The Franciscan Journey
Formation
A Lifelong Conversion
The Path to Profession
Formation in the Secular Franciscan Order is not a course to complete — it is a way of life to embrace. It unfolds gradually, over years, through prayer, study, fraternal sharing, and the ordinary circumstances of daily life.
The journey moves through four stages, each with its own graces and invitations. There is no rush. The Spirit moves at its own pace, and the fraternity walks with you every step of the way.
The Four Stages
Steps Along the Way
01
Open-ended
Inquiry
The journey begins with curiosity. During the inquiry period, a person attends fraternity gatherings, asks questions, and begins to sense whether Franciscan life resonates with their heart. There is no commitment at this stage — only an open door.
02
Minimum 6 months
Candidacy
A candidate formally enters the fraternity's formation program. Together with a formation director, they study the life of Francis and Clare, explore the Franciscan charism, and begin to integrate the values of prayer, simplicity, and service into daily life.
03
Minimum 1 year
Novitiate
The novitiate is a deeper period of discernment and formation. Novices study the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order, participate fully in fraternity life, and prayerfully consider whether they are called to make a permanent profession.
04
Lifelong
Profession
Profession is the solemn, permanent commitment to live the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order for the rest of one's life. It is celebrated within the fraternity and marks full membership in the Order. It is not an ending — it is a beginning.
Pray With Us
Franciscan Prayers
Prayer of Saint Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
The Canticle of the Creatures
Most High, all-powerful, good Lord, Yours are the praises, the glory, the honor, and all blessing. To You alone, Most High, do they belong, and no man is worthy to mention Your name. Praised be You, my Lord, with all Your creatures, especially Sir Brother Sun, who is the day and through whom You give us light. And he is beautiful and radiant with great splendor; and bears a likeness of You, Most High One. Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars, in heaven You formed them clear and precious and beautiful.
— Saint Francis of Assisi
Study & Reflection
Formation Resources
Scripture & Prayer
The Liturgy of the Hours
The Church's official daily prayer — Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer are especially recommended for Secular Franciscans.
Lectio Divina
A traditional method of prayerful Scripture reading: Read, Meditate, Pray, Contemplate. A cornerstone of Franciscan formation.
The Rosary
A Marian devotion beloved by Francis himself. Prayed individually or communally as a fraternity.
Franciscan Texts
The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order (1978)
The foundational document governing our way of life, approved by Pope Paul VI. Every member studies and lives by this Rule.
The Writings of Saint Francis
Letters, admonitions, prayers, and the Canticle of the Creatures — the words of Francis himself, direct and disarming.
The Little Flowers of Saint Francis (Fioretti)
A beloved collection of stories about Francis and his early companions, full of joy, simplicity, and wonder.
Recommended Reading
Chesterton's "Saint Francis of Assisi"
A luminous biography by G.K. Chesterton — one of the finest introductions to the life and spirit of Francis.
"Francis of Assisi" by Ilia Delio, OFM
A scholarly yet accessible exploration of Franciscan spirituality for the modern world.
The Franciscan Journey (OFS-USA)
The official formation manual used by fraternities across the United States, guiding candidates through each stage.
Ready to Begin the Journey?
If you feel drawn to Franciscan life, the first step is simply to come and see. Reach out to us — we will welcome you with open arms and no expectations.