The process of discernment through which an individual may discover a vocation to the Secular Franciscan life involves four phases:

• ORIENTATION is the first phase of formation in the Secular Franciscan Order. You will become acquainted with Secular Franciscans as they get to know you also. The "discovery" period begins in orientation and extends into inquiry. These phases of formation help discern your vocation through reflection, dialogue, and prayer. There are necessary requirements as you begin your journey.

• INQUIRY is the phase during which the individual discovers and shares the story of how God has been present in their life and hears the introduction to the Franciscan Story as well as the story of the Catholic Church in the modern world.

• CANDIDACY is the phase during which a person who has sensed a possible call to the Order learns about the life of Francis, the history, structure, and purpose of the Order. The candidate examines the Rule of Life and becomes a part of fraternity life and ministry. The candidate opens themselves more formally to Gospel conversion in the spirit of Saint Francis. This period leads to a candidate's decision to make a permanent profession as a Secular Franciscan where they begin to observe the rule without making a binding commitment.

• PROFESSION is a lifetime commitment celebrating a promise to live according to the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order, "observing the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ" by following the example of St. Francis of Assisi, who made Christ the inspiration and the center of his life with God and people.

You are invited to come and see. We would love to meet you. We invite you to meet us and discern whether you are called by the Spirit of God to become an expression of the Gospel in the manner of St. Francis of Assisi. For more information, please contact any of the council members listed below.