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Franciscans welcome new secular members
By Elise Miller, The Catholic Sun
October 18, 2007
The Franciscan Order, one of many spiritual families in the Church, unites the laity, religious and priests called to follow Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.
Seven candidates made their final profession to the order as secular Franciscans during an Oct. 6 Mass at St. Mary’s Basilica.
“I’ve met several third order secular Franciscans, and they had such a beautiful Franciscan spirit,” said Jeanne Walker, one of the candidates.
“As I got to know more of the first order Franciscan priests and the Poor Clare nuns, I was attracted to their joy and spirituality and their peace and how they try to live the Gospel of life,” she added.
Secular Franciscans are lay people who help make the spirituality of St. Francis alive in the world. They commit to improving their prayer lives through the Liturgy of the Hours, their studies, the sacraments and outreach to people in need.
At the Mass, celebrated by Franciscan Father Vincent Mesi, pastor of the basilica, candidates were presented with the Gospels, a crucifix and a candle that symbolized becoming a light of Christ in the world.
After profession of the Franciscan Rule and permanent commitment to the Gospel way of life, the newly professed members of the St. Thomas More regional fraternity will join the rest of the secular Franciscans in ongoing formation.
“Today we’re seeing our brothers and sisters in Jesus and St. Francis become a part of the secular Franciscan family,” said Paul Winter, who made his profession two years ago.
“As secular Franciscans, we’re able to go out to the places where the friars can’t,” he said. “We actually live our Gospel life and we bring the spirit of St. Francis to our community — whether it’s at work, with our families, or just in the world.”
For Mary Lynn O’Connor, the three years of formation that led her to this month’s profession were worth it.
“I was looking to deepen my relationship with Christ,” she said. “It’s a beautiful way of life.”
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