Frequently Asked Questions About Tau Maria Franciscans Life

Any baptised Catholic, lay or ordained, who earnestly desires a deeper conversion in the spirit of Saint Francis may seek admission. Applicants should be practising the faith, open to ongoing formation, and willing to follow the Tau Maria Rule with humility.

Cordbearers embrace a simplified Rule designed to cultivate personal holiness while they discern a fuller commitment. Wearing the Franciscan cord, they attend monthly meetings, pray daily, and adopt practices of charity, penance, and simplicity suited to their current family or vocational circumstances.

Formation unfolds gradually: Postulancy lasts eight to twelve months, Novitiate one year, then temporary vows for three years before perpetual profession. Extensions are possible, ensuring each person internalises the Rule, Franciscan spirituality, and Church teaching at a prayerful, responsible pace.

Only those who freely discern God’s call to lifelong consecration proceed to perpetual vows. Cordbearers may remain indefinitely. Throughout the journey, spiritual directors and Area Ministers help candidates decide whether simple, private vows are appropriate or whether another vocation better suits them.

Professed members attend daily Mass when possible, pray Morning and Evening Prayer from the Divine Office, meditate thirty minutes silently, recite at least one rosary, and offer specific Franciscan prayers. Cordbearers follow the same spirit, substituting creeds and Our Fathers when necessary.

Yes. Many spouses and parents journey together, adapting the Rule to family life. Children often join certain prayers, service projects, and retreats, witnessing a tangible expression of Gospel simplicity. The fraternity supports each household in nurturing a domestic church rooted in Franciscan joy.

There are no obligatory dues. Members cover personal items—books, travel to gatherings, retreat fees—according to their means. Faithful to Franciscan poverty, we ask everyone to give only what Providence allows, trusting God and benefactors to sustain common formation resources.

Most fraternities gather in person for prayer and fellowship, but distance members can join supplemental video conferences, streamed talks, and email studies. Digital tools never replace sacramental community, yet they keep dispersed Franciscans connected between retreats and local regional meetings.

Start by contacting our Minister General or your nearest Area Minister, attending at least three monthly gatherings, and praying daily for clarity. During this time you may read the Handbook, speak with members, and review the Rule to sense the Spirit’s direction.

Tau Maria Franciscans are a private association recognised by local bishops under Canons 298-326. Leadership consists of an elected Minister General, regional Area Ministers, and a clerical Spiritual Adviser, all accountable to the diocesan ordinary and ultimately to the Holy See.