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Marian Friars Minor - Third Order_ Vacaville, CA members

 Marian Friars Minor - Third Order (Vacaville Chapter, California)

Marian Friars Minor-Third Order


Our Focus and Purpose:

What is true RELIGIOUS LIFE for a Lay-person and does it still exist in today's age?  

What is "The RULE" that St. Francis spoke of?  

...and if you keep "The Rule" of St. Francis faithfully until death, yes, you are guaranteed ETERNAL LIFE.

What is the Third Order

Many Catholics may not fully understand what a Third Order is.  It is a genuine vocation for lay people (and sometimes diocesan priests) to live out the spirituality and charism of a religious order "in the world", without taking solemn vows like religious brothers or sisters. The emphasis is about pursuing holiness within your secular life.


Firstly, ... in the year of 1221, St. Francis promised his followers a Rule that would satisfy their newly awakened spirit of piety and desire to do penance, without quitting the world, and enable them to work out the salvation of their souls.  This promise became the Rule of the Third Order of Penance.  

·         Highlights of the Marian Friars Minor Charism: here we will try to articulate the unique aspects of the Marian Friars Minor spirituality. This involves:

o    Marian Devotion: We emphasize the deep love for and consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and how this is central to our way of life.1

o   Franciscan Spirituality: Since "Friars Minor" indicates a Franciscan charism, the Third Order follows the Rule of St. Francis (the 1221 Rule, namely the one adapted by Pope Leo XIII), focusing on evangelical prayer, poverty (in spirit and detachment), penance, and humility, as lived out in the world.2

o   Holiness and Sanctification: Our clear purpose is to help members achieve personal sanctification and lead others to salvation through our example.3

o   Contempt for the World (in a spiritual sense): the Third Order helps members detach from worldly excesses and focus on spiritual growth, while still living in the world.4 This doesn't mean isolation, but a deliberate choice to prioritize Christ.

o   Community and Formation: Stress the importance of community meetings, shared prayer, and ongoing formation that helps members grow in their faith and understanding of the Rule.


·         Addressing Misconceptions: Clarification is needed to note that Third Order members are not "quasi-friars" or attempting to live a monastic life amidst secular obligations.5 They are authentic laity bringing the gifts of the order's spirituality into the secular world.

Check out our main website... About Us...

What is the object of the Third Order? ...Franciscan kindness in plenitude means "devoting oneself to the salvation of one's neighbor, comforting his body in order to cure his soul, sacrificing oneself for all out of love for God and Christ crucified." -pg. 21-22, Franciscan Perfection by Rev. Cesaire de Tours, OFM Cap.     

 Marian Friars Minor- Third Order 


The process of "discerning" the Rule is known as "Novitiate" (a period of discernment for one year). This will help you with discovering your vocation.  


Secondly, ... we have a MONTHLY CHAPTER MEETING.  You are welcome to find out more about us and our Local Chapter.  Join us and learn how...

 "St. Francis always had his eyes fixed on the face of Christ" -Thomas Celano   

When:  every 3rd Saturday of each month at 8am (after 7am daily Mass and a Rosary at the rear of the church).

Where:  during summer months (at tables in front of Parish Hall)...during winter in Parish Hall, Room # TBD. 

How:  "Zoom-Call" Meeting led by Superior Friar Anthony, the (First Order) Friars and attended by novices around the world. Contact Br. Luchesius below by phone and he will give you a link to the call.

Discussion:  Q&A after each meeting.  A reading from the "Saint of the Day", Book of Franciscan Saints by Habig. 

-Our Vacaville Chapter Meeting Flyer: Flyer_Monthly Chapter Mtg 2025

 



Thirdly, ... when the Holy Ghost inspires an apostolic man or woman, and you feel you are a chosen soul, you may begin this spiritual process of decision-making which seeks to align one's will with God's will, guiding them to make choices that reflect their faith and values. Prayer, reflection, and seeking guidance from Scripture and a trusted spiritual advisor.  The process begins with "Discernment"... 

Are you interested in Discerning the Third Order? Do you need to discern with a Friar or a Vocational Director?  Contact one of us below....

For more information contact:  Brother Luchesius 707-631-1545; email: franciscan.life@gmail.com ...or contact: Brother Jude at johnellaera@gmail.com  



Here are 4 videos for the layman discerning vocation to "authentic" Secular Religious Life:

I. The Most Pernicious Obstacle to Holiness: Self-Centeredness

II. How to Discern a Vocation and Teach Others - Marian Friars Minor

III. Thinking about Self: the Great Hindrance in the Way of Perfection - Marian Friars Minor

IV.  Thoughts Start War, if the gate is not closed. (on Spiritual Warfare)

 

Books to read which allow us to grow in our faith life of Franciscan Spirituality:


 (The book that influenced St. Teresa of Avila)

1. Marian Seraphic Guide (received upon vesting into Third Order).

2. Pilgrimage for the Love of God - unknown Friar

3. Itinerary of the Franciscan Soul - Fr. Leon Veuthey, OFM. Conventual

4. The Third Spiritual Alphabet - Fray Francisco De Osuna

5. Spiritual Life & Progress - David of Augsburg

6. Franciscan Perfection - Rev. Cesaire de Tours, OFM. Cap.

7. St. Francis Manual (14th Ed) - Rev. Clementine Deymann, OFM.

8. The Spiritual Life - Rev. Adolfe Tanquerey, SS, DD.

*the above list is for suggested reading and are covered during the "Monthly Zoom Meetings" by Fra. Anthony.  


Ora Pro Nobis (Let us pray...)

AVE MARIA! Let us pray..."O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee, and to those who do not have recourse to thee, especially for the enemies of the Holy Church and those recommended to Thee." +Amen

The Blessing of Our Holy Father Saint Francis ..."May the Lord bless you (us) and keep you (us).  May He show His face to you (us) and have mercy on you (us).  May He turn His countenance toward you (us) and give you (us) peace.  +++ Amen. 

🙏😇

Our local group is a relatively new chapter that began on St. Francis of Assisi's Feast Day, October 4, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.



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Older posts:

Quote: "All is vanity but love God and serve Him alone" - Thomas A Kempis



*SPECIAL NOTES:

...a few links to Friar Anthony's recent talks: 

1. Why Even Strong Souls Fall Back into Sin (weakness of Man and concupiscence)
2. From the Crib to the Cross- Spring Concert 2025  (the Singing Friars in Spring)




-PAX ET BONUM (Peace and All Good)🙏

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