The Mission of the Order of Lutheran Franciscans

Taking our place within the tradition of the Franciscan family, we passionately follow Jesus,

rebuilding his Church, living lives of mutual care and accountability in harmony with the creeds and

confessions of the Lutheran Church and both in the spirit and practice of the Evangelical Counsels,

faithfully following the simple way of Saint Francis of Assisi.

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-from the General Rule of the Order of Lutheran Franciscans

The following four traditional Franciscan emphases guide our mission as an Order.

Accompanying the Poor

We are committed to being with the poor and marginalized of the world. We not only provide charity (i.e. providing for the basic needs of those in need), we engage in justice work that endeavors to change the systems that ultimately lead to poverty and marginalization.

Care of Creation

Franciscans have historically been known as lovers of nature, which is also a core Lutheran belief. Our sacramental and incarnational theology reminds us that Christ is present in and through creation, and we have a responsibility to be good stewards of what we have been given.

Spiritual Renewal

Francis had a vision of Christ beckoning him to "Rebuild my Church." At first he took the vision literally, but he began to realize that Christ was calling him to lead a spiritual renewal in the Church. Today, we continue this spiritual reformation through prayer and spiritual direction.

Ecumenical Bridge-Building

We believe that the Church is larger than any one denomination or religious order. We are invested in cultivating relationships with other Christians and Franciscans to engage in God's mission in the world.

The Order of Lutheran Franciscans is a member of:

Joint Committee

on

Franciscan Unity