The OFS is organized into small groups of spiritual families called fraternities with both men and women members. The fraternities are safe havens in a world that often does not support Christian ideals. Since being a Secular Franciscan is a lifetime commitment, you will have lasting relationships with other fraternity members. Unlike a prayer group that may dissolve in a couple of years, or a Scripture study group whose members come and go, the Secular Franciscan fraternities are canonically established ecclesial communities in the Church whose members are united for life. You'll have family all over the world. When you move or travel to a new place, the local fraternity will welcome you as one of their own. You'll feel at home for they have the same Franciscan spirit you resonate so well.
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Personal Invitation:
If this sounds attractive to you, please contact us (click on the "Contact Us" tab). In the parable of the Wedding Feast, the King invited many to the wedding but few came and not all who came met the requirements. Thus the conclusion, "Many are invited, but few are chosen (or called)." The local Director of Formation together with the fraternity will help you discern whether you have a calling to the Secular Franciscan life. It is possible that you're called to something else; however, unless you answer the invitation, you'll never find out. So, why don't we get together over a cup of coffee or tea and discuss what attracts you to the Franciscans? |