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PAUL HANBRIDGE OFM Cap

I was born in Annandale (Sydney) 21 August 1952 and am the youngest of three. Our family lived in Leichhardt (inner western suburb of Sydney), quite a different place then to what it is nowadays. After lower primary at St. Columba’s (North Leichhardt), all the rest of my schooling was with the Christian Brothers - first Balmain, then St. Mary’s Cathedral. All my life I was going to be a geologist. So much for that (It’s a long story).

Off to the Capuchin Seminary 20 February 1972, second year after leaving High School. I was very keen, very sure. I remember the early nights took a lot of adjustment.

I have many fond and funny memories of those early years. I wouldn’t say it was all easy, for much of the time I didn’t feel so sure or so keen.

Why did I join the Capuchins originally?

The Capuchins were the only religious community of men that I knew something about (the parish next door) ... and I liked the "Peace Prayer of St. Francis". Looking back God had to lead me along patiently and gradually to replace my original good intentions with His own reasons for His giving me the Capuchin habit. I am happy to be a friar, because God has brought me to this life and has "bent over backwards" to show Himself to me. I would not swap with anyone in the world. Today I am where I am for His reasons and not my own. To know this, I believe, is one of the greatest gifts any person can have in this life. I am no longer a friar for my own reasons, but for His.

Hobbies and interests?

Too many to remember! I will try most things once, and have tried lots of things once only. Slightly eccentric (I am told). Complicated in some ways, but not sophisticated. Have always been reflective, but not always clear in thought and expression. I am quieter nowadays, but still passionate about some things. I can contradict myself significantly any time I have to open my mouth. I can’t decide little matters easily, and generally don’t bother to do so, if possible. If there is a hard way to do something, I will find it. Much of my mental effort is expended on discovering things that have always been obvious to others.

For the future?

Br Paul in a lighter moment!

That is largely in the hands of God. I have come to see a little of where He has been working in my past – and very often despite myself. What always looked like mud is beginning to appear like gold, because the action of His love is now discernible in some measure.

Our Australian Province of Capuchin Friars is at a crossroads. To follow where He is leading is always a great and exciting adventure. Our life in Australia is broadening in its emphases - not to discover new novelties, but I believe, because God is leading us yet again to rediscover the obvious about the gift of the Capuchin life - not just for us, but for the Church and the world.

If you haven’t dropped off reading this, congratulations. Let me make a promise to you, based on my little experience: Where God calls, He provides.

To everyone who searches for Him, He lets Himself be found. Take courage. You will find that the Holy Spirit is rather busy in the Church today, and that Jesus is truly present in your own little parish, with all its human poverty. After all, He was born in a stable. May the Lord bless you and give you His peace.

 

 

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