Constitutions of the Franciscan Missionaries of Divine
Compassion
Preamble
Until such a time as the community reaches full maturity, the founding sister will have
full responsibility for governing it and training the postulants, novices and temporarily
professed sisters to take a full share in the life of the community at the time they are
elected and professed to lifelong vows. The founding sister will serve as Mother Minister
at least until such a time as the community has reached the maturity necessary to elect
another person in accordance with these constitutions and as long as the Chapter feels this
to be prudent, even if this means serving more terms of office than ordinarily permitted
by these constitutions.
Nature and Purpose
If you seek perfection, go, sell your possessions, and give to the poor. You will then have treasure in
heaven. Afterward, come back and follow me. –Matthew 19:21
1. With all creation the Franciscan Missionaries of Divine Compassion
praise and glorify God.
As Franciscan women consecrated to a loving Father
and dedicated to spreading His kingdom,
the sisters, led by the Spirit,
and moved by a burning desire to quench the infinite thirst
of Jesus on the Cross for love of souls,
covenant themselves to live and extend
the gospel message of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Adoring the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Eucharist
and serving Him in the people,
the sisters strive to reflect to all they meet
the Divine Compassion of Christ for all people
in a spirit of total surrender, loving trust and cheerfulness.
2. They hold prayer as their primary faith value.
From their prayer flows their life in community,
a penitential life lived in obedience,
poverty and
consecrated celibacy.
With freedom that attends the Franciscan tradition,
the members of the congregation share
in the apostolic mission of the community,
and of the Church
by ministering to God’s people
3. The sisters make consistent efforts
to utilize meaningful ways
of communicating the gospel message
to spread the Father’s kingdom.
In the spirit of joyful simplicity
and Franciscan hospitality,
they strive to reflect to all they meet
the mystery of the presence of Christ
among all people throughout His kingdom.
Vows
Remember that you have been called to live in freedom—but not a freedom that gives free
reign to the flesh. Out of love, place yourselves at one another’s service. –Galatians 5:13
The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. – II
Corinthians 3:17
4. A Franciscan sister answers a divine call
to live for God by continuing the spirit of Francis
in God’s kingdom.
She gives her life to God
by her profession of the evangelical counsels
in an act of special consecration by vows,
an act deeply rooted in her baptismal consecration.
Throughout her life she responds to Christ
in His revelation of Himself.
As her awareness of his presence grows,
her expressions of joyful selfgiving deepen
and give witness to her faith, hope and love
in the spreading of God’s kingdom.
The moment of death is the consummation
of the sister’s total act of consecration.
4.1
4.2
To begin her commitment to consecrated life,
the sister makes public vows of obedience, poverty
and consecrated celibacy.
The sisters use the following formula for profession by vows: For the honor and
glory of God and moved by a burning desire to quench the infinite thirst of Jesus
on the Cross for love of souls by consecrating myself more fully to God, that I
may follow Jesus more closely in my whole life in a spirit of loving trust, total
surrender and cheerfulness, here and now (in the presence of my sisters) and into
your hands, (Mother N or Bishop N), I vow for life (or for three years) chastity,
poverty and obedience according to the Rule and Constitutions of the Franciscan
Missionaries of Divine Compassion. (I give myself with my whole heart to this
religious family) so that by the grace of the Holy Spirit and the help of the
Immaculate Heart of Mary, Cause of our Joy, I may be led to the perfect love of
God and neighbor and make the Church fully present in the world today.
5. By her life of obedience, the sister
makes a total offering of her will to God.
She surrenders her natural right to independent choice
of action which frees her to embrace the Father’s
loving will.
The mission of the obedient Christ
becomes her own.
She responds freely in faith to the Holy Spirit
and accepts personal responsibility
to promote her own growth,
the growth of community life and
the growth of the awareness of God in all.
She helps others to accept
personal responsibility.
In dialog with her sisters and all creation,
she strives to hear and obey the Lord’s voice.
Through cooperative action she helps form plans
implemented through subsidiarity and
shares more intensely in the visible action
of the Church.
She strives to be cheerful,
prompt, simple and constant
in her service of the Lord.
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
By the vow of obedience, the sister freely commits herself to obey her lawful
superiors according to these Constitutions.
In exceptional circumstances, the superior general may give an express command
in virtue of the vow of obedience.
The sister freely commits herself to live according to the Rule and the
Constitutions as approved by the general chapter.
The sister practices the vow of obedience in accord with the principles of
cooperative action and subsidiarity and makes herself aware of her responsibility
and accountability to God, to the ecclesiastical and religious authority, to the
Church, and to the community.
The sister responds to the needs of the Church in a ministry approved by the
superior general. The final decision on assignments is made by the superior
general in conformity with the Constitutions.
6. Through her life of poverty, the sister
acknowledges her dependence on the Father
and shares in the poverty of Christ.
She surrenders her natural right to the independent
use and disposition of material goods which
frees her to find her security in the loving care of the Father.
Simplicity, unpretentiousness and
contentment characterize her way of life.
She opens herself to care, advice, admonitions and
help from others.
She gives all she is: her time, her attentiveness,
her skill, her possessions, herself—
toward their enrichment.
Dependent upon the community,
she uses its common resources
according to the decisions taken by the superior
in consultation with the community.
