Who are the Secular Franciscans?

The Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) is a branch of the worldwide Franciscan Family.  We are single and married, men and women.  We work, worship and play in the community where we live.

The OFS is a secular movement, established by St. Francis of Assisi more than 800 years ago.  Our purpose is to bring the gospel to 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 do likewise.

In today's world we are plagued by 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 - if God is calling you.

What do Secular Franciscans Do?

Secular Franciscans follow the OFS rule that requires us to spend time in community with our Franciscan brothers and sisters.

We gather at least monthly.  We support each other through the ups and downs of daily life.  We pray together.  We take opportunities to learn about our Church, our community and our world.

Our rule mandates us to be involved in apostolic ministries and with youth.  When we are called to action, we embrace the call joyfully.  Some of us are religious education teachers, some have a special ministry to animals, some have made a commitment to Perpetual Adoration.  Some work with the poor and homeless.

As a fraternity, we take action on issues that affect the lives of others.  We do letter-writing campaigns in response to social justice issues; we support the efforts of our brothers and sisters who are serving the poor and lepers halfway around the world.

Is the OFS for you?

If you have a Franciscan vocation, 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.  Perhaps, God is calling you!

Getting to know the OFS better may be a way to determine if you have a vocation.

For more information on the OFS, the initial formation process, and our Rule of Life, we invite you to visit the National website, https://secularfranciscansusa.org or our Region website, http://www.bssfsfo.org

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Secular Franciscan Fraternity meets on the second Saturday of every month.  If you would like to visit one of our gatherings or would like more information, please contact anyone on our fraternity council: