Frequently Asked Questions
Please read the following questions and items of interest which help to explain the various dimensions of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please email BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org. Thank You
Q - What are the Requirements to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - In Order to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits, You Agree that you have Read ALL of the FAQs on this page and also understand/agree to the Disclaimer below...
The Order of Franciscan Hermits is as an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans. Franciscans in another organization or members of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), who are committed to Rebuild the Church and Pray for WORLD PEACE, through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an "Associate."
Most people in our OFH Family are "Associates" and will remain so due to their commitment level to the OFH and their outside responsibilities either to their Primary Affiliation (membership in another Religious Community such as the Franciscan First, Second or Third Orders) or their spouses, children etc.
To become an OFH Associate, please join and actively participate in our Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group AND Join our OFH Email List. Your Facebook profile will be reviewed for the types of content you post on your Timeline/Profile. If your Facebook profile contains profanity, hate speech, bigotry, violence, inappropriate sexual references, contains more political posts than Spiritual posts, has multiple "Selfies" or has not been in existence for at least 6 months, you will not be approved become an Associate. Our Associates and Members should be primarily focused on Spiritual matters and the evidence is shown by what is posted on their personal Facebook timeline. If you have inappropriate posts, please remove them BEFORE you ask to Join our Facebook Group. You are welcome to post items of a political nature on your own timeline, but NOT within the OFH Facebook Group... the purpose and function of the OFH Facebook Group is to provide Spiritual Support to its Associates and Members and is where we "meet" as a community on a daily basis.
To be considered "Active" as an Associate or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, each person is encouraged to post at least 1 Prayer Request or Spiritual article of interest to Franciscans at least once per week for six months, then ongoing in the OFH Facebook Group (unless other provisions are made with the Guardian due to illness etc.). (This does NOT mean you need to post daily, but remember to share your special Prayer Requests when you have them.) Associates will not be considered for Membership until they have 6 months of Active participation within the Group.
Please limit your posts within the OFH Group to your daily Prayer Requests and uplifting Spiritual posts of interest to Franciscans. NO POLITICS; NO posts of hate of any kind; NO Controversial Topics which may spark Debates; NO Requests for people to Sign Petitions; NO fundraising posts unless to directly support the OFH (not specific OFH Chapters or Local Fraternities) and approved by BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org in advance; NO Promotion of other non-OFH FB Groups or Pages... posts of these nature will be deleted immediately as the OFH is not to support any political agenda, violence of any kind or topics which distract us from our purpose here and/or cause Division/Separation within our Group. St. Francis promoted LOVE and PEACE.
Our Facebook Group is very active... Please DO NOT feel you have to read or comment on EVERY post! If you are reading every post, you are spending too much time on the web! Our daily Prayer Requests are perhaps the most important post to read/pray about and the others are very good, but we really only need 1 good message or thought for the day to ponder. When you've found a good post, let that be enough to feed you and leave the rest. If the post is in another group, feel free to Share it to our OFH Group so the rest of us can enjoy. If you find a post in our Group you like, feel free to Share with other FB Groups or on your personal Timeline.
If, after a period of discernment and active participation in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year), if an Associate feels that they have found a "Home" in the OFH, they should contact Br. Paul (BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org) to discuss their desire to become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Discernment is a process between the Associate, the Guardian (Br. Paul) and the Holy Spirit. The Associate should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Associates wishing to become a Member may NOT already be a member of another Franciscan religious community (e.g. one of the First, Second or Third Order Communities etc.) Those Associates who wish to become an OFH Member who are in another Franciscan Community shall remain Associates unless they leave their former Community to join the OFH as a Member. We strongly encourage these Associates to remain in their existing Community to help build Unity within that Community. Associates and Members are equally Cherished within our Order of Franciscan Hermits Family. Membership signifies that you have found a "Home" in the OFH. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
Members and Associates of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, are all encouraged to daily participate in Initial and Ongoing Formation in the Spiritual Life. This should be centered on a balanced understanding of Sacred Scripture, church teachings, spiritual writings of the Church Fathers and Mothers, and Franciscan studies. All Members are expected to spend some time each day in religious study. One of the greatest disservices to yourself would be to neglect your personal formation program.
Please CLICK HERE for our OFH Formation Page
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
If at any time you wish to leave the Order of Franciscan Hermits, please email BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org and he will remove your profile and contact information from the website. You will always be part of our Franciscan Family.
