As I begin my tenure as the executive director of the Franciscan Federation, I’m experiencing a bit of a homecoming. For the past few years, I have been working outside of the Franciscan charism, exploring how charism, in general, is celebrated and lived through other religious orders. I’m so happy my journey has brought me back to the Franciscan world.
In the first few weeks of returning, something has struck me as especially meaningful: the preferential option for relationship that all Franciscans celebrate. As I’ve hopped on zoom calls to meet with colleagues from years past and to meet new friends and collaborators, I have been greeted with a warm, open invitation for relationship. Of course, this is not a novel concept for Franciscans, especially as we celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Canticle of Creatures, a document that highlights the interconnected relationship of all of creation. This unique experience of connection is synonymous with the Franciscan charism, and I’m particularly grateful to be reminded of it as I begin my tenure leading the Franciscan Federation.
The Franciscan Federation’s foundation is and always will be the women and men of the Third Order Regular, whose commitment to the success and sustainability of the Federation has brought us to where we are today. In recent years, this foundation has begun to grow into an ever-evolving group of Franciscans who seek to deepen the understanding and love of the Franciscan movement in our world. The Federation now extends membership to others in the Franciscan world, including associates, secular Franciscans, and anyone who wishes to know St. Francis and St. Clare in a deeper way. Through collaborative relationships across the Franciscan family, the Federation promotes the exploration and study of Franciscan Evangelical Life and its implications for our contemporary world. It provides networking opportunities and resources to further ignite Franciscan values, while also creating space for the emergence of new ideas. This inclusive approach reflects the Federation’s commitment to fostering a diverse Franciscan community that supports one another in living out the Franciscan charism.
It is an exciting time to be part of the Federation as we expand our intentional family. I invite you to join us by considering membership, which offers several enriching benefits. Members receive our quarterly newsletter, which highlights our work within the Federation and with other Franciscan partners. You’ll also have access to virtual events that provide both spiritual and academic offerings, as well as new in-person events. Additionally, our highly anticipated annual meeting will soon return, bringing together members from across the Franciscan community.
Now is the time to embrace the Franciscan way of life more fully, to explore its meaning in our world today, and to join hands with others who share this vision. I warmly invite you to become part of this evolving story by joining the Franciscan Federation. Together, we can continue to celebrate and live out the radical relationships that define our charism. For more information on membership and upcoming events, please visit franfed.org.
Let’s journey forward together!
—Julianne E. Wallace, DMin
Executive Director, Franciscan Federation
