Associates of the CFC
Seeking to live a life of simplicity, fidelity, and humility.
INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
The message of love portrayed by Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi have inspired people in many faiths and walks of life around the world. The Associates Program of the Community of Francis and Clare (CFC) is designed to deepen and strengthen the faith of those participating by sharing a special bond through prayer and relationships with the CFC. Associates of the CFC will be invited to develop their commitments by designing their own Personal Rule of Life to strive to live the gospel life in simplicity, fidelity, and humility.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’s):
WHAT ARE ASSOCIATES OF THE CFC?
Associates of the CFC, though not in vows, have a special relationship with the Community. They are committed to anchoring their daily lives through prayer and ministry. A Mentor will accompany them on their spiritual journey. It is our hope that Associates will share a common love of God’s creation, show hospitality to all and experience radical joy and love.
WHO CAN BECOME AN ASSOCIATE?
Associates of the CFC are persons at least 18 years of age, lay or ordained and come from various Christian faith traditions. People seeking an intentional life dedicated to loving and serving the marginalized and all creation with humility in the footsteps of Francis and Clare.
WHAT IS A PERSONAL RULE OF LIFE?
Central to being an Associate of the CFC is the development of a Personal Rule of Life which may include:
· Daily Prayer
· Worship – attend regular worship
· Study – going deeper into the scriptures and especially Franciscan spirituality
· Retreat – participating in an annual retreat for reflection and refreshment
· Ministry – be involved in serving others
· Support – fellow Associates with prayer and sharing time and talents
· Communication – communicate with other Associates and your Mentor on a regular basis
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AS AN ASSOCIATE?
1. Associates are encouraged to meet with regional CFC groups (if available), both online and in person, for fellowship and prayer.
2. A private Facebook page for Associates will be available along with other online resources.
3. Opportunities for education and fellowship through the CFC will be offered as available.
4. The eNewsletter of the CFC will have an “Associates Corner” for Associates to submit news and share information about their faith journey.
5. Associates may be incorporated into the prayer life of the Community.
6. Each Associate will be assigned a “Mentor” who will walk with them on their journey. The Associate and Mentor develop their own schedule when and how often they would like to meet.
WHAT ARE THE VALUES OF THE CFC?
Associates, as with entire CFC, have common values: we oppose racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, political or religious bigotry, and any other belief system that demeans the dignity of any child of God. We further oppose any discrimination based on economic status, social status, or class (Rule and Journey of Life, p. 20).
HOW DO I BECOME AN ASSOCIATE?
1. Prayer and reflection are important first steps in the process of discerning any religious calling. It is recommended that applicants speak to their priest, pastor, or spiritual director or trusted spiritual friend.
2. Fill out the form and request more information from the CFC website.
3. Applicant will be contacted by a representative of the CFC working with Associates to begin a conversation.
4. An application form and recommendation form will be sent to applicants. Those documents should be completed and returned along with your Safe Church Training certification.
5. Once the application and supporting documents are reviewed, Applicant will be assigned a Mentor to continue the discernment process, and to guide the development of their Personal Rule of Life (there is no timeline for this process).
6. Applicant will be formally received as an Associate and may use the letters aCFC behind their name if they wish and be given a wood Tau Cross pendant as a reminder of the commitments they have made.
Contact us for more information…
Are you interested in finding out more about becoming an Associate in the Community of Francis and Clare? If so, fill out the form below and hit “submit”. Someone from the CFC will contact you soon to begin a conversation.