About Us

Order of Friars Minor Conventual

The Novitiate

In 1209, St Francis of Assisi received formal approval from Pope Innocent III for his new way of life. St. Francis wanted his followers to imitate the humility of Christ and to minister to the least in society.

In 1517, the Franciscan Order was divided into autonomous branches, each professing a valid perspective of their observance of his Rule. The “Conventual” followers of St. Francis chose to minister in the heart of the cities rather than in more remote hermitages. Franciscan Conventuals emphasize fidelity to the Catholic church, the Holy Father, devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph and importance of fostering strong fraternal communities.

In the USA, the order is divided into 5 provinces based broadly on geographical region. The Immaculate Conception and Saint Anthony of Padua provinces are located along the East Coast. Saint Bonaventure Province is based in the Midwest, Our Lady Of Consolation Province operates in both the Midwest and Southwest. Finally, Saint Joseph of Cupertino Province is based in California. Great Britain & Ireland is currently a Provincial Delegation of Saint Anthony of Padua Province. All the provinces aforementioned, along with the friars in Australia, send their novices to the interprovincial novitiate in Mishawaka, IN. 

To learn more about the locations and ministries of the provinces, click on the links.  For a list of vocation directors click here.