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Become a member of the Franciscan Federation
The Franciscan Federation strives to provide members with valuable resources and networking opportunities to promote the Franciscan charism among all who identify as Franciscan. We welcome all who live into the fullness of the Franciscan tradition and practice the spiritual values associated with Francis, Clare, and the early practitioners—both vowed and lay.
The Franciscan Federation intentionally creates space for a community of diverse Franciscans, inclusive of all backgrounds and vocations, to support one another as we live out our particular and collective calls to the Franciscan life. Multiple types of membership options are available, read below for more details on each type.
Membership types
Our new community membership structure will take effect on January 1, 2026. The information below is provided in advance to help you prepare for the upcoming changes. Click here to watch a video explaining the new membership structure.
Community Memberships continue to be the backbone of the Franciscan Federation. Community membership is open to religious institutes of vowed women and men (e.g., congregations, provinces, or governance units). When a community joins the Federation, every vowed member within that unit receives full membership benefits.
There are three types of community memberships: Founding Third Order, Franciscan Orders, and Lay Communities. To find out more about joining as a community, contact franfedoffice@franfed.org.
Have questions? Visit our FAQ page.
Founding Third Order
This designation includes vowed religious, associates, and employees of Third Order Regular communities
Franciscan Orders
This designation includes First order, Poor Clare, Secular, and Ecumenical Franciscan orders
Lay Communities
This designation is for intentional lay communities and associate groups not included in founding TOR community
Individual membership is designed for individuals with a Franciscan Spirit who desire to keep informed of trends, information, and resources supporting the Franciscan tradition in the 21st century. It also provides an opportunity to connect with and build community with other members of the Franciscan family. Individual Members must have an email address to receive communications.
The Franciscan Partners Membership is available to organizations and groups that work to support and share Franciscan values or have a desire to support the growth of the Franciscan charism and the strength of the Franciscan Federation. There are three types of Franciscan Partners Membership; Franciscan Organizations, Nonprofit Organizations, and For-Profit Organizations.