Her inner attitude of poverty
finds external expression in her responsible,
prudent and wise use of material goods
as a sign bearing witness to the people of God.
Through her poverty she empties herself
so that Christ, who works in those
who make themselves poor
for the sake of the kingdom, may work in her.
6.1 By her vow of poverty each sister foregoes the independent use and disposal of
any goods having monetary value.
6.2 The sister retains ownership of property which she holds at the time of her
profession, or which she may subsequently acquire by personal title of inheritance
from her family (patrimony).
6.3 Before temporary profession the sister designates the administrator of the property
she possesses and freely determines who will be the beneficiary of the income
accruing from it.
6.4 If a sister wishes to change her cession of administration or the distribution of
income from her property, she may do so with the consent of the superior general.
If a sister acquires new property, she freely decides anew about the administration
of it and the income from it.
6.5 If a sister leaves the congregation or is dismissed, she is reinstated in all property
rights.
6.6 The superior general may receive for the congregation gifts with obligations
attached only after seeking the advice of her council.
6.7 Evangelical poverty challenges the sister to love the poor, share with them and
uphold their rights.
6.8 The sister’s spirit of poverty directs her personal use of money and other goods.
6.9
6.10
6.11
6.12
6.13
Any material or financial remuneration the sister receives by earning, gift,
pension, subsidy, or insurance belongs to the community.
Before final profession, each sister makes a last will and testament valid in civil
court, freely determining the final disposition of her property.
If a sister wishes to change her last will and testament, she may do so with the
consent of the superior general.
So as to be more in conformity to the poverty of Christ, a sister may wish to
renounce her patrimony in whole or in part. She may do so, with the permission
of the superior general, at the earliest, ten years after final profession. The
renunciation must be made in a form valid in civil court.
In the unlikely event of the dissolution of this entity, assets will be distributed in
accordance with the state laws governing non-profit religious organizations.
7. By her life of consecrated celibacy, the sister
offers to God an undivided, free heart.
She surrenders the expression of her natural desire for
the intimacy of conjugal love which frees her to
deepen her relationship with the Lord.
She fosters and preserves consecrated celibacy
by her love of God, expressed and deepened
in sacramental living and prayer.
God’s love in her, the source of this dedication,
overflows into a loving concern for others.
Just as the sister’s union with Christ determines
the depth and the power of this love, so, too,
her human friendships enrich her love of God.
By promoting an atmosphere
in which love can develop,
the sister strengthens community and
thus supports others in the practice of the vow.
In living this celibate life,
she reminds all Christians
of His kingdom already come
and of its fulfillment in eternity.
7.1
7.2
By the vow of consecrated celibacy, the sister undertakes to live her Christian
chastity by a new obligation, that of the vow of religion, choosing not to marry for
the sake of the kingdom. She strives for a mature sharing and concern for the
work of the Church by relating to many persons rather than to a particular family
and culture.
The sister enriches her life of consecrated celibacy through a deep personal love
of God, devotion to Mary, a love for her sisters, and a giving of herself in generous
service for all God’s people.
Prayer
At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petitions of every sort. Pray
constantly and attentively for all in the holy company. –Ephesians 6:18
8. The prayer of the sister like that of
Blessed Francis is characterized
by a spirit of joy that is full of hope
and firmly grounded in the resurrection;
by humility that recognizes poverty of spirit
and dependence on the Father;
by holiness that is a manifestation
of the presence of the Holy Spirit;
by perseverance that gives constancy
in discouragement and anxiety.
8.1
8.2
The sisters, during times of daily private prayer, practice traditional Franciscan
and community devotions devotions honoring the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacred
Passion, the Sacred Heart, Our Lady, St. Francis and St. Clare.
The sister seeks to grow in holiness and a life of penance through personal self
denial.
9. Jesus Christ calls the sister to worship
in love and in truth.
He makes it possible by sending the Spirit
to live within her so that with Christ she can say, “Our Father.”
9.1
9.2
Times and places of silence are designated in each convent in order to create an
atmosphere conducive to prayer.
In her effort to nurture the spirit of prayer, the sister takes time for daily meditative
prayer and a yearly retreat.
10. In prayer each sister fosters
a listening attitude through which she develops an awareness
of her own spiritual needs.
This awareness reaches out to encompass
the needs of her sisters in community
and the needs of the people she serves.
With the deepening of her prayer life,
the sister experiences the serenity
of abandonment to the Father’s loving care.
As personal prayer becomes more Christ-centered,
the sister grows in understanding and living
gospel values.
Following the example of St. Francis,
the sister reads, studies, ponders and prays the Sacred Scriptures.
10.1
Each sister enriches her religious life by meditative reading of Sacred
Scripture and the use of other spiritual resources.
10.2
In order to foster continuing conversion of heart and union in community,
each sister frequently avails herself of the sacrament of reconciliation.
10.3
The sisters share faith with one another by coming together regularly for times
of recollection and prayer.
11. Liturgical prayer enables the sister
to share with Christ His redeeming mission.
Like St. Francis,
the sisters cherish the Eucharist as a source of Christian life
and the embodiment of Christian community.
In the liturgy the sisters join with the Church
to praise God as the center of existence
and to thank the Father
for the gift of His Son, Jesus.
