Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life

The Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life provides courses in Franciscan studies to adult learners in a distance-education format. Courses earn “Institute Units” toward a Certificate in Contemporary Franciscan Life, which requires the completion of 10 Institute Units (IUs).

Courses are designed to further Secular Franciscan knowledge and formation in areas of history, spirituality, and the Franciscan way of life. Courses are intended for Secular Franciscans and anyone interested in learning more about Catholic Franciscan values and their influence on contemporary society.

Mission Statement

Recognizing that Franciscan formation is a life-long process, the Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life offers a program of study to deepen knowledge of the Franciscan heritage. The focus of the program is independent adult learning and distance education for those interested in the Franciscan way of life.

In addition to providing formational needs for Secular Franciscans and Franciscan resources for all interested individuals, the Institute serves a broader educational mission by developing courses which can be integrated into the curriculum of Saint Francis University.

The certificate program of study:

Provides formational and educational preparation in at least three areas of Franciscanism: Franciscan spirituality; Gospel living in the contemporary world; and Franciscan family history;
Builds competence in Franciscanism with emphasis on the application of the teachings of Jesus, in the tradition of Francis and Clare, in today’s world;
Prepares for a possible role of formation and leadership in the national, regional, or local level of a Secular Franciscan fraternity;
Leads to a Certificate in Contemporary Franciscan Life