Could a Franciscan join a different Order?

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Could a Franciscan or a member of any other Religious Order leave that Order to join a different Order? Example: Could a Franciscan Friar become a Dominican Friar?
 
One could always discern out before final vows and join another order. After final vows, it is possible, but very rare and difficult for one to join a different order. That goes for Franciscans, along with most other religious orders.
 
I don’t know whether this case applies, but St. Anthony of Padua left the Augustinians to join the Franciscans. I’m guessing he had to get permission from his superiors.
 
Yes, you can.

Yes, it is difficult, if in temporary vows.

Even more difficult, if in permanent or solemn vows.

Can also become a secular cleric, and vice versa, also quite difficult.

That’s why it takes years before making permanent vows.

Deacon Christopher
 
Even before final vows it’s difficult. Most communities would expect you to take some time out in between leaving one order and applying to another - at least enough to allow your vows to lapse. Alternatively, you could apply for what’s called an indult of departure - allowing you to leave before your vows expire (although only a religious in final vows may formally apply
for a transfer to another institute).

After final profession you’d need the consent of the supreme moderator (aka Superior General) of each institute (and one you’re in and the one you want to go to) and with the consent of their respective councils. The probationary period for those transferring is a minimum of three years but some institutes may permit or require more than three years. However, you’re not obliged to continue in the new order and can still return to the former one before profession. Alternatively, a member of a religious order who’s a priest can decided to become “secularized” - in other words, become a diocesan priest (if the diocesan bishop will accept him of course)
 
I know a woman who was a Franciscan sister in final vows who transferred to a Dominican community–where, after a period of additional formation, she took perpetual vows. It has happened.
 
Lots of sisters have transferred, if that is what you are curious about. I know tons.
 
I know of a Jesuit who became a Benedictine monk. For what it’s worth, my Jesuit friend says that if he had tried to go the other way, the Jesuits would have rejected him; they don’t want to be anyone’s second choice.
 
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