As the paschal mystery of Christ’s birth, life,
death and resurrection unfolds
at each Eucharistic celebration,
the sisters experience the great love of the Father
in sending His Son as Lord of all people.
In thanksgiving for the presence of Jesus in history,
the sisters celebrate the reality
of love, peace, healing and oneness
to which the Eucharist calls them.
11.1 The sisters participate in the Eucharist daily to unite with the Church in
proclaiming the Lord. The superiors must take great care that every sister has the
opportunity to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord, remembering that it is in
the Eucharist that the sisters find the courage, joy, and strength that enables their
mixed life.
11.2 By daily participation in morning and evening prayer, a sister becomes part of the
continuous prayer of Christ in the Church.
11.3 At the time of a sister’s death and subsequent anniversaries, the sisters, in charity,
remember her in prayers and works of mercy.
11.4 The community prays for deceased members of the families, friends and
benefactors of the sisters.
Community
They went to the temple area together everyday, while in their homes they broke bread.
With exultant and sincere hearts they took their meals in common, praising God and
winning the approval of all the people. – Acts of the Apostles 2:46-47
12. Franciscan sisters in community share the task of each Christian generation to reach
the goal of union set by Christ.
As a Christian community
modelled on the first Christian community,
our first great responsibility is to be a community,
revealing first to one another something of God’s own love,
concern, and tenderness.
21.1 The sisters share the mystery of their call, both to Christianity and to the
Franciscan life, through determining common goals, helpful practices of communal
living, and a common vision of the future.
13. The fashioning of a responsive, obedient community
requires a continuous attempt to establish a climate
in which each sister is loved and honored for who she is;
and each loves and honors every sister
for her identity, with her gifts and limitations.
Factors that are a creative expression of
Franciscan community life
are found in an attitude of non-judgment,
reconciliation and flexibility;
a trusting and responsive awareness of others’ needs;
and a continuing commitment to strive for union
with Christ,
together with defining one’s own charism and role
within one’s religious congregation.
13.1 Each sister lives with a local community of her sisters in a house of the
congregation.
13.2 A sister may be given permission by the superior general to live outside a house of
the congregation for serious reasons.
13.3 The sisters share each others’ joys and sorrows and support one another by prayer
and their presence as an expression of love.
13.4 Building community is the general concern of all the sisters. Recognizing their
individual and communal responsibility for the growth of each other, the sisters
strive to be supportive of one another.
14. Community presumes that the unique, free,
responsible individuals in it are aware of
what they share in living our a Franciscan vowed life and prayer life.
14.1 The religious dress worn by the sister as a sign of her consecration through the
profession of the evangelical counsels, is simple, poor, and in keeping with her
state in life.
14.2 The members of the community will be publicly identified by their wearing of the
religious habit approved by Chapter and the ring received at the time of their final
profession.
15. In community, the essence of shared
responsibility is communion.
Co-responsibility comes from what we are and who
we are together in Christ.
16. Growth in community is recognized by a growth
in understanding that one’s life is relational,
not only between oneself and others, but also
between oneself and all things and events,
so that the good of all is affirmed.
Ministry
There are different ministries but the same Lord; there are different works but the same
God who accomplishes all of them in everyone. To each person the manifestation of the
Spirit is given for the common good. –I Corinthians 12: 5-7
17. In their ministries
the sisters exercise a variety of gifts,
and the same Spirit gives them.
The use of these gifts finds meaning
in the person of Christ,
who came to minister in the name of the Father.
The Franciscan sister endeavors to be
an instrument of peace and reconciliation
as she uses her gifts to respond
to the needs of others
in whatever capacity her service is required.
17.1 Following the spirit and inspiration of St. Francis and the founders of the
Congregation, the sisters respond to the human and spiritual needs of the people of
God through prayer, evangelization, education, health care, pastoral service and
related works. They are especially aware of the spiritually deprived, the
economically poor, the educationally limited, the physically ill, the
mentally/physically handicapped and the socially disadvantaged minority groups.
17.2 In the Franciscan call to ministry, the sister uses her gifts in a spirit of
servanthood.
18. Through her ministry,
the sister expresses her willingness
to love and serve the whole human family.
In accepting the responsibility
her dedication demands,
the sister strives to fill what is wanting
in the lives of others.
18.1 The sister, like St. Francis, sees Christ in everyone and conducts herself in such a
manner that those to whom she ministers and with whom she works see Christ in
her.
18.2 The superior general, endeavoring to recognize and respond to those needs which
the Church, the community and the individual sister’s inspiration direct, sends
forth the sister to her particular ministry.
18.3 Sisters who through age or illness can no longer participate in the active works of
the community share in the good works of the community in a significant way
through prayer and suffering and obtain God’s blessing for many.
19. She endeavors to mature in all phases
of human growth:
spiritual,
emotional,
professional.
She allows God to reveal Himself to others
through her strengths and weaknesses.
By sharing her faith, knowledge and skills,
the sister strives to exert a positive influence
among the people of God.
19.1 Conscious of the cultural demands of the times, the sister endeavors to be aware
of the contemporary social and political conditions, exerting a positive influence,
whenever possible, to bring about the necessary change for growth.
19.2 In a spirit of loving concern, each sister through her support and prayer
encourages her sisters in the various ministries.
