"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible." - St Francis of Assisi
The Secular Franciscan Order (latin: Ordo Franciscanus Saecularis - ofs) is an official Order of the Catholic Church founded by Italian, St Francis of Assisi. He founded the 1st order for men - Friars Minor; the 2nd order for women - the Poor Clares and the lay order for men and women who live in the world - the Secular Franciscan Order (ofs).
The OFS is a secular movement, established by St Francis of Assisi more than 800 years ago. Our purpose is to bring the gospel of life where we live and where we work. We look for practical ways to embrace the gospel in our lives and try to help others to do likewise. In today’s world we are plagued by uncertainty, time schedules, projects and activities that leave us tense and stressed. The OFS becomes our place of refuge and renewal where our brothers and sisters in Francis support and inspire us. You, too, can become a life-time member of our family.
Come and see!
If you have a Franciscan vocation, then you probably have a desire to do something more. Perhaps you feel a need for support in growing spiritually. Or, deep down, you sense a need to serve God in a special way. Or, for years, you have felt an affinity with St Francis. He seems to pop up all around and you just don’t know why. Perhaps, God is calling you! Getting to know the OFS better may be a way to determine if you have a vocation. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know us before you make any commitment. The OFS requires three months of orientation and three months of inquiry. During that time, you’ll come to our monthly gatherings and have a few informal sessions. Then, if you feel the call to continue, you’ll have another 12 months of formal discussion, education and involvement as a candidate.
Contact our National Minister, Dominic Anderton on 09 818 1533 and he'll put you in touch with your LOCAL FRATERNITY, or get in touch via our CONTACT PAGE.
“Most high glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart, give me, Lord, a correct faith, a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge, so that I may carry out Your holy and true command.” - St Francis of Assisi