Is God calling you to the Secular Franciscan Order?
For eight centuries, ordinary people - single and married, of every walk of life - have followed Christ in the footsteps of Francis and Clare, without leaving home. Perhaps the path is opening before you, too.
The Tau - Francis's own sign of the cross
We are lay Catholics living the Gospel in the footsteps of Francis and Clare - serving those who have less, and carrying hope into our city.
Read our full profession +
The Secular Franciscan Order is a community of Catholic men and women who seek to follow Christ in the way of Saint Francis of Assisi, while living in their own homes and families. We are not monks or nuns; we keep our jobs, raise our children, and pray amid ordinary life. Called to go "from gospel to life and life to gospel," we strive to make the love of Christ visible - through prayer, fraternity, and service to the poor, the lonely, and all of creation.
Where & when we gather
- ◆Last Sunday of every month
12:30 - 3:30 pm - ◆St. Gabriel the Archangel Church
2250 E. Maule Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89118 - ◆All Catholics of any rite are warmly welcome. No need to call ahead - simply come.
A pilgrimage, walked one step at a time
No vows are asked at the door. Joining unfolds gently over years - time to pray, to know us, and to discern whether the Lord is truly calling you.
Come, observe, and ask anything. A relaxed welcome with no commitment.
Explore the life of Francis and the Gospel together, in fellowship.
Deeper formation as you prepare your heart for profession.
A lifelong promise to live the Gospel in the Franciscan way.
Questions, gently answered
Who are the Franciscans?+
We are the spiritual family of St. Francis of Assisi, who left wealth behind to follow the poor and humble Christ. Today his family includes friars, sisters, and lay men and women - Secular Franciscans - who live his Gospel way of life in the world.
What does "Secular Franciscan" mean?+
"Secular" simply means we live in the everyday world - in our homes, families, and workplaces - rather than in a monastery.
Do you live like monks and nuns?+
No. We are not monks or nuns and we take no monastic vows. We keep our jobs, marry, raise families, and pray within the rhythm of normal life.
Can anyone join the Secular Franciscan Order?+
Any practicing Catholic in good standing - single or married, age 18 or older - who feels drawn to the Franciscan way is welcome to begin discerning with us.
How long does it take to join?+
There is no rush. Formation moves through Orientation, Inquiry, and Candidacy over roughly three years before profession - time meant for genuine, unhurried discernment.
What if I'm just curious and not ready to commit?+
Then you are exactly who we hope to meet. Come to a gathering with no expectations. "Come and see" is how every Franciscan journey begins.
What is expected of me if I join?+
A life of daily prayer, regular participation in the Mass, faithful presence at our monthly fraternity gatherings, and a heart turned toward the poor and toward peace.
Do I have to wear a habit?+
No. Secular Franciscans wear ordinary clothes. Many wear a simple Tau cross as a quiet sign of their way of life.
Let's begin a conversation
Send a note and one of our members will write back warmly - no pressure, no obligation. We would love to hear from you.
Prefer a person? Ask for Brother Daniel, our formation director, and we'll connect you directly.