The Third Order (Anglican) Society of Saint Francis (TSSF)

Franciscan Brothers were in residence at Vaughan Park from 1997 to 2001. Their continued presence is to be found in the values which Vaughan Park strives to reflect and share. A bronze statue of St. Francis was also gifted to Vaughan Park and is in the Ruatara Chapel.

Saint Francis is remembered for his message of joy, simplicity, humility, service, brother/sisterhood and peace. His following was so great that when Francis entered a town everyone turned out to greet him. Some of these people explained to him that they wanted to live a Franciscan life yet because many of them had homes and families they were not able to live a similar lifestyle. They wanted to continue to live in their own homes and earn their own living.

To help these people be included, Francis created an Order of Penitents, later to become known as the Third Order, or Tertiaries: women and men who wanted to live according to the Gospel in a sister/brotherhood of which the life and witness of Saint Francis was the inspiration and example.

Throughout the world today, people in the Third Order (Anglican) Society of Saint Francis (TSSF) aim to live simple, prayerful lives according to a personal Rule, walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, sharing love and peace with others.

Members of the TSSF visit the Ruatara Chapel at Vaughan Park for a day, the first Monday of the month, when they are available to guests for prayer and conversation.

We are delighted that in 2018, they also intend to offer one or two Quiet Days throughout Christian Year.

News of these Quiet Days and how to reserve your place, will be regularly published on our website and FaceBook page.

Image and some words adapted from http://www.franciscanthirdorder.godzone.net.nz/