Forming The Life Of A Franciscan

This podcast outlines the vocation of being a Franciscan as part of the religious order founded by Francis of Assisi over 800 years ago.

The Third Order comprises individuals in ordinary walks of life who live in a community "in dispersion" and live under rule and vows, outside a convent, without habits or religious garb.

The focus of the Franciscan vocation is to always turn towards God, and to strive for peace and unity in the family of God through living the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the manner of St. Francis.

The formation process involves discovering one's personal calling and learning to live the Rule as an individual in a dispersed community, through practices such as personal prayer, study, meditation, spiritual direction, self-examination, and self-denial.

The Franciscan vocation also involves embracing material creation and finding the presence of God in all things.