From the beginning Francis attracted followers to his way of life and the desire to bring the Gospel to life.
The Franciscan Family
Men and women have felt the calling to follow St. Francis from the earliest days. Some, because of their station in life, are able to follow more closely and thus chose to become members of the first or second order where they take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. Others, perhaps because they are married and even diocesan clergy can become members of the Secular Franciscan Order; this is who we are. We don’t take vows but make a permanent profession to the order. After a period of formation (minimum 2 years) the candidate is invited to make a permanent, lifelong profession to the order.
“From the beginning, the Secular Franciscan Order has had its own proper place in the Franciscan Family. It is formed by the organic union of all the Catholic fraternities whose members, moved by the Holy Spirit, commit themselves through profession to live the Gospel in the manner of St. Francis, in their secular state, following Rule approved by the Church.”
Famous Secular Franciscans
- St. Elizabeth of Hungary
- St. Ferdinand III of Castile
- St. Bridget of Sweden
- St. Joan of Arc
- St. Thomas More
- St. John Vianney
- St. John Bosco
- Giotto di Bondone
- Michelangelo Buonarroti
- Parents of St. Therese of Lisieux
- Parents of St. Maximilian Kolbe
- Mother of St. Maria Goretti.
- St. Louis IX (King of France)