Brown Robe benefit raises $165,000 for Capuchins

n the evening of Oct.10, 9NEWS anchor Adele Arakawa and some 425 guests gathered at the Grand Hyatt Denver for the Brown Robe Benefit to celebrate the lives and ministries of the Capuchin Franciscan friars. 

Denver Broncos’ owner Pat Bowlen and wife, Annabel, served as the event’s honorary chairpersons for the 14th year.  Arakawa was mistress of ceremonies for the 12th year.  Auctioneer Gary Corbett enlivened the crowd.

The evening netted approximately $165,000, organizers said.  A portion of that will be used to assist the Capuchin friars in their daily lives and ministries.   An anonymous challenge gift of $50,000 bolstered attendees to raise more than $50,000 earmarked for the training and education of future Capuchin priests and brothers.

“We are incredibly pleased with the results of the Brown Robe,” said Meghan Curtis, director of special events for the Capuchin Province of Mid-America. “Our guests really showed their commitment to the friars by helping us raise significant dollars in these tough economic times.”