The Franciscan Order has over 2,000 young, energetic, joy-filled men who are ready to let go of everything and embrace the way of life proposed by Saint Francis of Assisi. Many come from poor, developing areas of our world where their Franciscan presence is needed. They need to be formed and educated to serve in difficult and dangerous locations around the world—a process that can take up to 10 years.

Without major outside assistance to cover basic costs for the spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation of these young men, many of them may be turned away.

Do you know how much it would mean to financially support a seminarian?

It costs $4,000 a year to educate a Franciscan seminarian abroad. This amount is significant, yet small in comparison to the United States, where it can cost up to $50,000! Many men are waiting to become seminarians, but lack the resources to do so.

Would you consider helping a grateful servant of God, who will give his entire life to serving the poor?

Truly, any donation is a blessing, and helps to:

• Cover the costs of housing, clothing, and feeding young friars studying to become priests or serve as lay brothers
• Provide for their education and formation

In honor of your generosity and steadfast support, your name will be added to the Legacy Book in our Franciscan Missions chapel, where friars and priests pray for those who are supporting Franciscan seminarians.

What is the formation process?

The initial formation process has several stages, and takes up to 10 years to complete.

First Stage: Postulancy

The first stage of formation is a two-year process where young candidates live with the friars and participate in their daily life. Classes are given in basic topics such as Franciscan history, liturgy, music, and the catechism of the Catholic Church.

Second Stage: Novitiate

The second stage of formation is one year dedicated to prayer and spiritual development. Novices receive a Franciscan habit and profess temporary vows for one year, an act known as temporary profession.

Third Stage: Post-Novitiate

In the third stage of formation, young friars complete the initial Franciscan formation along with additional education needed to prepare them for their ministry. Friars preparing for the priesthood begin their education in philosophy and theology. As they progress with their studies, each friar renews his temporary vows. Should it be necessary, the friar may continue with temporary vows up to nine years before making his solemn profession.

During the post-novitiate stage, friars complete one year of pastoral experience, often in a parish. They live the Franciscan community life and serve in a variety of roles in their daily ministry.