Secular Franciscans, should seek to encounter the living person of Christ in their brothers and sisters, in Sacred Scripture, in the Church, and in liturgical activity. The faith of Saint 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.
From The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order
Become a Member
According to Canon Law, those who are practicing Catholics 21 years of age or older may be professed into the Secular Franciscan Order. There is an approximately two year period of discernment and formation before formal profession, which is a solemn promise of a permanent commitment to live the Gospel life within the Secular Franciscan Order, supported by the brothers and sisters of the fraternity.
Everyone who enters the Order does so as a member of a local fraternity; there are no at-large members. The local fraternities are grouped into regions under a Regional Council, which are themselves part of a National Council. The National Councils are part of the International Council which meets in Rome.
Most importantly we are all part of the Franciscan family which includes Seculars, First Order Regulars, Third Order Regulars, Poor Claires, Capuchins, and many others. We are many and we are one, united by our devotion to Our Lord Jesus Christ and his humble servant Francis!
“I have done what was mine to do.
May Christ teach you what is yours.”
St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis of the Streets 