Order of Franciscan Seculars (OFS)
The Franciscan family, as one among many spiritual families raised up in the Holy Spirit of the Church, unites all members of the people of God— laity, religious, and priests—who recognize that they are called to follow Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi (OFS Rule, Chapter One, Article #1)
The Order of Franciscan Seculars (OFS) is an organic union of all Catholic fraternities scattered throughout the world and open to every group of the faithful. In these fraternities the brothers and sisters, led by the Spirit, strive for perfect charity in their own secular state. They pledge themselves to live the gospel in the manner of Saint Francis.
The rule and life of the Secular Franciscans is to observe the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ by following the example of St. Francis of Assisi who made Christ the inspiration and the center of his life with God and people.
Secular Franciscans devote themselves especially to careful reading of the gospel, going from gospel to life and life to gospel. They 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.
Information about the St. Francis of Assisi Forming Fraternity
Implemented by Fr. Ken Laverone, OFM, this new iteration of the Secular Fraternity at St. Francis Parish began being organized prior to the departure of the Friars in June 2016. A formation class established in the spring of 2016 saw nine members welcomed as Candidates, who went on to spend 18 months discerning a vocation as a Secular Franciscan.
2018
April 2018: the Fraternity offered its' third orientation class for Inquiry.
November 10, 2018: Four of candidates who were welcomed in the spring of 2016 will profess at a Mass presided by Rev. Ken Laverone, OFM. The first professed members in the St. Francis forming Fraternity are Debbie Clingingsmith, Melba Hinojosa, Dana Swears, and JD Warrick.
2017
As of late February 2017 this community was granted the status of Newly Forming Group.
March 26, 2017: the Fraternity offered its' second orientation and informational meeting for those interested in entering the next Formation Class session.
December 12, 2017: The six members of that formation class were welcomed as Candidates and began their 18+ month journey of discernment.
For more information about the forming Fraternity at St. Francis Parish, watch our bulletin and this page, or email jdwarrick@stfrancisparish.com.
For additional Information about the Order of Franciscan Seculars, see:
National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order
The Rule of the SFO
Is God Calling You to the SFO? |