20. As a member of a covenanted group,
each sister shares with other people
the love the sisters have for one another.
In her ministry
she endeavors to grow in personal sanctity,
keeping alive the spirit of prayer,
as well as to contribute
to the corporate sanctity of the community
and of the world at large.
Through her loving generous service
her ministry gives glory to God
as it becomes fruitful for the kingdom.
Formation
It was not you who chose me; it was I who chose you to go forth and bear fruit. Your
fruit must endure, so that all you ask the Father in my name he will give you. The
command I give you is this, that you love one another. –John 15: 16-17
21. Each Christian enters a covenant
with God at baptism
and shares in the responsibility
of making Christ present to the world.
This covenant grows
in the depth of faith response
as the person grows and develops
throughout life.
21.1 Each member of the community assumes an active and responsible role in the
privilege of fostering vocations. The sister best fulfills this role by valuing her
personal call and response to God.
22. The catholic woman who feels called
to be a Franciscan Missionary of Divine Compassion
is assisted in the testing
of the authenticity of that call
and in her growth as a Christian
during a time of initial formation.
With guidance she discovers
how she can use
her gifts of nature and grace
most effectively within the community charism
to bring Christ to the world
in a manner suited to the needs of the times.
Initial Formation
22.1 The initial formation period, which extends from the pre-novitiate stage to final
profession, introduces an applicant to life in the Congregation of the Franciscan
Missionaries of Divine Compassion.
22.2 Formation personnel are perpetually professed sisters who have sufficient
experience in religious life and appropriate human and spiritual qualities. These
are appointed by the superior general with the consent of her council.
22.3 A woman applying for entrance into our religious congregation must be free from
canonical impediments and give evidence of proper motives, adequate physical
health, intellectual capability, emotional stability and necessary maturity for
religious life. She presents certificates of baptism and confirmation.
22.4 After consultation with her council and the formation personnel, the superior
general admits the applicant into the pre-novitiate period, the postulancy. Before
being admitted to the postulancy, the candidate must sign a legal statement that she
is not entitled to any compensation for services rendered to the community.
Pre-Novitiate
22.5 The purpose of the pre-novitiate is to provide the woman with further opportunities
to grow in Christian virtue, in womanliness, in an understanding of Franciscan
spirituality and community life, in an appreciation of the traditions of the
congregation and to assist her to understand the catholic faith as described in the
Credenda of the Franciscan Order of the Divine Compassion.
22.6 Ordinarily the pre-novitiate includes the time of postulancy which may extend
from six months to two years. The postulant program emphasizes the cultivation of
a healthy self-image and of mature interpersonal relationships, as well as the study
of scripture, the catholic faith, and community history and charism. Through
individual direction, the postulant’s personal awareness of God’s activity in her life
and her ability to respond freely to that activity is continuously heightened, thus
enabling her to further discern the authenticity of her call to our particular way of
life.
22.7 A postulant may leave the congregation at any time, or she may be asked to leave
by the superior general.
22.8 The postulant director, who is responsible to the superior general, assists the
postulant to grow in spiritual and community life.
22.9 Near the completion of the postulancy, the superior general and her council meet
with the postulant to determine her readiness to be accepted into the novitiate.
22.10 The superior general, after consultation with her council and formation personnel,
may admit the postulant to the novitiate.
22.11 Before entering the novitiate, the postulant makes a retreat of at least five
consecutive days, signs the Credenda of the Franciscan Order of the Divine
Compassion, and again signs a legal document stating that she is not eligible for
any compensation for services rendered should she leave the community.
Novitiate
22.12 The time of novitiate gives the novice the opportunity to discern further her
vocation and to prepare for her consecration as a religious.
22.13 The time of the novitiate which extends over a period of two years, begins when
the candidate is received as a novice in a simple ceremony. The novice spends at
least twelve months in a canonical novitiate in the novitiate house. During this
time she is initiated into the essential and primary requirements of the religious life.
The novitiate program stresses prayer, the study of scripture and the spirituality
of the congregation. During the other twelve months, emphasis is placed on the
integration of contemplation and ministry.
22.14 The superior general may prolong the period of novitiate, but not beyond six
months.
22.15 If a novice has been absent from the canonical novitiate continually or with
interruption for a total of more than three months, the novitiate is invalid. An
absence of more than fifteen days must be made up.
22.16 The superior general, with the consent of chapter, approves the establishment,
the transfer or the closing of a novitiate house.
22.17 Before profession a novice makes a retreat of at least eight full days.
22.18 The novice director, under the direction of the superior general, assumes full
responsibility for the novitiate program and the guidance of the novices.
22.19 The novice director shall be at least thirty years of age and perpetually professed.
22.20 The novice may leave the congregation at any time, or she may be asked to leave
by the superior general after consultation with her council and the novice director.
22.21 Upon completion of the time of her novitiate, a novice communicates in writing to
the superior general her desire to be admitted to temporary profession in the
congregation by the vows of obedience, poverty and consecrated celibacy.
22.22 The superior general, with the consent of chapter and in consultation with the
novice director, admits a sister to temporary profession.
Post-Novitiate
22.23 Temporary profession is made by vow for a period of not less than three years and
no more than six years. Only if is seems opportune, may the superior general
extend the time for a further three years.