Q - What is the Difference Between an Associate and a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - An "Associate" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits is someone who wishes to lovingly support and pray for the Members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, much like Oblates of Benedictine Communities. They are considered a part of the OFH Family and are included in the daily prayers of the Members of the Order. They do not have a personal profile on this website, but they should be members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group and have Joined our Email List, so they can receive our occasional Newsletters.
"Members" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits have actively participated in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year) as an Associate and, after prayerful discernment with the Guardian (Br. Paul), has determined that they have found a "Home" in the OFH. They should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Associates wishing to become a Member may NOT already be a member of another religious community (e.g. one of the First, Second or Third Order Communities etc.) Members are listed in our OFH Directory and have an OFH Member Profile created which gives basic information about the Member and his/her contact details they wish to share. They are free to use the initials "OFH" after their name to show their Fraternal Association with our Order. They are asked to pray for all OFH Associates and Members each day. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
Q - How do I become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - In order to become a "Member" of the OFH, you must first become an "Associate" by requesting to Join our Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group at http://FBGroup.FranciscanHermits.org AND Join our OFH Email List.
Only Associates who are not in another Franciscan Community (whether from the First, Second or Third Orders) may become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Associates who wish to become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, after a period of discernment and active participation in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year), if they feel that they have found a "Home" in the OFH, they should contact Br. Paul (BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org) to discuss their desire to become a Member. Discernment is a process between the Associate, the Guardian (Br. Paul) and the Holy Spirit. He or She should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Those Associates who wish to become an OFH Member who are in another Franciscan Community shall remain Associates unless they leave their former Community to join the OFH as a Member. We strongly encourage these Associates to remain in their existing Community to help build Unity within that Community. Associates and Members are equally Cherished within our Order of Franciscan Hermits Family. Membership signifies that you have found a "Home" in the OFH. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Do I have to be Catholic to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - No. While the Founder, Br. Paul, OFH is a Roman Catholic, the Order of Franciscan Hermits is as an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans. Franciscans in another organization or members of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), who are committed to Rebuild the Church and Pray for WORLD PEACE, through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an "Associate."
Q - What's a Hermit?
A - As Hermits, we cherish substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance. You don't have to live in a cave or on a mountaintop to be a Hermit... you don't have to be a recluse or eat grasshoppers to choose to commit to live a deeper Spiritual life in the "silence of solitude, and assiduous prayer and penance" (Canon 603). You choose to "Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
As an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans, the Order of Franciscan Hermits Associate's and Member's Mission or Calling is the same as St. Francis’ given by the Crucifix of San Damiano, to “Rebuild the Church” and Promote World Peace. We primarily accomplish this through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, striving to Build and Unite the Body of Christ which suffers from many divisions, fostering a more perfect life, and exercising other works of the apostolate (Canon 298).
We choose to focus on what UNITES us as Franciscans and Christians, rather than what Divides us, as St. Paul "begs" of us in Ephesians 4:1-6:
"therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all Humility and Gentleness, with Patience, bearing with one another in Love, making every effort to maintain the Unity of the Spirit in the bond of Peace. There is One Body and One Spirit, just as you were called to the One Hope of your calling, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God and Father of All, who is above All and through All and in All."
Because there is only "One Body... One Spirit... One Hope... One Faith... One Baptism... One God and Father of All" - Franciscans of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), are invited in the Spirit of Ecumenism and Fraternity, to be UNITED as One Greater Franciscan Community - You are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an Associate. We strive to Support and Foster a Sense of Belonging and Unity of Purpose, whatever personal Rule or background of any particular Associate or Member. Our Order provides a meeting place for like-minded Souls, Common Ground for those who feel called to the Contemplative Life, Blessed by Franciscan Charism and Spirituality.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits Ordain Priests?
A - No. The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments. You will need to contact your local Priest or the Vocations Office of your Church organization to inquire about the process and requirements of becoming a Priest. On our Franciscan Websites page, there are links to many Franciscan Orders and Congregations who you can contact regarding their Vocation process.
Q - What is a Primary and Secondary Affiliation?
