OUR MISSION
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
OUR AFFIRMATION
The Order of Lutheran Franciscans invites all members of the ELCA to inquire and discern the Franciscan way of life within this community, including those of any race, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, relationship status, socio-economic status, education level, or physical abilities.
The Order of Lutheran Franciscans is a Reconciling in Christ community.
OUR FOUNDATIONS
ACCOMPANYING THE POOR
We are committed to being with the poor and marginalized of the world. We not only provide acts of charity (i.e. providing for basic needs), we engage in works of justice and advocacy that seek to change the systems that lead poverty and marginalization.
CARE OF CREATION
Franciscans have historically been known as lovers of nature. Our Lutheran incarnational theology also reminds us that Christ is present in and through creation, and we have a responsibility to be good stewards of God's beautiful creation.
INTERRELIGIOUS
BRIDGE-BUILDING
We believe the Church is larger than any one denomination or religious order. We are invested in cultivating relationships with other Christians and Franciscans, as well as those of other faiths, to engage God's mission in the world.
SPIRITUAL RENEWAL
Francis had a vision of Christ beckoning him to "rebuild my Church," eventually realizing that God was calling him to lead spiritual renewal in the Church. Today, we continue this spiritual reformation. Many of our OLF siblings are trained and certified spiritual directors.