Introduction to the community
The Third Order of the Society of Saint Francis consists of men and women, ordained and lay, single or in committed relationships, who believe that God is calling them to live out their Franciscan vocation in the world, living in their own homes and following ordinary professions. Like the First Order Friars and Sisters and Second Order Nuns, The Third Order members, (called Tertiaries) encourage one another in living and witnessing to Christ through a Rule of Life that includes prayer, study and work. The Third Order is worldwide, with a Minister General, and five Ministers Provincial to cover their respective Provinces.
Contact details
Address: 797 Purangi Road, Cooks Beach, 3591 New Zealand
Community information
Bishop Protector for Aotearoa region, New Zealand: The Right Reverend Steven Bemfield, Bishop of Dunedin
Bishop Protector for Melanesia: The Right Reverend Rickson, Maomaoru, Makira Province
Publications
Booklets by Chris Barfoot
- Beginnings of the Third Order in New Zealand 1956-74
- Peace and Joy, Part 2 of the History of the Third Order, Society of St Francis in New Zealand
Leadership
Minister Provincial: Blair Matheson TSSF
Membership
Professed:
New Zealand 93
Melanesia 81
Novices:
New Zealand 6
Melanesia 31