A - If you are a Member of the First Order (OFMs, Conventuals, Capuchins), the Second Order (Poor Clares), Third Order (TOR, Secular Franciscans) or any other Congregation where you have taken Public or Private Vows or Promises, or if you are a Canon 603 Diocesan Hermit (with vows under your Diocesan Bishop) that is your Primary Affiliation and you are considered an "Associate" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits.
The Order of Franciscan Hermits is in no way to ever interfere with the customs and requirements of your Primary Affiliation.
For those OFH Associates who are not members of one of the groups listed in the first paragraph, you may ask to become a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits after six months of Active Participation within our OFH Facebook Group. Please see "How do I become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?" in the FAQ above. You may make Private or Public Vows or Promises as a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, but your Vows, if public, are taken in the hands of your Local Ordinary (Bishop) or priest and not with the Order of Franciscan Hermits. You will need their permission and must coordinate those details with them.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits provide Scholarships, Stipends or any other Financial Assistance to its Associates or Members?
A - No. Each Associate and/or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits is Independent and is responsible for his or her own financial support. We do not have scholarships for Seminarians or for any other ministerial support. Membership is voluntary and no dues or fees are ever collected to be a Member of the Order. No stipends are given to Members for being part of the Order.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits have a Formation Program for its Associates and Members?
A - Yes. As Members and Associates of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, we are all encouraged to daily participate in Initial and Ongoing Formation in the Spiritual Life. This should be centered on a balanced understanding of Sacred Scripture, church teachings, spiritual writings of the Church Fathers and Mothers, and Franciscan studies. All Members are expected to spend some time each day in religious study. One of the greatest disservices to yourself would be to neglect your personal formation program.
Please CLICK HERE for our OFH Formation Page
Q - When are you going to open a Monastery or Hermitage in India... Africa... Philippines...???
A - Since the Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity, it does not have authority as an organization (nor funding) to establish Hermitages or Monasteries anywhere.
Individual Associates and Members are free to open their homes and/or existing Hermitages and Monasteries to other OFH Associates and Members... The OFH, however, will not accept any responsibility for the management, funding or liability for any of its Members choosing to do so. All OFH Associates and Members are Independent and are responsible for their own financial support and are not authorized to conduct business in the name of or on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. If Members wish to create an Independent Hermitage or Monastery, they must create their own wholly-owned legal entity such as a non-profit organization or corporation.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Can I be a Member of or Join Another Religious Community and Also be an Associate of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - Absolutely, but only OFH Associates. OFH Members must choose to either remain committed to the OFH, or leave to join the other Community. If an OFH Member leaves, he/she can choose to remain an Associate of the OFH. Please read the FAQ above about "Primary and Secondary Affiliations".
If the other organization asks you to Leave the Order of Franciscan Hermits, you are free to leave at any time without any hard feelings. You will ALWAYS be part of our Franciscan Family and Brother or Sister in Christ.
Q - Can I be Married and Still be an Associate or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - Yes. Associates and Members are accepted for whatever state in life they are in, whether Single or Married.
Q - Do the Associates and Members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits Wear a Habit or have a Symbol to Wear?
A - Associates and/or Members who wish to wear a Symbol of their affiliation with the Order of Franciscan Hermits are encouraged to wear either the San Damiano crucifix which was what spoke to St. Francis and gave him his mission to "Rebuild the Church" or the Tau Cross as either a pendant or a lapel pin. Wearing a Symbol is optional and up to each person. Note: These are only samples of many designs available on Amazon.com. Lapel Pins are difficult to find and may be smaller than expected.
Q - What are the Requirements to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - In Order to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits, You Agree that you have Read ALL of the FAQs on this page and also understand/agree to the Disclaimer below...
The Order of Franciscan Hermits is as an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans. Franciscans in another organization or members of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), who are committed to Rebuild the Church and Pray for WORLD PEACE, through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an "Associate."
Most people in our OFH Family are "Associates" and will remain so due to their commitment level to the OFH and their outside responsibilities either to their Primary Affiliation (membership in another Religious Community such as the Franciscan First, Second or Third Orders) or their spouses, children etc.
To become an OFH Associate, please join and actively participate in our Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group AND Join our OFH Email List. Your Facebook profile will be reviewed for the types of content you post on your Timeline/Profile. If your Facebook profile contains profanity, hate speech, bigotry, violence, inappropriate sexual references, contains more political posts than Spiritual posts, has multiple "Selfies" or has not been in existence for at least 6 months, you will not be approved become an Associate. Our Associates and Members should be primarily focused on Spiritual matters and the evidence is shown by what is posted on their personal Facebook timeline. If you have inappropriate posts, please remove them BEFORE you ask to Join our Facebook Group. You are welcome to post items of a political nature on your own timeline, but NOT within the OFH Facebook Group... the purpose and function of the OFH Facebook Group is to provide Spiritual Support to its Associates and Members and is where we "meet" as a community on a daily basis.
To be considered "Active" as an Associate or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, each person is encouraged to post at least 1 Prayer Request or Spiritual article of interest to Franciscans at least once per week for six months, then ongoing in the OFH Facebook Group (unless other provisions are made with the Guardian due to illness etc.). (This does NOT mean you need to post daily, but remember to share your special Prayer Requests when you have them.) Associates will not be considered for Membership until they have 6 months of Active participation within the Group.
Please limit your posts within the OFH Group to your daily Prayer Requests and uplifting Spiritual posts of interest to Franciscans. NO POLITICS; NO posts of hate of any kind; NO Controversial Topics which may spark Debates; NO Requests for people to Sign Petitions; NO fundraising posts unless to directly support the OFH (not specific OFH Chapters or Local Fraternities) and approved by BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org in advance; NO Promotion of other non-OFH FB Groups or Pages... posts of these nature will be deleted immediately as the OFH is not to support any political agenda, violence of any kind or topics which distract us from our purpose here and/or cause Division/Separation within our Group. St. Francis promoted LOVE and PEACE.
Our Facebook Group is very active... Please DO NOT feel you have to read or comment on EVERY post! If you are reading every post, you are spending too much time on the web! Our daily Prayer Requests are perhaps the most important post to read/pray about and the others are very good, but we really only need 1 good message or thought for the day to ponder. When you've found a good post, let that be enough to feed you and leave the rest. If the post is in another group, feel free to Share it to our OFH Group so the rest of us can enjoy. If you find a post in our Group you like, feel free to Share with other FB Groups or on your personal Timeline.
If, after a period of discernment and active participation in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year), if an Associate feels that they have found a "Home" in the OFH, they should contact Br. Paul (BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org) to discuss their desire to become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Discernment is a process between the Associate, the Guardian (Br. Paul) and the Holy Spirit. The Associate should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Associates wishing to become a Member may NOT already be a member of another Franciscan religious community (e.g. one of the First, Second or Third Order Communities etc.) Those Associates who wish to become an OFH Member who are in another Franciscan Community shall remain Associates unless they leave their former Community to join the OFH as a Member. We strongly encourage these Associates to remain in their existing Community to help build Unity within that Community. Associates and Members are equally Cherished within our Order of Franciscan Hermits Family. Membership signifies that you have found a "Home" in the OFH. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
Members and Associates of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, are all encouraged to daily participate in Initial and Ongoing Formation in the Spiritual Life. This should be centered on a balanced understanding of Sacred Scripture, church teachings, spiritual writings of the Church Fathers and Mothers, and Franciscan studies. All Members are expected to spend some time each day in religious study. One of the greatest disservices to yourself would be to neglect your personal formation program.
Please CLICK HERE for our OFH Formation Page
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
If at any time you wish to leave the Order of Franciscan Hermits, please email BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org and he will remove your profile and contact information from the website. You will always be part of our Franciscan Family.
Q - What is the Difference Between an Associate and a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - An "Associate" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits is someone who wishes to lovingly support and pray for the Members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, much like Oblates of Benedictine Communities. They are considered a part of the OFH Family and are included in the daily prayers of the Members of the Order. They do not have a personal profile on this website, but they should be members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group and have Joined our Email List, so they can receive our occasional Newsletters.
"Members" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits have actively participated in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year) as an Associate and, after prayerful discernment with the Guardian (Br. Paul), has determined that they have found a "Home" in the OFH. They should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Associates wishing to become a Member may NOT already be a member of another religious community (e.g. one of the First, Second or Third Order Communities etc.) Members are listed in our OFH Directory and have an OFH Member Profile created which gives basic information about the Member and his/her contact details they wish to share. They are free to use the initials "OFH" after their name to show their Fraternal Association with our Order. They are asked to pray for all OFH Associates and Members each day. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
Q - How do I become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - In order to become a "Member" of the OFH, you must first become an "Associate" by requesting to Join our Order of Franciscan Hermits Facebook Group at http://FBGroup.FranciscanHermits.org AND Join our OFH Email List.
Only Associates who are not in another Franciscan Community (whether from the First, Second or Third Orders) may become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Associates who wish to become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, after a period of discernment and active participation in the Order of Franciscans Facebook Group (typically 6 months to a year), if they feel that they have found a "Home" in the OFH, they should contact Br. Paul (BrPaul@FranciscanHermits.org) to discuss their desire to become a Member. Discernment is a process between the Associate, the Guardian (Br. Paul) and the Holy Spirit. He or She should be inspired by the Life and Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, live a life of substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance and be over the age of 18. Those Associates who wish to become an OFH Member who are in another Franciscan Community shall remain Associates unless they leave their former Community to join the OFH as a Member. We strongly encourage these Associates to remain in their existing Community to help build Unity within that Community. Associates and Members are equally Cherished within our Order of Franciscan Hermits Family. Membership signifies that you have found a "Home" in the OFH. Inactive Members will be removed from our OFH website after 6 months of inactivity and will become Associates again.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Do I have to be Catholic to Join the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - No. While the Founder, Br. Paul, OFH is a Roman Catholic, the Order of Franciscan Hermits is as an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans. Franciscans in another organization or members of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), who are committed to Rebuild the Church and Pray for WORLD PEACE, through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an "Associate."
Q - What's a Hermit?
A - As Hermits, we cherish substantial silence, substantial solitude, contemplative prayer and penance. You don't have to live in a cave or on a mountaintop to be a Hermit... you don't have to be a recluse or eat grasshoppers to choose to commit to live a deeper Spiritual life in the "silence of solitude, and assiduous prayer and penance" (Canon 603). You choose to "Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
As an Ecumenical Association of Franciscans, the Order of Franciscan Hermits Associate's and Member's Mission or Calling is the same as St. Francis’ given by the Crucifix of San Damiano, to “Rebuild the Church” and Promote World Peace. We primarily accomplish this through contemplative prayer, compassionate dialogue, fraternal interaction, nonviolent action, and performing the good works asked of us in the Gospel, striving to Build and Unite the Body of Christ which suffers from many divisions, fostering a more perfect life, and exercising other works of the apostolate (Canon 298).
We choose to focus on what UNITES us as Franciscans and Christians, rather than what Divides us, as St. Paul "begs" of us in Ephesians 4:1-6:
"therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all Humility and Gentleness, with Patience, bearing with one another in Love, making every effort to maintain the Unity of the Spirit in the bond of Peace. There is One Body and One Spirit, just as you were called to the One Hope of your calling, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God and Father of All, who is above All and through All and in All."
Because there is only "One Body... One Spirit... One Hope... One Faith... One Baptism... One God and Father of All" - Franciscans of any Christian Church affiliation/denomination or canonical status (vowed or not; single or married), are invited in the Spirit of Ecumenism and Fraternity, to be UNITED as One Greater Franciscan Community - You are invited to join the Order of Franciscan Hermits as an Associate. We strive to Support and Foster a Sense of Belonging and Unity of Purpose, whatever personal Rule or background of any particular Associate or Member. Our Order provides a meeting place for like-minded Souls, Common Ground for those who feel called to the Contemplative Life, Blessed by Franciscan Charism and Spirituality.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits Ordain Priests?
A - No. The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments. You will need to contact your local Priest or the Vocations Office of your Church organization to inquire about the process and requirements of becoming a Priest. On our Franciscan Websites page, there are links to many Franciscan Orders and Congregations who you can contact regarding their Vocation process.
Q - What is a Primary and Secondary Affiliation?
A - If you are a Member of the First Order (OFMs, Conventuals, Capuchins), the Second Order (Poor Clares), Third Order (TOR, Secular Franciscans) or any other Congregation where you have taken Public or Private Vows or Promises, or if you are a Canon 603 Diocesan Hermit (with vows under your Diocesan Bishop) that is your Primary Affiliation and you are considered an "Associate" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits.
The Order of Franciscan Hermits is in no way to ever interfere with the customs and requirements of your Primary Affiliation.
