A Community of Faith
The Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn are a religious community of men who have dedicated their lives to following Christ in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi. United by our vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, we live in fraternity and serve God's people through education, parish ministry, and works of mercy.
Our brothers come from diverse backgrounds, but share a common calling to live the Gospel and make Christ's love visible in the world. Through prayer, community life, and active ministry, we witness to the transformative power of faith.
Meet Our Brothers
Brother Michael, F.S.C.
Serving as Provincial Minister since 2020, Brother Michael guides our community with wisdom and compassion, leading us in our mission of faith and service.
Brother Thomas, F.S.C.
With 25 years in education, Brother Thomas brings passion and dedication to forming young minds in faith and academic excellence.
Brother Joseph, F.S.C.
Serving the faithful at St. Anthony Parish, Brother Joseph provides pastoral care and spiritual guidance to our community.
Brother Francis, F.S.C.
Guiding new members through their journey of discernment and formation, Brother Francis helps men discover their calling to Franciscan life.
Brother Patrick, F.S.C.
Providing spiritual care to patients and families in times of need, Brother Patrick brings comfort and hope through Christ's healing presence.
Brother Anthony, F.S.C.
Leading our outreach to the poor and marginalized, Brother Anthony coordinates programs that serve hundreds of families each year.
Formation Journey
Discernment
A period of prayer and reflection to discern God's call to religious life. Men explore whether the Franciscan Brothers community is where God is calling them.
Postulancy
A 6-12 month period of introduction to community life, prayer, and ministry. Postulants live with the brothers and begin to understand the Franciscan way of life.
Novitiate
A canonical year of intensive formation in prayer, community life, and Franciscan spirituality. Novices deepen their relationship with God and prepare for first vows.
Temporary Vows
Brothers make temporary vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience for 3-6 years, continuing their formation while engaging in active ministry.
Perpetual Vows
After years of formation and discernment, brothers make lifelong commitments to live the Gospel through poverty, chastity, and obedience in the Franciscan tradition.
Life in Community
Our brothers live together in community, sharing prayer, meals, and ministry. This fraternal life is central to our identity and mission. We support one another in our spiritual journey and find strength in our shared commitment to Christ.
Each day begins with communal prayer and celebration of the Eucharist. We gather for meals, recreation, and ongoing formation. Through this life together, we witness to the power of Christian fraternity and mutual support.
Our communities are places of hospitality, where brothers and guests alike experience the warmth of Franciscan welcome. We believe that life lived in common is a sign of God's love for all people.
Our Sacred Vows
Poverty
We embrace voluntary poverty, sharing our goods in common and living simply. This vow frees us to serve the poor and detach from material possessions that can hinder our relationship with God.
Chastity
We dedicate our hearts entirely to God and His people, loving with the freedom and generosity of Christ. Our chastity enables us to love all people with undivided hearts and authentic compassion.
Obedience
We listen to God's will through our superiors and the needs of the Church, surrendering our desires to serve His purposes. This vow teaches us humility and trust in God's plan for our lives.
Our Leadership
Brother Michael, F.S.C.
Leads the province with vision and pastoral care, guiding our community in living the Franciscan charism.
Brother Thomas, F.S.C.
Assists the Provincial Minister and provides leadership in formation and community life.
Brother Joseph, F.S.C.
Manages the temporal goods of the province with stewardship and accountability.
Discern Your Calling
Do you feel God calling you to religious life? We welcome men who are discerning a vocation to the Franciscan Brothers. Come and see how God might be calling you to serve in our community.
Learn About Vocations