Divine Mercy Fraternity

Divine Mercy Fraternity is a Secular Franciscan Fraternity in Vero Beach, Florida. The Secular Franciscan Order is an international Order for lay people who want to follow Jesus Christ and live the Gospel in the style of St. Francis of Assisi. It was founded by St. Francis himself on February 24, 1209. In 1978, its name was changed from Third Order of St. Francis, to the Secular Franciscan Order (SFO). In 2011, the acronym changed from SFO to OFS (Ordo Franciscanus Saecularis or Order of Secular Franciscans). These changes were approved by the Holy See.

Who are Secular Franciscans? The Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) is a branch of the worldwide Franciscan Family. We are single or married. We work, worship and play in the community where we live. Our purpose is to bring the Gospel to life where we live and where we work. We look for practical ways to embrace the Gospel in our lives and try to help others to do likewise. 

People wishing to join us must be devout Roman Catholics and will be given the opportunity to enter a 2-year formation period, starting with six months of Inquiry, and eighteen months of Candidacy. If the applicant and the Fraternity Council agree that they have satisfied the Order's requirements, they will be admitted to Profession. By profession, we promise to follow a Rule of Life approved and confirmed by Pope Paul VI in June of 1978. For additional information on the Secular Franciscan Order and Divine Mercy Fraternity, please contact us.

For "Frequently Asked Questions," our National Fraternity USA has a great series of questions at: https://www.secularfranciscansusa.org/frequently-asked-questions/

Home