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Associates Network

Welcome to the Franciscan Associates Network

One Franciscan Spirit, Many Callings, Shared Purpose

Who are Associates?

While we go by many names—associates, companions, affiliates, cojourners—we carry the Franciscan charism, and our congregations’ unique charisms, into the world. Together, we expand Franciscan influence in our families, parishes, workplaces, and communities, carrying forward the transformative message of peace, justice, and care for creation.

Why an Associates Network?

The Franciscan Associates Network is made up of Associate Leaders and Associate Communities of Third Order Regular Congregations. Led by a group of Core Leaders, this evolving network seeks to:

  1. Provide opportunities for Associate Leaders to meet and discuss important issues related to their ministry.
  2. Provide opportunities for associate members to meet and support one another in formation, mission, and spiritual growth.
  3. Encourage associate members to participate in the mission of the Franciscan Federation by serving on commissions and attending programs.

Our Purpose

The Franciscan Federation Associates Network seeks to provide a platform for communication and exchange of ideas among Franciscan Associate members. We desire to connect Associate communities across congregations, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and partnership.

We strive to carry the Franciscan charism into the future with hope and unity.

Gatherings

Click below to explore upcoming gatherings for Associate Leaders and Associate Members.

Upcoming Gatherings

The Core Leaders of the Associate’s Network invite directors and co-directors of associate communities to join our quarterly Zoom “Drop-in” meetings in 2026. These sessions will be held on:

  • April 30
  • August 6
  • November 5

Each meeting will last for approximately one hour and will begin at 9am Central / 10am Eastern.

These gatherings are designed as a space for directors and co-directors to connect with one another, share ideas and resources, and discuss current challenges in associate ministry.

If you are a director and would like the Zoom link, please email associates@franfed.org.

Hosting a gathering you’d like to open to other associates?
📩 Contact us at associates@franfed.org

Core Leaders

Colleen Collins, OFS
Director of Companions in Mission, Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Linda Dees
Co-Director of Associates, Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, New York

Nancy Knipper
Director of Associates, Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, Iowa

Darcy Mason
Director of Associates, Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, Illinois

Patricia Tomich
Lay Director, Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart, Frankfort, Illinois

Join Us

Together, we can build a strong foundation that will carry us into an uncertain but hopeful future, united in our commitment to living the Franciscan way as lay people called to transform the world through love, peace, and justice.

Join the Network