The Secular Franciscan Order was established by St. Francis of Assisi more than 800 years ago. Our purpose is to bring the Gospel to life where we live and where we work. We look for ways to embrace the Gospel in our lives and try to help others to do likewise.

National Minister’s Message

Formation Visioning Workshop

The journey of transformative visioning has begun – a journey that will test our readiness to authentically live the Franciscan life. Our experience at the recent Formation Visioning Workshop awakened our souls. We must now allow God to work this great change in us.

“The Vision of God for the OFS” – an image inspired by the Holy Spirit, painted by Pat Serotkin OFS at the recent Formation Visioning Workshop

Through a dedicated page on our website we are making available to everyone the materials from this gathering. Those who were present need to enlighten others and share what was experienced.  The vision given to Francis and Clare can unfold once again in our time.

 Guide us, O Lord, by your Spirit’s transforming power, that we may come to be, as Francis was, formed into a more precise embodiment of the likeness of Christ. Amen.

Interested in joining the
Secular Franciscan Order?

Here are your next steps:

  1. Find a local fraternity using our interactive map (click here).
  2. Reach out to the contact person listed below the map for detailed information about when and where the local fraternity gathers.
  3. Visit the local fraternity to learn more about the Order and how to proceed on your Franciscan journey.

In the meantime, you can read more about membership in the Order by clicking here.

A selection from our Rule of Life:

Secular Franciscans, therefore, should seek to encounter the living and active person of Christ in their brothers and sisters, in Sacred Scripture, in the Church, and in liturgical activity. The faith of St. Francis, who often said, “I see nothing bodily of the Most High Son of God in this world except His most holy body and blood,” should be the inspiration and pattern of their Eucharistic life.

— Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order – Article 5

Key Documents

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