PERPETUAL VOWS ... and why do the Paulans have a fourth one?
29.08.2025
When we hear about religious vows, we usually think of these three: poverty, chastity, and obedience. The Order of the Little Brothers of St. Francis of Paola distinguishes itself from other religious communities by a fourth perpetual vow. In addition to the traditional vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, the Paulines add a fourth—the Lenten way of life. This vow commits them to the dietary restrictions customary during Lent in the 15th century—that is, abstaining from meat and meat products, as well as anything derived from warm-blooded animals. This article explains what each vow means, why the fourth vow is so unique, and how the Spiritual Center in Vranov connects the Order’s ideal with the lives of modern people.
Poverty—Life Without Accumulation
The first perpetual vow—poverty—is not merely symbolic but a genuine commitment. The brothers renounce material possessions and worldly ambitions so that they may live truly simply and focus on spiritual values. Poverty teaches freedom, courage, and the ability to give without expecting anything in return. This ideal is also reflected in the Spiritual Center, where less is sometimes more, and letting go of the accumulation of possessions in life is precisely the path to inner peace. All of us who visit the Spiritual Center can experience this simplicity and take new inspiration back into our daily lives.Purity—The Path to Spiritual Openness
The second vow, chastity, is not only about the physical aspect of life, but above all about spiritual openness. The brothers live in love and respect for all people, keeping their minds and hearts pure and nonviolent. Purity allows them to see God’s presence in everything around them and, above all, to be fully present in the community. The spiritual center in Vranov reflects this ideal in its atmosphere. An atmosphere that is calm, open, and welcoming. Every visitor—whether a pilgrim, a retreat participant, or a layperson seeking tranquility—can experience moments of spiritual purification and inner peace here.Obedience – Life in Community
The third vow, obedience, is the foundation of the brothers’ communal life. It means listening to God, to the superior, and to the voice of one’s own conscience. And at the same time, it means being open to the needs of the community. Obedience is not about restricting freedom, but about using it properly—it teaches sensitivity, patience, and a willingness to cooperate. At the Spiritual Center, this value is reflected in the organization of events, the care for guests, and respect for the needs of all who visit the center. Every activity here is an opportunity to learn to listen and to be part of the community, even if you are a layperson or a guest for only a short time.The Fourth Vow – A Lenten Way of Life
The most distinctive feature of the Paulines is the fourth vow—a Lenten way of life. This vow commits the brothers to dietary restraint—they do not consume meat, milk, eggs, or cheese—as a symbolic form of penance for all who live far from God. For the Paulans, fasting is a path to deeper compassion and spiritual sensitivity; it teaches them inner discipline and reminds them of the connection between life and God’s will. In 1972, this fast was relaxed to exclude only meat products, so milk, eggs, and products made from them have become part of the brothers’ diet today. At the Spiritual Center, where we also prepare meals for laypeople, this ideal is adapted—everyone can experience the spirituality of the environment without the need for strict fasting, yet still feel that simplicity and moderation bring peace and space for contemplation.Spiritual Center – Bridging Ideals and Modern Life
The Spiritual Center in Vranov is a place where all four vows of the Paulines become a tangible experience. It is not just about the prayer and work of the religious—the center offers a space for gathering, education, rest, and the search for inner peace. Here, laypeople and pilgrims alike can listen and learn to apply the values of simplicity, openness, and solidarity to their own lives. The kitchen, accommodations, garden, and halls demonstrate that spiritual life can go hand in hand with comfort and human care. Whether it’s a short visit, a weekend retreat, or a longer stay, the Spiritual Center provides an experience that combines traditional monastic ideals with the needs of the modern age.Read also
🌙 Night of Churches: This year, you'll experience even more with us!
12.05.2026
🗓️ May 29, 2026
⌚️ 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍Vranov 7, 664 32
The Vranov Church and mausoleum are an integral part of the Night of Churches, but this year we have something new in store for you. For the first time, our Spiritual Center will also open its doors on this evening. ✨
We want to show you Vranov not only as a historical monument, but as a vibrant meeting place. Come take a look around our facilities, relax in the garden, or simply share this special evening with us. 🕯️
Our doors are wide open to locals and visitors from far and wide alike. ⛪🚶🏽
Important Information for Our Guests: Changes to the Local Lodging Tax
30.03.2026
Dear Guests of the Spiritual Center,
We would like to inform you of a change that will affect your future stays with us in Vranov.
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