Brotherhood

Not all Franciscans are priests. Saint Francis was not an ordained priest. Like Francis, some share in a unique call to the brotherhood. Similar to the priesthood, it is a way of ministering the Gospel of Jesus Christ, though not through the sacraments and preaching. A Franciscan brother might serve in a high school as a teacher, counselor or campus minister. He might work in direct service to the poor in a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, clinic. He might be a nurse, immigration lawyer, scholar. He might be the administrator of a retreat house, or work at a parish as a Director of Religious Education, youth minister, catechist. His personal and communal prayer, as well as his experience of living with other brothers and priests, enriches his life and ministry.

In embracing the vocation of a brother, this Friar is a living reminder of the importance of brotherhood in the life of the Order, the life of the Church and the life of the world. The Franciscan brother preaches the Gospel by his actions and presence. He is rooted in his life by prayer and grounded by the fraternal life he shares with other Friars, all living the same vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience.