Lay men and women have been attracted to the holiness of Saint Francis of Assisi for centuries. Among the laity, there continues to be an attraction to Saint Francis which the Lord uses to stir the hearts of the faithful to embrace the Gospel more earnestly. The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal seek to follow faithfully in the footsteps of Christ and Saint Francis by embracing the ideals of the Capuchin Franciscan reform. The friars are happy that they can offer others an opportunity to share in their life through the lay associates program.
How can I help?
The mission of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal takes many paths as the community seeks to help the poor both physically and spiritually. The Lay Associates have a number of opportunities to assist the Friars in this work.
Many individuals support the friars through prayer, donations of time, talent, treasure (and food), attendance at the monthly Associate Day events, and a number of other periodic events and projects.
Some examples are the Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas food drives, at which times food items are collected, packed into grocery bags and distributed to more than 200 families on each occasion.
The Associates work with the Friars to host holiday barbecues for the neighbors of Most Blessed Sacrament Friary, for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day holidays.
Associates also help provide hospitality on other occasions for the CFR community for celebrations such as the enactment of the Live Nativity.
Our friends are welcome to help in any way with any of these activities. Aside from the obvious benefits to the friars and their neighbors, these occasions serve as community-building opportunities for the associates and friends who take part. All are encouraged to attend Associate Days, and to learn more about these chances to serve.