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The of Milwaukee since 1869

The Capuchin presence in Milwaukee dates to 1869 with the establishment of St. Francis of Assisi Monastery and Church. From there, the Capuchin friars sought to accompany and serve those on the margins.

Capuchin Community Services was officially established in 1968 with the opening of the House of Peace as an outreach center for St. Francis of Assisi Church.

St. Ben’s Community Meal soon followed, serving its first meal in 1970 at St. Benedict the Moor Parish.

The House of Peace

The House of Peace began in 1968 as an outreach mission of nearby St. Francis of Assisi Church in response to civil unrest that shook Milwaukee in the late 1960s.

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Historical photo of the House of Peace at 17th and Walnut Streets in Milwaukee, circa 1970s.
Historical black and white photograph of meal service at St. Ben's Community Meal circa 1970s.

St. Ben’s Community Meal

What began as a regular potluck dinner at Milwaukee’s Casa Maria House found its permanent home at St. Benedict the Moor Church in 1970.

Read the full history of St. Ben’s Community Meal