Institute for
Contemporary Franciscan Life
The Institute for Contemporary Franciscan Life (ICFL), established at Saint Francis University in 1991, facilitates independent adult learning through correspondence study and distance learning. Designed for members of the Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) in response to their educational, spiritual, and ongoing formation needs, the Institute originated to help Secular Franciscans learn more about their unique identity in the contemporary world.
These self-paced, non-credit courses are open to anyone interested in learning more about Catholic Franciscan values and their influence on contemporary society. One may enroll at any time, and a full year is given to complete a course. Courses earn "Institute Units," (IUs) toward a post-baccalaureate Certificate in Contemporary Franciscan Life, which requires the completion of 15 IUs.
It is not necessary to have a baccalaureate degree in order to enroll in classes, and completing the Certificate in Contemporary Franciscan is optional. For each course completed successfully, the ICFL will award a Completion Certificate to document your studies.
Saint Francis University, in collaboration with the National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order in the United States, developed this program as a convenient way to learn more about the richness of the Franciscan heritage. Like the early tertiaries who could not abandon their secular obligations, the ICFL offers a way to follow St. Francis in spirit and ministry, without having to neglect important responsibilities to family and work.
Limited scholarships are available to qualifying adult learners.
To access a brochure and printable registration form, click here.
Contact Information:
INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY FRANCISCAN LIFE
Saint Francis University
P.O. Box 600
Loretto, PA 15940-0600
Phone: (814) 472-3219
FAX Number: (814) 472-3299
E-mail:ICFL@francis.edu