Peace and Goodness
A community of lay men and women seeking to follow Jesus Christ in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi, living the Gospel in the ordinary work, family, and friendship of everyday secular life.
Who We Are
Founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1221 for those who could not leave home for the cloister, the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) is a family of lay Catholics, and secular clergy, who profess to live the Gospel in the midst of the world.
Our Way of Life
We are not monks or friars. We are teachers, farmers, nurses, traders, parents and students who have made a permanent profession to follow Christ after the example of Francis, in our homes, our workplaces, and our parishes.
Our Commitment
Members are formed over several years and then profess the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order, committing to daily prayer, simplicity, fraternity, and works of mercy, becoming instruments of peace where they live.
The three knots of the cord
First knot
Holding lightly to possessions, sharing generously, and finding sufficiency in God rather than in things.
Second knot
Loving purely and faithfully according to one's state of life, whether single, married, or widowed.
Third knot
Listening for God's will in Scripture, the Church, and community, and following it in humble service.
Upcoming Events
Feast days, formation, retreats and professions across the fraternities of Zambia. All are welcome to join us in prayer and fellowship.
The Pardon of Assisi, a day of confession, Eucharist and prayer for the whole family of Francis.
Evening Mass honouring Saint Clare, the first woman to follow Francis, hosted by the Southern Deanery.
A day of teaching for candidates and formators from every deanery, on living the Rule in daily life.
The candlelit evening service remembering the passing of Saint Francis into eternal life.
Dates may shift with the liturgical calendar. Contact your local fraternity to confirm times and venues.
Join Us
Becoming a Secular Franciscan begins simply, with a visit to a local fraternity and a season of getting to know one another. There is no rush and no obligation. Formation unfolds gently over time before any profession is made.
Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.