The Three Founders of the Clerics Regular Minor
The Clerics Regular Minor, also known as the Adorno Fathers, are a Catholic religious order founded in 1588 in Naples. The order owes its origins to three extraordinary figures: Giovanni Agostino Adorno, Fabrizio Caracciolo, and Francesco Caracciolo. These three holy men, driven by a deep desire for spiritual and pastoral renewal, established a community distinguished by its commitment to charity, preaching, and the reform of religious life.
Giovanni Agostino Adorno
Giovanni Agostino Adorno was born in 1551 in Genoa. From a young age, he demonstrated a great love for prayer and serving others. After a period of formation with the Jesuits and a brief stay in Rome, he felt called to a life of greater dedication to God. "Charity is the cornerstone of our journey towards holiness," Adorno would say, emphasizing the importance of community life and assisting those most in need.
Fabrizio Caracciolo
Fabrizio Caracciolo, a member of the noble Caracciolo family of Naples, was born in 1557. He renounced the privileges of his social status to devote himself entirely to God. After meeting Giovanni Agostino Adorno, he decided to join his project to found a new religious order. Caracciolo was known for his humility and deep spirituality. "Humility is the surest way to reach the heart of God," he would often affirm.
Francesco Caracciolo
Francesco Caracciolo, Fabrizio's cousin, was born in 1563 in Villa Santa Maria. After being miraculously healed from a severe illness, he decided to dedicate his life to the service of God. He became a priest and soon joined Giovanni Agostino Adorno and Fabrizio Caracciolo in founding the Clerics Regular Minor. Francesco was particularly devoted to the Eucharist and promoted the practice of perpetual adoration. "The Eucharist is the beating heart of Christian life," he proclaimed with fervor.
The Mission of the Order
The Clerics Regular Minor are characterized by their simple and austere life, their dedication to preaching, and their commitment to charity. The order quickly spread to various regions of Italy and abroad, attracting many followers through the exemplary holiness of its founders. Their mission was clear: "To bring the light of the Gospel to the most distant and alleviate the sufferings of the poor and marginalized."
Spiritual Legacy
The legacy of the three founders continues to live on in the order they established. Their exemplary lives and teachings remain a beacon of light for all who seek to live a fully Christian life. The Adorno Fathers, following in the footsteps of their founders, continue to serve God and humanity, embodying the values of humility, charity, and dedication that Giovanni Agostino Adorno, Fabrizio Caracciolo, and Francesco Caracciolo so ardently pursued.