OUR STORY
 We are the Order of Saint Francis (OSF), a contemporary expression of the Franciscan tradition within the Anglican Communion. Founded in 2003 by Br. Nicholas Kis in the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, we are now blessed with brothers serving Christ across the world. Our bishop visitor is The Right Reverend Jos Tharakan the XIV Bishop of Idaho.

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We see all creation as having God’s presence: Brother Sun, Sister Moon, and all living and non-living things: rocks, flowers, trees, and creatures of the earth. Inspired by Saint Francis’s reverence for nature, we strive to live in harmony with the earth and its communities, embracing ecological justice as part of our Gospel witness.

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We are diverse in that we have brothers that align with different styles of worship and theological emphasis within the tradition (high church, low church, and broad-church). We have brothers that are in all orders of the Church: Lay, Priests, and Deacons. While a brother must be a minimum of 18 years of age to join, there is no upper age limit. We are a welcoming and inclusive order for those who identify as male regardless of gender assigned at birth, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or marital status—because we believe God’s call is not limited by status or orientation. What matters is the heart’s desire to follow Christ in the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi.

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LIVING THE GOSPEL

Our brothers live independently, not in monasteries, but in neighborhoods and parishes; embedded in the life of the world. We serve the poor, the lonely, the hungry, those who are marginalized, not from a distance, but in solidarity. We walk with those on the margins, learning Christ’s love in their stories and striving to be transformed by their witness. Like Jesus who sent his disciples out and St. Francis of Assisi who sent his brothers out, our ministries are shaped by the needs of our local communities and the call of the Gospel.

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Since our brothers are geographically diverse, we rely on the internet to create opportunities for connection through prayer, formation, and fellowship. While smaller groups may gather throughout the year for retreats or informal fellowship, we convene all brothers in person once a year for our annual convocation, typically held at the beautiful DeKoven Center in Racine, Wisconsin.

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As followers of Francis, we are called to be peacemakers, crossing boundaries, healing divisions, and walking alongside those wounded by injustice. Our ministries reflect a commitment to reconciliation and restorative justice, wherever the Spirit leads. Simplicity is not austerity, it is freedom. We embrace a life uncluttered by excess, finding joy in what is essential and sacred. This joyful simplicity allows us to live with gratitude, generosity, and openness to the Spirit. Our prayer life is simple and steady, a rhythm of presence that grounds us in God’s love. Whether in solitude or community, prayer shapes our days and deepens our commitment to Christ and one another.

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JOIN THE JOURNEY

Membership is open to those confirmed within the Anglican Communion who feel drawn to live by a set of simple or solemn vows. Through these vows we reflect our commitment to live simply, with chastity, and humility. You can explore our Rule of Life and Vows documents on the Vocations Page.

 

If you’re discerning a deeper way of living; one that integrates fraternity, prayer, faith, justice, and community; we invite you to learn more. Visit our Brothers Page to meet those who walk this path and explore our Ministry Page or Photos Page for glimpses of our life and ministry.

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You are welcome here. And if something in this speaks to your soul, we’d love to walk with you. Please send us an email to vocations@orderofsaintfrancis.org .

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Peace and all good.