The Secular Franciscan Order, formerly known as the Third Order of St. Francis, is an official order within the Catholic Church, established by St. Francis of Assisi early in the 13th century. There are approximately 14,000 members of the OFS in the United States.

Goodwin promised to follow the Rule of Life of the Secular Franciscan Order, pledging himself to live the Gospel in the manner of St. Francis by means of this Rule. St. Francis himself wrote the first Rule of Life for members of the Secular Franciscan Order. Since Vatican II, the rule has been updated but remains true to the vision of St. Francis of Assisi.

This rule calls Secular Franciscans to live out their calling to the Franciscan life in a particular way in their homes and families, at work, in their parishes, and in the world.

Goodwin’s profession was the culmination of almost three years of initial formation and study about the Franciscan way of life. The fraternity’s minister, Rosanne Roy, OFS, in the name of the church and the Secular Franciscan Order received his profession into St. Elizabeth of Hungary Secular Franciscan Fraternity. Goodwin joins the approximately 45 active professed members of the fraternity located in Quincy and established there by the Franciscan friars 153 years ago.

Members of the Secular Franciscan Order live their everyday lives in the world as single or married laypersons. The Order is also open to diocesan clergy. For more information or to explore a possible vocation to the OFS, contact formation director, Thérèse Ream, OFS, at .