The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal
Word (MFVA, Latin for Missionarii Franciscani
Verbi Aeterni) is a Public Clerical Association
of the Faithful, located in the Roman Catholic
Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama.
They were founded in 1987 by Mother Angelica,
who also founded the Eternal Word Television
Network (EWTN) and the Shrine of the Most
Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama.
The primary residence of the Friars is in
Irondale, Alabama, and is next door to EWTN.
They also have residences in Emmitsburg, Maryland,
where their seminarians attend the seminary
at Mount Saint Mary's University, and in Hanceville,
near the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament.
The Friars' apostolate is to communicate the
Catholic faith by word and example.
It involves using the media: television, radio
and the Internet, as well as publishing and
conducting retreats.
Currently, they focus their attention on the
television and radio ministry, in addition
to providing for the spiritual needs of the
Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, the EWTN
employees, and the visitors who come to EWTN
and the Shrine.
Many of the Friars take classes during the
school year, either at Mount Saint Mary's
University or in their own House of Studies
adjacent to the Friary in Birmingham.
In contrast to Franciscan communities that
focus on the corporal works of mercy, the
Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word
devote themselves to the spiritual works of
mercy.
Therefore, they study to gain a deep knowledge
of the Catholic faith and practice communicating
it effectively.
Adapting to the needs of the time, they have
developed into an active religious institute,
but still maintain elements of the contemplative
life.
In addition to praying the Liturgy of the
Hours, the Friars devote an hour each day
to Eucharistic Adoration and pray the daily
Rosary.
The community is composed of priests and seminarians,
as well as consecrated brothers.
== External links ==
Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word
- Website
Eternal Word Television Network
