Formation

    The Secular Franciscan Order is a group of fraternities (small communities) made up of Catholic lay people, married and single, who have made a permanent lifetime commitment to observe the Rule of Life of St. Francis of Assisi. Inspired by  St. Francis, we strive to convert our daily lives by going from Gospel-to-Life and from Life-to-Gospel. Lay people who have heard the call to follow the Franciscan way of life embark upon a 2+ year process of formation.

   This structured program is both academic and spiritual. Throughout, the candidates are continually challenged to deepen their prayer life (conversation with God) and response to the love of God and God's will in their life. During this time of discernment the candidates meet for Formation Classes and also meet with the Fraternity to immerse themselves in life in fraternity (Community).

    As Secular Franciscans we strive to follow in the footsteps of Christ as St. Francis did and also to become "mirrors" of  Christ as St. Clare of Assisi instructed us. At profession into the Fraternity we commit ourselves to lifelong penance/conversion. We embrace Gospel poverty in that we release our attachment to the importance of material possessions in our lives. Each day of our lives we strive to infuse Gospel values into our family, community and workplace.

    If you feel called to the lifestyle of the Secular Franciscan please contact: Vocation, SFO