Humility, simplicity, and devotion – these are the three main values of Franciscans. The members of the Franciscan Order value a simple, communal life above all. The friars dedicate their lives to helping the poor, oppressed, and marginalized through prayer and work. The Franciscans of old abandoned all their possessions, taking a vow of poverty, but modern friars of the Order adapted to busy contemporary life differently.
The members of OFM (Order of Friars Minor) now fulfill the role of social workers and teachers. The life of a Franciscan attracts a lot of new members with its simplicity and spiritual freedom – there’s a lot to learn about it!
How Did Franciscans of Old Live?
The Franciscans are led by the example of St. Francis of Assisi, the Order’s founder and one of the most venerated Christian figures. Francis of Assisi’s life perfectly represents the Order’s values: born into a wealthy noble family, he cast aside all his titles and possessions to lead a simple life as a wandering preacher. But he did not retreat into a monastery like the catholic monks would often do; instead, Francis lived as a traveling penitent, restoring chapels and nursing society’s outcasts.
Similarly to St. Francis’ example, members of the Order do not withdraw from society. Although they lead modest and simple lives, they stay in touch with the world outside the monastery, working as helpers and teachers. This is the main difference between friars and monks: the latter retreat from society and lose contact with the outside, while the former remain and help it from within. The mendicant friars, however, were still exposed to forfeiting their status in society and could not keep their possessions and money.
Lifestyle of a Modern Franciscan Friar
While giving up everything in service of God and community is a noble goal, not many people can bear this responsibility. Thankfully, modern Franciscans are not expected to follow St. Francis’ example to the tee. While friars of the Order have to lead modest lives inside small communities, they’re allowed to own necessities and even some amenities. This includes bare necessities like clothing, books, etc., and even the modern lifestyle stuff like computers, laptops, and smartphones!
Modern Franciscans are also allowed to attain status. However, they make a distinction between status of wealth and power — this is against the Order’s tenets — and academic status. Franciscans value education and a sharp mind, and many members hold advanced degrees in everything from philosophy and theology to biology, ecology, and mathematics! That said, Franciscans also have a hierarchy inside the Order, so some “power” status is still there. However, for Franciscans, power inside the Order is no privilege – it’s a responsibility to preserve community values. Plus, the high-ranking positions inside the Order are often temporary.
What Do Franciscans Do For Fun?
The life of a Franciscan is hard work and devotion to the community. However, it’s not like friars don’t get any free time for themselves! The Order knows the value of personal time for hobbies and enjoyable activities. Let’s dispel some misconceptions about what kind of hobbies Franciscans allow. They’re not just all bookworms – modern friars can enjoy a wide variety of fun activities that suit just about every taste out there!
- Praying. Meditation and reflection aren’t just something Franciscans do out of necessity—they revel in them, enjoying dialogue with God even in their free time.
- Reading. There’s no denying that Franciscans love their books! Reading books about theology, spirituality, and philosophy, as well as fiction, fantasy, and other personal interests, is very common among Franciscans.
- Outdoors. Love for nature is a core tenet in the Order, so no wonder many Franciscans love spending time outdoors. Hiking and camping are among the most popular hobbies there. Additionally, many friars love gardening!
- Music and Art. Many Franciscans play musical instruments. Order’s love of music and arts is not as boring as you’d think – many Friars enjoy different genres of music, from classical to metal and hip hop!
- Playing. Sports, cards, and board games are all OK! Many Franciscans can even play video games on their personal PCs or phones—as long as they are not addictive.
Chess, Minecraft, football – whatever you like, you can keep playing it after joining the Franciscans! It might be surprising to the reader, but the Order also allows sports betting and even gambling! The teaching endorses games and activities that exercise the mind – think of Poker and similar games. Even gambling games of pure chance, sports betting, and fantasy sports are allowed. As long as gambling remains a recreational, fun hobby and not an addiction, Franciscans can partake in it.
Summing Up Franciscan Lifestyle
The lifestyle of a Franciscan friar revolves around humility, simplicity, and devotion, but it’s far from isolated or rigid. Franciscans serve society while embracing modest living. Modern friars still renounce wealth and power, but they’re not cut off from contemporary life—they use technology, pursue education, and enjoy tons of different hobbies. Life inside a Franciscan community is never boring: the members are allowed to partake in various hobbies, from traditional prayer and reading to even video games! The Franciscan life offers spiritual freedom and balance, combining service with personal growth and some fun time for yourself.
