Throughout eight hundred years countless women and men have been attracted to follow the way of life inspired by Francis of Assisi, the gentle medieval saint whose message created a wave of awareness and renewal in the thirteenth century in Europe.

Mother Magdalen Damen, inspired by Francis, carried his charism of simplicity and service into the world of her day. Following Christ and Francis, she lived in a spirit of simplicity, penance and love. Her trust in God led her to a life of prayer and service.

Nurturing the charism of St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Magdalen, we, the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, cordially welcome you to join us as an Associate responding:

- like Francis, who calls us to reverence creation;
- like Mother Magdalen, who calls us to perserverance in good and to an unfailing trust that "God will provide."

It is a non-vowed relationship, a holy agreement between an individual and the Sisters of St. Francis.

Through this holy agreement, the Associates are invited:

• to live the Gospel more fully as a follower of Francis, Clare and Magdalen;
• to deepen relationship with God while sharing a spiritual journey with other Franciscans;
• to participate in a new venture, corresponding to new needs in new times.

Women and men, single and married, laity and clergy, Catholic and those of other religious traditions, who share goals, values and ideals similar to those of the Sisters of Saint Francis.

Associates are at least nineteen years of age.

They appreciate both individual dignity and community solidarity.

They share concerns and reverence for all of creation.

They desire to grow in a way consistent with the Gospel and the Franciscan charism.

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