Who are the Secular Franciscans? 800 years ago in Assisi, Italy, a man named Francis was called by Christ to go and “Rebuild My Church.” The times were difficult; war and greed were rampant. Francis chose the Life of Christ (Gospels) as his guide and established the Order of Friars. Soon, lay people, single and married, began to follow his values of poverty, joy, simplicity, gratitude and love of all God’s creation. Today, lay people continue to do so as Secular Franciscans. If you would like to learn more about Secular Franciscans, The Companions of Francis and Clare Fraternity cordially invites you to a gathering of their fraternity on September 24 or November 19 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Salem from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Come and see if this way of life might be for you. If interested, please email Georgene Bramlage with a reply or questions at [email protected] or just come—you are welcome.