Jane DeRose-Bamman, OFS
National Minister

Jane DeRose-Bamman
National Minister

How large is your family?  The size of my family has varied over the years.  Biologically speaking, I was raised in a large family (seven children). Lots of cousins on both sides.  In contrast, as an adult, my immediate family has only two.

My experience of Franciscan fraternity families has varied also.  I professed while a member of a large fraternity (probably 80-100 people).  I am now a member of a small fraternity with three professed and seven in formation.

The size of the family or fraternity does not matter. What matters is the connection, the relationships.

Article 1 of the OFS Rule states we are a part of a family. This family has an important role in the life and mission of the Church. 

Each member has unique gifts and skills. We aren’t clones of each other. St. Francis stressed to his brothers that they were not to copy him, but rather seek what was theirs to do in following the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Article 98 of the OFS General Constitutions expounds on Article 1 of the OFS Rule.

We are called to live in life-giving reciprocal communion with all members of the Franciscan Family. Our family is LARGE – First, Second and Third Orders, Secular Institutes, other lay ecclesial groups who follow Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis. The Franciscan Family is called to work together to spread the Gospel, remove the causes of marginalization, and serve the cause of peace.

Let’s not get overwhelmed, rather let’s embrace the call to connect with our family and further these initiatives as the Holy Spirit is calling us to do. I look forward to building relationships and to hearing how others are doing the same.

Speaking of relationships, since we are family, I look forward to an invitation to come over for dinner soon.