Becoming a Secular Franciscan means many things, but it begins with the initial realization that you will be embarking on a new way of life; that of following Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi. It will foster your continued conversion and form you to a greater likeness of Christ as an instrument of God’s peace. It is a commitment to know St. Francis and his life, and a commitment to explore how you can respond with an open heart and greater trust in God to whatever He is calling you to do.
Your purpose as a Secular Franciscan, or a friend of Francis, is to fulfill the purpose God gave you: to respond to His love with total love of your own, and to consecrate yourself completely to the good God.
“Formation” is more than instruction. You will ask God to bring a new “form” or style into your life, through the influence and inspiration of St. Francis. God’s response will be your transformation into the individual you are created to be. It takes a lifetime, but it is more than worth the effort.
Conditions for admission to the Secular Franciscan Order are: “…to profess the Catholic faith, to live in communion with the Church, to be of good moral standing, and to show clear signs of a vocation.” (General Constitutions, Article 39, 2). A recommendation from your Parish Pastor is essential.
The first stage in the journey to Profession is Orientation, which is a time of initial exploration. This is followed by a period of Inquiry (6 months) into the meaning of Franciscan fraternity life. Interested individuals are then invited to become Candidates (12 months), a time of discernment as to whether God is calling them to live the Franciscan way of life. Temporary Profession follows Candidacy, with the decision for Permanent Profession exercised at one-year intervals over the next three years.
For those who are professed or aspiring for profession (Inquirers and Candidates), attendance at fraternity gatherings is essential. Coming together as a family is a source of living instruction and inspiration. St. Mary’s Fraternity gatherings are held monthly throughout the year, with no gatherings in July and August.