22.24 The superior general or her delegate receives the temporary profession of the
sister.
22.25 The time of temporary profession gives the sister an opportunity to continue to
her preparation for perpetual profession, while sharing in the life and
mission of the congregation.
22.27 The superior general appoints a perpetually professed sister to assist the sisters
during the time of temporary profession. The temporary professed sister follows
a program of human and spiritual growth in preparation for perpetual profession.
22.28 The superior general seeks the consent of chapter in allowing a sister to
renew her temporary profession. This renewal may be anticipated by one
month.
22.29 Particular emphasis is placed on the deepening of the sister’s prayer life as both
the basis for her vowed commitment as lived in community and as further
expressed through her participation in the community’s ministry to God’s people.
On-going direction helps the sister achieve greater integration of all aspects of
22.30
22.31
22.32
22.33
22.34
her life into a healthy, harmonious whole, making her capable of freely choosing
and being faithful to a lasting commitment.
A sister may withdraw from the congregation when the period of temporary
profession expires. She may be excluded from perpetual profession by the
superior general with the consent of her council.
Upon completion of the time of temporary profession, a sister who desires
perpetual profession communicates her request in writing to the superior general.
With the consent of her council and in consultation with the sister appointed to
assist the sisters in temporary profession, the superior general admits a sister to
perpetual vows.
A period of intensive preparation immediately precedes perpetual profession.
The superior general or her delegate receives the profession of vows of the sister.
Before making her profession of vows, each sister again signs a legal document
stating that she is entitled to no compensation for service rendered to the
community.
On-going Formation
23. The ongoing development of the sister
involves a process
that embraces both change and continuity.
Each sister is responsible for her own growth.
This growth is realized through her relationship with God and others.
23.1 The superior general has the responsibility to provide for on-going formation in
every area of the sisters’ total development.
23.2 Each sister, by profession of vows, assumes an active and responsible role in her
own religious development.
24. Throughout her lifetime
the sister continues to accept the challenge
to gospel conversion.
Her response is both individual and communal.
By means of her life experiences,
she opens herself to the guidance of the Spirit
to witness to Christ in hope and in joy.
Fulfillment
All of us, gazing on the Lord’s glory with unveiled faces, are being transformed from
glory to glory into his very image by the Lord who is Spirit. –II Corinthians 3: 18
25. Through her Franciscan vocation
the sister lives out with joyful simplicity
the gifts of conversion and abandonment.
Convinced of the Father’s provident,
loving care,
she knows that no pain or sorrow can keep her
from ultimately being united with Him.
26. At the moment of death
as Christ manifests Himself to her
and summons her with a gesture
of redeeming love,
the faithful sister knows
that she has been called to live forever
in the fullness of the Father’s presence.
Having spent a lifetime
of saying YES to God’s love,
the sister of St. Francis welcomes sister death,
bringing to completion her final obedient YES.
Government
Jesus called them together and said to them: “You know how among the Gentiles those
who seem to exercise authority over them; their great ones make their importance felt. It
cannot be like that with you. Anyone among you who aspires to greatness must serve the
rest. Whoever wants to rank first among you must serve the needs of all.” --Mark 10:
42-43
27. Government in Franciscan life means leading
the community in spreading the kingdom of God.
Our community seeks a united course of action in a
governmental structure that helps community
superiors guide each sister effectively
in responding to the mission of the congregation.
An essential virtue of every Franciscan superior
is obedience.
As the Franciscan superior listens, she affirms
that the gifts of God come to the total community
through each member, and she is the unifying agent
in the effective functioning of the community.
Responding in obedience, the sisters strive to support
and assist community superiors
in strengthening the bonds of unity within the
congregation.
The government structure enables both the common
mission and the individual freedom and
responsibility to flourish.
A balance between the realization of the common
mission and the development of the freedom of the
individual insures both unity and diversity.
General Chapter
27.1 The general chapter, when in session, is the highest authority in the community.
Chapter may make changes to the rule and this Constitution and act in all other
matters, as provided in this Constitution.
27.2 General Chapter shall have the responsibility to:
 examine the life of the congregation in the light of the gospel, the call of the
Church and the spirit of the founder
 re-examine the constitutions and the general directory in order to evaluate and
adjust previous legislation
 give the congregation new impetus to meet the demands of mission in the
changing circumstances
 promote unity in the congregation
 elect the superior general (Mother Minister)
 examine the administration of the property of the congregation by the Mother
Minister and her appointees
 consider issues of concern submitted by the members of the congregation
 discuss matters which require consultation or approval of the Bishop visitor or
ordinary and elect the Bishop Visitor
 change the constitutions or rule after having received a two-thirds vote of the
general chapter
 elect, if deemed prudent, a chaplain. The name of any elected chaplain shall
be submitted to the ordinary for licensure, if necessary. In the event that
confirmation is not received from the ordinary, the Chapter elects another
choice and presents it to the ordinary, until a choice is confirmed.
27.3 Each life professed sister of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Compassion
shall have a seat, voice and vote in Chapter. A sister under renewable vows shall
have a seat in Chapter and a voice on the invitation of the Mother. She may not
vote until after Life Profession.
