Who or What are Secular Franciscans?
The Order of Secular Franciscans is a Way of Life, approved by the Church, for men and women, married or single, who are called to take an active part in the mission of Christ to bring “the good news of salvation” to the world. Secular Franciscans commit themselves to a life in Christ calling for a positive effort to promote Gospel attitudes among their contemporaries. They are united with each other in Communities, through which they develop a sense of direction according to the Gospel spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi. FRANCIS, the saint known and loved the world over, was born at Assisi, central Italy, in the year 1181, the son of a wealthy merchant. He died there in 1226, after a life in Christ that earned him the title “Poverello” (little poor man). As a youth, like many young people today, Francis “discovered” Jesus. He found Him in the Gospel, poor and suffering. Francis made up his mind to identify himself with his crucified Lord. In the words of Pope Pius XI, “So lifelike and
