Are the secular Franciscans only for women?

[Mercury7]

Last week I was reading our parish bulletin and noticed a small comment about the secular Franciscans. I did quite a bit of research on the subject and now have more questions! The biggest concern I have is this: Are the secular Franciscans basically an order for women? After reading several sites I have become a little insecure. I’ve thought about going to their next meeting, but being the only married man there is not something I want to do.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

Three saints who were secular Franciscans (or the equivalent, by which the order existed in their day) were St. Thomas More, St. Pius X, and Bl. John XXIII. That should demonstrate that men can be secular Franciscans.

It is an unfortunate fact that men are far less likely to be involved in religious groups if they perceive the group to be a “woman’s thing.” Perhaps your presence in this secular Franciscan group in your area might help other Catholic men to see that the vocation to be a secular Franciscan can indeed be a “manly” endeavor. I do recommend though that, rather than showing up at the next meeting, that you call the group’s leader or contact person and request more information about the possibility of visiting the group’s next meeting for purposes of vocational discernment.