are you? opens doors to friendship and belonging.
The novices witness small yet powerful acts of kindness—moments that remain with them forever:
A woman once shared half her meal with a man who arrived late and found no food left.
Someone in line said, “At the government canteen we pay ₹5, but here we receive not only food—we receive love and respect.”
Locals stop the novices on the way, calling them “Mana Thamudu”—Our little brother, reminding them of the bonds built through simple acts of service.
These moments help them understand St. Francis’ timeless insight:
“For it is in giving that we receive.”
Through the Bread Centre ministry, the novices discover that love is not an abstract idea.
It takes flesh in:
A kind word
A plate of warm food
A smile that welcomes
A gesture of sharing
A willingness to learn from the poor
This ministry forms their hearts and shapes their lives as Franciscan friars called to serve with humility and compassion.
The St. Louis Bread Centre is more than a food initiative.
It is:
A community of compassion
A place of encounter and belonging
A school of Franciscan spirituality
A living memorial to Br. Marianus, whose life continues to inspire service
A mission sustained through the generosity of people like Mrs. Arogyamma and Mr. John
Here, the poor become teachers, friendships are formed, and young friars learn what it truly means to serve in the spirit of Christ and St. Francis.