27.4 If in the judgement of an attending physician, a sister is unable to understand
clearly or vote responsibly on matters coming before the Chapter due to illness or
age, she shall not be allowed to vote at that Chapter. It shall be left to the Mother
to decide whether such a sister should be notified of or attend Chapter.
27.5 General Chapter will meet once a year for the purpose of review of this rule and
constitution, general government and renewal of the institute, timely notice being
given each sister so that she may submit motions, if she so desires. The Mother,
after consulting with her Officers, may summon a Special Convent Chapter
whenever there seems to her sufficient reason for doing so.
27.6 If at any time some urgent matter should arise, it shall be lawful for one-third of
the professed sisters, or ten professed sisters, whichever is fewer, to request the
Mother to summon a Convent Chapter. It shall be her duty to attend to such a
request.
27.7 The Mother Minister has the responsibility of calling the annual General Chapter
into being and any special chapters if she determines the need. Only in the case of
a special chapter called to depose or replace a Mother Minister may the Assistant
Minister of the congregation call into being a special Chapter.
27.8 All sisters of Chapter must be informed of any such special meetings and given the
reason for their assembly at least three weeks beforehand.
27.9 The Agenda (or matters to be dealt with by the Chapter) shall be stated in the form
of motions. The name of the sister who makes the motion shall, in each case, be
stated. A professed sister may place any motion on the Agenda by giving it in
writing to the Chapter Secretary at least one week before the Chapter at which she
wishes it discussed. A copy of the Agenda or other notice shall be given by the
Mother to each member of the Chapter so that she may receive it at least three
days before each Chapter is held. No definitive vote on any matter shall be taken
without such advanced notice. Subjects not on the Agenda proper may be
discussed at the Chapter, but no vote on such matters shall be taken. The person
who makes a motion may withdraw it at any time. A majority is necessary to table
a motion.
27.10 Simple majority of Chapter is necessary for any action, except those otherwise
designated. A two-thirds majority is necessary to alter this Constitution or Rule
and to depose the major superior.
27.11 The Mother Minister is the presiding officer, except in the case of a Chapter called
to depose her, when the Assistant Minister of the congregation is the presiding
officer and the Mother Minister may not be present. The Mother is entitled to vote
by ballot and in all other cases where her vote would change the result. When not
presiding, the Mother votes as a member of the Chapter. In any case of a tie in
voting, the motion fails. In any voting where a two-thirds majority is required, the
two-thirds shall be interpretted as being the whole number nearest a numerical
two-thirds of the votes cast, disregarding blank votes. The results of any voting
shall always be announced to Chapter.
27.12 The general treasurer presents to the chapter the financial report which has been
ratified by the superior general and her council.
27.13 The chapter is closed by a two-thirds vote of the chapter members. The report of
the chapter proceedings is signed by the superior general, the chapter members and
the secretary of the chapter.
27.14 All acts of all Chapters shall be recorded in a book kept for that purpose. Each
House shall have a copy of the Minutes of all meetings of the Chapter and of the
local Chapter of that House and these shall be kept in a place readily available to
all the members of Chapter there resident.
27.15 Full and frank discussion of questions affecting the well-being of the Community
is one purpose of a Chapter, but after the decision of the Chapter on any matters,
adverse criticism should cease.
Electing a Sister to Profession
27.16 Elections for the admission of a sister to first vows or life vows shall take place at
a chapter held not less than one month before the time of making her vows. No
27.17
27.18
27.19
27.20
27.21
27.22
sister shall be put forward until she has expressed in writing to the Mother
Minister her desire to take this step.
Only sisters who have been resident for six months in the House where the
novitiate is located shall be eligible to vote for the election of a novice to first
vows. All members of the Chapter shall receive a ballot for the election of a sister
to life vows. If any sister be unavoidably absent from such a Chapter, she may
send her sealed vote to the Mother Minister.
In all elections, the scrutineers should give to the mother the total number of votes
cast and number of affirmative, negative, wait and blank votes. Blank votes shall
be disregarded. The ballots cast should be preserved for a day or two in case any
question should be raised and a recount be necessary.
A candidate shall be a novice for not less than two or more than three years before
being put forward for election to first vows. No one shall be admitted to first vows
under the age of twenty-one.
Before the election of a sister to first vows, the names of the sisters who are to be
put forward by the Mother shall be given to each sister qualified to vote. The
ballot shall have four columns: YES, NO, WAIT, and BLANK. A cross should
be marked in one of these columns. A novice who receives a two-thirds majority
vote of YES is elected to make her first vows. A novice who fails election, but
receives less than one-third votes of NO may remain a novice for another year
before being put forward again for election. A novice failing of election a second
time must leave the convent.
No one will spend less than three years or be required to spend more than five
years before being put forward by the Mother for life vows.
Before the election of a sister to make life vows, the name of the sister put forward
by the Mother shall be given to each sister of Chapter. The ballot shall have three
columns: YES, NO, and BLANK. A cross should be placed in one of these
columns. A two-thirds majority is necessary for election. If a sister should not be
elected for profession, she may continue in the Order for one more year, if the
Chapter is willing. A vote shall be taken immediately on this matter. Ballots shall
be held for tallying until absentee ballots are received. If at the end of this year
she should again be excluded, she must leave the Franciscan Missionaries of the
Divine Compassion.
