The Society of Saint Francis Australian Custody is a religious nonprofit organization within the Anglican Franciscan tradition operating in Australia. It is registered under ABN 62724267031RR0001 and is part of the wider international Society of Saint Francis, an Anglican religious community with roots dating back to the early twentieth century and inspired by the original Franciscan movement founded by St. Francis of Assisi in the thirteenth century[2][4].

Overview

The Society of Saint Francis maintains the charism and rule of St. Francis, emphasizing prayer, community life, and service. Members commit to vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, living simply and praying regularly—five times daily according to their tradition[2]. Their work focuses on education and the relief of poverty, caring especially for vulnerable populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, various age groups from children to older adults[1].

Historical Context

Founded on the principles taught by St. Francis of Assisi who received Papal approval in 1209, the Franciscan Orders emphasize humility, poverty, and service to the marginalized. Since the death of St. Francis, the Franciscan movement has evolved into multiple branches, with the Anglican expression established in the early 1900s[4][5].

In Australia, the Society has played a significant role in the spiritual and social landscape by ministering in both urban and rural parishes, supporting chaplaincies such as the Secular Franciscan Order, Militia Immaculata, and the Legion of Mary. They also engage in educational and retreat ministries and collaborate with charitable organizations such as St. Vincent de Paul Society and Caritas Australia to reach out to the poor[5].

Structure and Membership

The Society of Saint Francis is divided into three Orders:

• First Order: Composed of brothers (Society of St Francis - SSF) and sisters (Community of St Francis - CSF) who live in community and undertake active ministries.
• Second Order: Sisters (Community of St Clare - OSC) devoted primarily to prayer and contemplation.
• Third Order: Lay men and women who live out Franciscan spirituality in the world, following individualized Rules of Life without communal living[4].

The Australian Custody forms part of the First Order with brothers active in ministry and community life across the country.

Mission and Ministries

The Society’s mission centers on living the Gospel through the Franciscan way of life marked by daily prayer, scriptural study, and service. Their ministries aim to support spiritual growth, education, and social welfare, especially among disadvantaged groups. Their newest initiative includes the foundation of the 'Shrine of the Holy Innocents' to promote the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death[5].

Community Impact

By integrating spiritual discipline with active outreach, the Society of Saint Francis in Australia maintains a vital presence in both church life and the broader community. Their focus on prayer, charity, and solidarity with the poor reflects the Franciscan ideal of imitating Christ’s humility and love for all people[2][5].

This article reflects publicly available information about the Society of Saint Francis Australian Custody, highlighting its religious heritage, organizational structure, and community contributions within Australia’s Anglican context.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/e065b26d-3aaf-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60 [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/e065b26d-3aaf-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60/documents/ede3b419-1200-ee11-8f6d-002248933d22 [3] https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-profiles.society_of_st_francis_australian_custody.8a16d1a55cb0e323cd697d64cb579c7e.html [4] https://www.anglicanfranciscans.org [5] https://www.franciscanfriarsaustralia.org/about