Franciscans of the Eucharist
Eric Michel Ministries International Charter
DIVIN MERCY
Welcome to the Secular Franciscan Order in Canada!
We’re a lively and diverse community inspired by the teachings of the Gospel and the examples set by Saints Francis and Clare. It doesn’t matter who you are male or female, single, married, or part of a couple, clergy or lay, we invite everyone to join us. The only thing we ask is that you meet the minimum age requirement to become a member and be consecrated to Holy Mary, wearing the miraculous medal and Carmelite scapular and the Franciscan Tau.
What sets us apart is our choice to live in the everyday world rather than retreating from it like traditional religious orders. We believe that the spirit of St. Francis is best experienced in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each month, we gather in local groups, called confraternities, where we pray, study, and worship together. These meetings are all about encouraging one another and figuring out how to embrace the unique spirit of St. Francis in our daily lives. Like Francis, we’re all about actively participating in Christ’s mission and sharing the good news of salvation with everyone around us.
The Secular Franciscan Order, or Ordo Franciscanus Sæcularis (OFS), is officially recognized within the Catholic Church. It was founded by St. Francis of Assisi back in 1221, aimed at lay people who wanted to follow his way of life without leaving the world behind.
Our Ministries got off to a start on July 14, 2014, and in 2020, the Canadian Franciscan Province embraced a new identity to better reflect our community. With the OFE charter established on April 6, 2022, we’re buzzing with anticipation for January 14, 2025, when we plan to amend our constitution and transition into what we’re calling the New Life Catholic Ministry.
So, whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, a supportive community, or just a way to deepen your faith, we invite you to join us on this journey. Together, we can live out our calling, inspired by the life and teachings of St. Francis!
The phrase “To Jesus Through Mary” rose to prominence through St. Louis de Montfort’s book True Devotion to Mary. He used these words to explain that devotion to Mary is the best way to grow closer to Jesus, because Mary herself will lead us to her Son if we ask her to do so and this is why we consacred our life to Mary.
We promote the DIVIN MERCI and pray at the Cenacle with Jesus, Holy Mary, Francis and Clare under the guidance of Saint Faustina.
Our main tools to reach people is our Chaplaincy. In serving our mission, we strive to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of our community. Our activities are built on a foundation of respecting different faith communities and cultures while providing compassionate, spiritual care.
Together we can address spiritual needs that impact patient healing and wholeness. Brother Eric Michel is a volunteer member of the National Association of Catholic Chaplains, also member of the International Federation of Christian Chaplains and an associate member of the Canadian Practical Chaplain Association.
