- - - -
VocationsHomeFranciscans
FranciscansNewsEducationSpiritualityVocationsGeneralJustice, Peace and Integrity of CreationFranciscans
Franciscan Cords
 
Vocations | Franciscan Vocation | Reflections | Vocations FAQ | Links
 

A Franciscan Vocation?

So, you have a reasonable idea that you have a vocation to religious life, but is it a Franciscan vocation?  How do you know?

A vocation to the Franciscans has a number of components to it.  When you think about the notion of being a friar, is it the idea of living with like-minded men in an enriching life of work and prayer together that excites you?  If so, that is a promising sign; community is an important and quintessential element of Franciscan life.

Francis did not lay down any particular sort of work or job for the friars, the “life of the Friars Minor is this: to live the Holy Gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ,” he wrote.   An attraction to living out that Gospel in its fullness is another good indicator of a Franciscan vocation. 

There are many virtues associated with Francis: simplicity, courtesy, humility, a sense of joy and a delight in creation.  These are more than just ideals about which you can say, “Oh yes, I like those!”  They are values that you should see lived out in your life right now.

Do you show concern for those neglected and despised by society and identify with them?  Do you care for creation and build bonds of brotherhood and community amongst people?  Do people see you as a herald of joy and a man of peace?  Above all, do you want to follow in the very footprints of Jesus and make his message come alive again in your life and work?  These are signs of a healthy Franciscan vocation.


What now?

It can be really helpful to open yourself to another person and talk about these things.  Perhaps you can seek the advice of people especially trained in discernment like a spiritual director or a vocation director.  You might want to talk to your parish priest or a Religious - or you can contact us.  Don’t worry that you might get cornered into having to join; a bad decision is as unhelpful for us as it is for you!  We want you to feel content and relaxed in any decision you make.

Above all things, pray.  This is the most important thing you can do.  A vocation is more than a choice of career; it is a loving response to a generous God.  By opening yourself to God in prayer, you will allow the Holy Spirit to touch your heart and speak to you.  This is the path that Francis pursued in reaching his own decision.  There is no substitute for prayer.

You may wish to use that prayer that Francis used as he prayed before the Crucifix of San Damiano:

Most High, glorious God,
Enlighten the darkness of my heart.
Give me true faith, certain hope, perfect love,
sense and knowledge, Lord,
That I may carry out your holy and true command.

 Amen.

 

  ContactSitemapFranciscans TopHome  
  Franciscans