For those OFH Associates who are not members of one of the groups listed in the first paragraph, you may ask to become a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits after six months of Active Participation within our OFH Facebook Group. Please see "How do I become a "Member" of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?" in the FAQ above. You may make Private or Public Vows or Promises as a Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, but your Vows, if public, are taken in the hands of your Local Ordinary (Bishop) or priest and not with the Order of Franciscan Hermits. You will need their permission and must coordinate those details with them.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits provide Scholarships, Stipends or any other Financial Assistance to its Associates or Members?
A - No. Each Associate and/or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits is Independent and is responsible for his or her own financial support. We do not have scholarships for Seminarians or for any other ministerial support. Membership is voluntary and no dues or fees are ever collected to be a Member of the Order. No stipends are given to Members for being part of the Order.
Q - Does the Order of Franciscan Hermits have a Formation Program for its Associates and Members?
A - Yes. As Members and Associates of the Order of Franciscan Hermits, we are all encouraged to daily participate in Initial and Ongoing Formation in the Spiritual Life. This should be centered on a balanced understanding of Sacred Scripture, church teachings, spiritual writings of the Church Fathers and Mothers, and Franciscan studies. All Members are expected to spend some time each day in religious study. One of the greatest disservices to yourself would be to neglect your personal formation program.
Please CLICK HERE for our OFH Formation Page
Q - When are you going to open a Monastery or Hermitage in India... Africa... Philippines...???
A - Since the Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity, it does not have authority as an organization (nor funding) to establish Hermitages or Monasteries anywhere.
Individual Associates and Members are free to open their homes and/or existing Hermitages and Monasteries to other OFH Associates and Members... The OFH, however, will not accept any responsibility for the management, funding or liability for any of its Members choosing to do so. All OFH Associates and Members are Independent and are responsible for their own financial support and are not authorized to conduct business in the name of or on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. If Members wish to create an Independent Hermitage or Monastery, they must create their own wholly-owned legal entity such as a non-profit organization or corporation.
*DISCLAIMER: The Order of Franciscan Hermits is not affiliated with any established legal or ecclesiastic entity and will NOT be held responsible for actions of any kind of any of its independent Associates or Members. Membership does not convey ministerial authorization to perform Sacraments or to conduct business on behalf of the Order of Franciscan Hermits. Members (not Associates) may use the initials OFH after their names to show their Fraternal Association with the Order, but no other benefits or guarantees are implied other than use of this website and associated social media to help facilitate communication with the Members. The Order of Franciscan Hermits reserves the right to revoke Individual Membership and/or change and amend the terms of membership at any time without notice. Associates and Members are expected to be respectful of others and only post appropriate, non-political information of interest to world-wide Franciscans.
Q - Can I be a Member of or Join Another Religious Community and Also be an Associate of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - Absolutely, but only OFH Associates. OFH Members must choose to either remain committed to the OFH, or leave to join the other Community. If an OFH Member leaves, he/she can choose to remain an Associate of the OFH. Please read the FAQ above about "Primary and Secondary Affiliations".
If the other organization asks you to Leave the Order of Franciscan Hermits, you are free to leave at any time without any hard feelings. You will ALWAYS be part of our Franciscan Family and Brother or Sister in Christ.
Q - Can I be Married and Still be an Associate or Member of the Order of Franciscan Hermits?
A - Yes. Associates and Members are accepted for whatever state in life they are in, whether Single or Married.
Q - Do the Associates and Members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits Wear a Habit or have a Symbol to Wear?
A - Associates and/or Members who wish to wear a Symbol of their affiliation with the Order of Franciscan Hermits are encouraged to wear either the San Damiano crucifix which was what spoke to St. Francis and gave him his mission to "Rebuild the Church" or the Tau Cross as either a pendant or a lapel pin. Wearing a Symbol is optional and up to each person. Note: These are only samples of many designs available on Amazon.com. Lapel Pins are difficult to find and may be smaller than expected.
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Members of the Order of Franciscan Hermits (NOT Associates) can wear a habit of their own choosing for private devotion or when gathering with other OFH Members, but must receive the permission of their Local Ordinary (Bishop or Priest) to wear the habit in public. Members must always follow the customs and guidance of their church denomination regarding the wearing of religious garb. Associates do NOT wear a habit unless they are in another Religious Community that wears one.
