|
|
| |
 |
| |
| The Associates of the Franciscan
Friars of the Renewal are lay men and women who desire to
follow Christ in the way of St. Francis of Assisi. Following
the example of St. Francis who founded the Third Order for
the lay men and women of his day. The Franciscan Friars of
the Renewal UK began the Associate program in 2000 for lay
men and women who are attracted to the lifestyle and works
of the Friars. Each of the Associates has come to know the
Franciscan Friars of the Renewal through events such as parish
missions, Youth 2000 retreats, and other activities involving
the Friars. Every associate has been drawn to support the
life and mission of the Friars especially through serving
the poor at Friar Benet's Kitchen, St Fidelis Friary night
shelter and first Saturdays. In return, the Friars offer each
Associate assistance in their life of prayer and spiritual
growth.
|
|
|
|
| The Associates meet as a group the first
Saturday of the month in Canning Town for a day of
prayer, service and fellowship. A typical day begins at 12:30
pm with Holy Mass followed by lunch while the Associates exchange
greetings with one another and with the Friars. After lunch,
each member is assigned some type of work duty which assists
the mission of the Friars. Work assignments include such chores
as sorting donated clothing, preparing food, maintaining/cleaning
the Kitchen and Shelter for the homeless, gardening, and other
means of serving the poor. At the end of the work period there
is a tea break followed by a talk given by a friar. Holy Hour
with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction begins
at 5 pm. Following the prayer time with our Eucharistic Lord,
there is time for informal sharing over supper (each person
brings a dish). The day comes to a close with Night Prayer. |
| In addition to the first Saturdays in Canning
Town, the Associates have an annual weekend retreat. Every two
years the Associates plan a pilgrimage to a Holy Site. |
If you are interested in learning more about
the Associates of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal
please contact: Br. John Paul, C.F.R. at 0207 474 0766 |
| |
|
|
