An Introduction to the Companions of the Society of Saint Francis

The Companions of the Society of Saint Francis are a diverse and prayerful fellowship of people drawn to live in the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi. Though we are not vowed members of a religious order, we are bound by a shared desire to walk closely with Christ in simplicity, humility, and love—values that shaped the life and witness of Francis. The Companions’ movement provides a way for lay and ordained people to be spiritually connected to the Society of Saint Francis (SSF) and to draw from the wellspring of Franciscan tradition in their own lives.

The Society of Saint Francis itself was founded in the early 20th century within the Anglican Communion, inspired by the life and example of Saint Francis and the original Franciscan movement of the 13th century. In 1934, a group of Anglican men in England committed themselves to living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience in community. These early friars sought to recover the radical Gospel witness of Francis and his companions—one that emphasized joyful poverty, care for the poor and outcast, and deep communion with all creation.

As the Society grew to include brothers and sisters in different parts of the world, so too did the desire from others—especially those living outside of religious communities—to be spiritually connected to this Franciscan witness. Thus, the Companions of SSF emerged: people from all walks of life who, while not taking lifelong vows, commit themselves to living out the Franciscan spirit in their everyday circumstances.

The spirituality of the Companions is centered on a few key pillars:

• Simplicity of Life: Following the example of Saint Francis, Companions seek to live uncluttered lives—not just in possessions, but in spirit—focusing on what truly matters: God, neighbor, and the care of creation.
• Prayer and Contemplation: Companions commit to regular prayer, both individually and as part of the wider Franciscan community. Many draw strength from the Daily Office and practices of silent contemplation.
• Joyful Service: Franciscan spirituality is incarnational and grounded in loving action. Companions strive to serve others with joy, humility, and compassion—especially the marginalized and those in need.
• Peacemaking and Reconciliation: Francis was a peacemaker, even in the midst of violence and division. Companions are called to be instruments of peace in a world of conflict, promoting reconciliation in their communities and beyond.
• Care for Creation: Inspired by Francis’s deep kinship with all creatures and the natural world, Companions embrace ecological awareness as an expression of their faith.

Companions are united not by uniformity, but by a shared rhythm of life and a sense of spiritual companionship with the brothers and sisters of SSF. They meet in local groups when possible, support the work of the Society, and find mutual encouragement in a common commitment to the Gospel life.

To be a Companion is to join a centuries-old Franciscan journey—a path of joy, simplicity, and peace. It is to live a life shaped by Christ, inspired by Francis, and open to the transforming love of God in all things.