Welcome to the Clare-Francis Fraternity!

Admission into the Secular Franciscan Order requires a period of formation which is gradual. Don't be in a hurry! Through prayer, practice and study, each person can make an honest, reasoned judgement as to whether he/she wants to coniinue to serve God as a committed member of the Secular Franciscan Order. Also, during this time, the fraternity council makes a prayful, reasoned judgement as to whether or not a candidate is fitted for this way of life.

FORMATION INCLUDES FOUR STAGES OF GROWTH:

1. Initial/Observer
   • Come to monthly fraternity meetings to meet members, pray with them and share in the joy and witness of their Franciscan lives.
   • The observer may apply for reception into the process of entering the Order.

2. Inquiry/Postulant
   • Attend formation sessions which include an overview of the lives of Sts. Francis and Clare, an attitude of Franciscan Living, Pray in Daily Life, and the Rule of St. Francis.
   • The inquirer may petition for candidacy. The minister, with the fraternity council, dicides whether or not to allow the addmission.

3. Candidacy
   • Attend fraternity meetings and study/formation sessions which include: the Life of Francis and clare, Prayer and Scripture, the Rule and Constitutions, the Spirit of Franciscan Living.
   • Candidates may submit to the minister a request to make a commitment/profession. Secret ballot of te Council members determines the answer to the request.

4. Professed Member
   • The professed member is actively invlved in the life of the fraternity through prayer, study, activities, sharing and ongoing formation.
   • Professed members may become more active by accepting an elected position on fraternity, regonial, provincial or international levels.

If you are interested in becoming a Franciscan or are interested in learning more about us, you can contact us at [email protected]