Some Franciscans are priests and some are brothers, but the important question starting out is whether or not one is called to be a Franciscan Friar.

The word "Friar" comes from the Latin, frater, and means "brother." All Franciscans are brothers to one another, whether they may serve in the priesthood or brotherhood. Deciding whether one is called to Franciscan life is a process that cannot be rushed. Seldom does one know if his call is for certain right away. It takes discernment to find this out. Discernment is a purposeful and strategic process that's rooted in prayer, input from others, and personal experience. It takes time to progress through the various stages of this discernment to know if one is truly called to be a Franciscan.

The first stage is simply to learn more about Franciscan life. This might include surfing the Net and talking to others about his curiosity to serve in such a way. Then one might visit Franciscan houses (commonly called friaries), contact a vocation director, or even attend a vocation weekend. These events allow one to discern with other people who are also considering their call in life. Prayer is a crucial element throughout the entire process, whether personal prayer, time spent before the Blessed Sacrament, or participating in Mass -- even daily Eucharist. Getting a Spiritual Director -- someone with whom you can discuss and share this experience -- is important at this point as well.

The second stage is to begin formal discernment with a vocation director. The vocation director will help guide him, invite him to events, provide materials to aid his journey, and focus his discernment in a more definitive way. When both the person and the vocation director agree this is the right call for this person, the application process begins. This involves paperwork, testing, interviews, reference checks and, ultimately, presenting the applicant to the Admissions Board. Once a person is accepted, at the appointed time he will begin Franciscan Formation. Some might equate "formation" with "seminary," even though there are some distinct differences between the two. When one enters formation, discernment doesn't end but only becomes more focused. Formation provided a hands-on experience to see if Franciscan life is really for him.