28. The role of the Franciscan superior is that of Christ
at the last supper.
She endeavors to be available to all,
to respond to each and to provide kindly for
everyone.
In the spirit of the gospel, the true and proper
concept of authority is servanthood.
In making her decision, the Franciscan superior general
leads the community
in discerning the full dimensions of a situation
and in reaching a conclusion in keeping
with truth and justice.
Because the search for truth is constantly
affected by human fallibility,
the Franciscan superior general tries to create
a climate
for dialogue in which candor is freed of defenses
and tempered with charity.
Superior General (Mother Minister)
28.1 The superior general must be at least thirty years of age and five years perpetually
professed.
28.2 The superior general for serious reasons may submit her resignation to chapter
after discussing the matter with her officers.
28.3 The superior general has personal authority in the congregation and ultimate
responsibility for the administration and government. She is the highest superior
and the final authority in all matters, excepting any matters reserved to Chapter or
previously decided by Chapter in accordance with these constitutions. She is
elected to guard the sisters’ way of life, assist them in their pilgrimage to sanctity,
and lead them in spreading the kingdom of God. She fosters in the members a
desire to grow in unity and in fidelity to the spirit in order to live their Franciscan
charism of joyful simplicity.
28.4 The superior general is elected by the general chapter for a period of four years.
She may be elected for a second but not for a third consecutive term. She may be
deposed only by a two-thirds majority vote of chapter. The current superior
general or the Assistant Minister, in the case of a chapter called to depose her,
presides at the election. Vote is by ballot.
28.5 A professed sister unable to be present at the chapter will be furnished with four
ballots. On the first two she will vote in the usual manner for the Sister who is her
first choice as major superior. These two ballots will be placed in a sealed
envelope marked on the outside “A.” The other two ballots will be similarly
marked for the sister who is her second choice; these will be placed in a sealed
envelope marked “B.” Both envelopes will be placed in another, authenticating
their source, and given to the presiding officer. This will be opened at the
Chapter, where the presiding officer will insert into the ballot box the “A” votes on
the first two ballots, respectively, and the “B” votes on the next two ballots, should
they be necessary.
28.6 If the major superior’s deposition is necessary due to reasons of physical or mental
health, the Assistant Minister convenes a special Chapter, which may honorably
relieve her of her office by a two-thirds majority vote and promptly elect a new
major superior.
28.7 Likewise, if the Major superior is censured by a two-thirds majority of Chapter for
any fault whether of government, morals or doctrine, she shall be relieved of her
office. Such a special chapter may be convened by her Assistant Minister and
shall elect a successor without delay.
28.8 The superior general’s rights and duties include:
 Representing the congregation in civil and ecclesiastical affairs;
 Presiding at sessions of the general chapter, excepting any chapter called for
her deposition, at which the Assistant Minister would preside
 Convoking the general chapter and any other chapters provided for by these
constitutions and promulgating and implementing its decisions
 Encouraging the sisters in observance of the constitutions and rule
 Dispensing members from disciplinary obligations, but not constitutional
government, according to the Constitutions
 Authorizing the temporary absence from community to a sister requesting it
 Visiting the houses of the congregation personally or through a delegate at
least once a year; (Through her visitation the superior general strives to renew
the spirit of the congregation. She challenges the sisters to review their
spirituality, their community life, and their ministry; and she offers them
support in their efforts for revitalization.)
 Seeking advice and consent of the general chapter or the convent officers in
specified matters
 Commanding a sister in virtue of the vow of obedience
 approving the request of a sister to renounce her patrimony
 Admitting candidates to the postulancy or novitiate
 Exercising her obligation to make decisions in accordance with the mission of
the Church, the nature and purpose of the institute, and the holiness of the
members
 Encouraging the members to remain open and docile to the promptings of the
Spirit
 Promoting the family spirit so the Houses of the congregation can function in
an orderly and loving spirit
 Supervising the financial affairs of the community
 Seeking ecclesiastical permission where required
 Providing discreetly and carefully for the needs of her sisters to the best of her
ability
 Employing nurses, lay ministers and others not required to be elected by
Chapter
 Communicating frequently with the Minister General of the Franciscan Order
of the Divine Compassion and promoting cooperative action and a spirit of
unity with other Franciscans
28.9 The superior general needs the consent of Chapter for the following actions:
Members
 Appointing a general secretary or general treasurer
 accepting the resignation of elected or appointed personnel
 admitting a novice to temporary profession
 admitting a sister to perpetual profession
 readmitting a sister who left the congregation after completing the novitiate
 readmitting a sister with temporary profession or perpetual profession who left
the congregation
 granting an indult of exclaustration
 approving the transfer of a member of the congregation to another institute or
receiving a sister from another institute
 authorizing a temporary absence from community to a sister requesting it.
