THE COMMUNITY OF ST. FRANCIS, CHICAGO
of the
ECUMENICAL CATHOLIC COMMUNION

THE RULE FOR THIS COMMUNITY

The Holy Eucharist: Since we see the Eucharist as the heart of our prayer, our personal rule would call us to frequent participation in this Sacrament.

Penitence: Regular examination of our obedience to Christ is necessary. To be reconcilers we must first be deeply reconciled to God. We practice daily self-examination and regular use of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Personal Prayer: We set aside a definite time for prayer each day to spend time with God, to pray for others, to meditate and to express our thankfulness. Prayer is the root from which our lives and ministries grow and are nourished.

Self-Denial: This is the discipline of saying "No" to oneself by putting God first. We are often aware of the places in our lives where additional self- discipline is needed, but our Spiritual Directors should be asked to help in this area. We also focus on eliminating the ways we may manipulate others to our own ends.

Retreat: Silent retreats and quiet days provide an opportunity to rest and grow physically, mentally and spiritually. At least once a year, we participate in organized or private retreats.

Study: We all need to learn more about God and His will for us. Study of the Scriptures and of Franciscan spirituality is important to our Christian growth.

Simplicity of Living: Simplicity calls us to examine our giving of self as well as the material things over which we have control. Our cluttered lives, our preoccupations with "belonging", can interfere in our relationships with God and our brothers and sisters. Following the path of St. Francis, St. Clare,and their companions over the centuries, are called to a life of simplicity, eliminating those aspects of ourselves and our lives which prevent our full expression of God's love.

Work: Service has always been an important part of the Franciscan vocation. Daily work is one way in which we serve God and others; we are often also called to serve God and our brothers and sisters in individual ministries, ranging from prayer to social activism.

Obedience We say the Daily Office, we support each other by prayer, attendance at community meetings and a pledge of financial support to the community. We practice mutual accountability for keeping of our Rule. We have Spiritual Directors whom we see a minimum of twice a year.

THE THREE AIMS OF THIS COMMUNITY

To make our Lord known and loved everywhere: By word and example, we witness to Christ in their daily lives. By prayer and sacrifice, we help forward God's work wherever He has called us.

To spread the spirit of fellowship: By working happily with people of different race, color, creed, education and opportunity, we seek to break down the divisions in the world. We try to live in the spirit of St. Francis' prayer: "Lord, make me an instrument of your peace."

To live simply: Acknowledging that everything belongs to God, we seek to use His gifts wisely and to be good stewards of this fragile earth, never destroying or wasting what God has made. We provide the things necessary for ourselves and our families without demanding luxuries. We seek never to forget the needs of others.