- What is a Secular Franciscan?
Do Secular Franciscans take vows?
How do I become a Secular Francisan?
How Many Secular Franciscans are there?
What is the Rule?
Can I Come and See?
Stage
Begins with:
Stage duration
Title
Commitment
1. Expression of interest
Welcome
variable
Visitor
none
2. Initiation
Period of Enquiry
Introduction
6 months
Enquirer
Attend monthly meeting if possible
3. Formation
Admission
Liturgy
At least one year
Candidate
Attend Fraternity meetings if possible and follow the Rule
4. Professed
Membership
Profession
Mass
Life-long
Professed Member
It is generally recognised that St Francis followed the Gospel Life as closely as he could. Secular Franciscans try to follow the Gospel Life in the footsteps of St Francis, with the help of local Fraternities and a life-long commitment to the Secular Franciscan Rule. We find the company of other like-minded Christians helpful on the Way, while we look to St Francis to see how it can be done. The SFO is open to the laity and to diocesan clergy. Back to topics
Secular Franciscans are a True Religious Order of the RC Church and like many Religious Orders we do not take vows. Rather we solemnly promise to live all the days of our life the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Secular Franciscan Order by observing the rule of life. Back to topics
There are more than 1300 Secular franciscans in the UK and approximately half a million Secular Franciscans worldwide and growing! Back to topics
The Secular Francisan Rule was originally written by St Francis. The modern version was approved by the Pope and is the rule by which we live out our Franciscan life. For more details see the CIOFS on the homepage Back to topics
Come and See