Mission Statement:
Recognizing that Franciscan formation is a life-long process, the Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life offers a program of study which seeks to deepen the knowledge of Secular Franciscans and others in the areas of Franciscan sources and life. The Institute provides a framework in which the heritage of Francis of Assisi and the Secular Franciscan Order under the Rule of 1978 can be studied. The focus of the program is independent adult learning and distance education for those interested in the Franciscan life.
Goals:
The Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life focuses on the educational, spiritual, and formative needs of the Secular Franciscan Order and other interested learners.
The Institute is designed to provide a context in which to integrate Catholic Franciscan tradition, contemporary culture, and Franciscan commitment into one's life.
Objectives:
The Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life strives to address the formative and educational needs of the Secular Franciscan Order and other interested persons in at least three areas of Franciscanism:
Christian and Franciscan Tradition
Tradition and the Contemporary World
Franciscanism and the Contemporary World
The Institute utilizes distance education initiatives and methodology to provide the learner with an individualized, self-paced program of study.
The Institute serves as a model for collaboration among members of the Secular Franciscan Order, the Institute itself, and the sponsoring higher education institution, Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania.
The Institute encourages Secular Franciscans in their roles and responsibilities as spiritual leaders in contemporary society.
The Institute continues to develop and participate in the "vital reciprocity" among Franciscans.