Government
 changing the location of the principal house
 determining or changing the location of the house of formation
 establishing new houses with the written consent of the local ordinary
 suppressing existing houses
Temporalities
 approving the general accounts of the congregation
 initiating or terminating contracts in the name of the congregation
 acquiring, alienating, and mortgaging property
 requesting to assume extraordinary debts or obligations
28.10 The superior general seeks the advice of her officers for the following actions:
 determining the time and place of the general chapter
 dispensing a sister from attending the general chapter
28.11 The superior general proceeds collegially for the following actions:
 initiating the dismissal process for a perpetually professed sister
 initiating the dismissal process for a temporary professed sister
28.12 In the event of the death of the major superior, the Assistant Minister at once
makes plans for a chapter to be held within three months of the major superiors’
death
General Government/ Convent Officers
28.13 The superior general is responsible for the administration of the order.
28.14 The Officers of the Convent are: The Mother Minister, The Assistant Minister and
the Director(s) of Formation.
28.15 The Officers of the Convent shall be appointed by the Mother Minister (major
superior). Their term of office shall be the same as that of the Mother Minister
unless she recalls them sooner.
28.16 At any time, these officers may be dispensed with. She may appoint herself
Director of Formation.
28.17 If for any reason the Mother Minister and the Assistant Minister are to be out of
reach of convenient communication for a length of time, the other shall name a
sister to act for her in the event of an emergency arising during their absence.
28.18 The Assistant Superior shall have full authority in the community, second only to
the Mother Minister.
28.19 The Directress of Formation(s), if there be one, shall be responsible for
supervising the discipline and development, both spiritual and intellectual, of the
postulants and/or novices under her care. She shall instruct them in accordance
with this Constitution. She will give to each such special instruction as seems to
her wise and seek to prepare each to take her full share in the life of the
Community. She shall have full authority over them, subject to the Mother only.
In any case, the postulants and novices shall have regular contact with the Mother
Minister, either in person or by letter.
28.20 The Minister of each Branch House shall be appointed or confirmed by the Mother
Minister. She shall exercise full authority in the Branch House, second to the
Mother only.
General Administration
28.21 The superior general with the deliberative vote of chapter appoints the general
secretary.
28.22 The general secretary acts as secretary to the superior general and her council.
Under the direction of the superior general, she prepares and dispatches official
correspondence, prepares all documents which the superior general and chapter
confirm by their signatures, and is responsible for preserving all documents and
the seal of the congregation. The general secretary keeps confidential all matters
entrusted to her.
28.23 The superior general with the deliberative vote of chapter appoints the general
treasurer.
28.24 The general treasurer is responsible for financial management and financial
reporting on the temporal goods of the congregation under the direction of the
superior general the general council. In accord with civil law, she advises the
superior general and the chapter regarding the temporal affairs of the congregation
and makes recommendations regarding responsible and just stewardship of the
assets of the congregation. The general treasurer presents a detailed financial
report annually to the superior general and her council. She seeks competent
advice in financial management when necessary.
28.25 If necessary, the general treasurer may also be a general councilor.
29. Decisions are made, whenever possible, at the level
at which they are to be implemented.
Thus there operates personal responsibility
for decisions affecting not just the person, but
the person-in-community.
The true insight of freedom is that of a greater
reality: the impulse to freedom from within.
When both the sister and the Franciscan superior
are imbued with a spirit of listening
for the voice of the Father,
obstacles to personal freedom are removed, and
the will of God is manifested in each.
Branch Houses
29.1 When Chapter believes it is called by God to establish a Branch House a company
of at least two professed sisters may be sent out. The choice of sisters who are to
be sent will be made by the Mother Minister. No sister shall thus be sent away
without her free consent. A sister who has given her consent shall not be at liberty
to withdraw it, though the decision of the Mother shall, up to the last, be open to
her reconsideration.
29.2 The Minister of a Branch House shall communicate with the Mother Minister at
least once a month to keep the Mother informed of any matters affecting the
interests of the sisters in their Houses, the life and work. It is desirable that there
be a meeting of the Ministers of Branch Houses and the Mother at regular intervals
to discuss matters of common concern. The convent officers may well be invited
to these meetings.
29.3 Each year, the Mother shall visit all the Houses, spending time in each as
circumstances permit. During these visits, each sister shall have ample
opportunity to see her privately. Sisters in a Branch House shall always have the
right to unlimited correspondence with the Mother and care shall be taken to
ensure the right of privacy in such correspondence.
29.4 Professed sisters resident in a branch house constitute a local council. This
council shall have the power to deal with local matters, subject to the confirmation
of the Mother Minister. Care should be taken to see that the Mother is aware when
any important matters are to be discussed and is notified of any decisions
immediately. Matters of general concern to all the Houses shall be dealt with by
the General Chapter or the Mother Minister.
Local Government
29.5 Local superiors are perpetually professed sisters appointed by the superior general
after consultation with the sisters or elected by the membership in the respective
houses and confirmed by the superior general with the consent of her council.
29.6 Local superiors exercise personal authority in their own community according to
these constitutions.
29.7 The local superior is assisted by a local council.
29.8 The sisters of the local community elect their treasurer.
29.9 The local treasurer administers the funds received in the local convent under the
direction of the local superior. She prepares the monthly and annual financial
reports and submits them to the general treasurer.
29.10 In the local community, all sisters share responsibility for the life and the growth
of the members. The sisters participate in the decision making process in matters
pertinent to the community. If a situation arises that cannot be resolved by the
local superior, the matter is referred to the central government.
Personal Freedom
29.11 Each sister should have the freedom to choose those who minister to her own soul,
including spiritual directors and confessors. The ministers should take care to
make sure such choices are reasonably possible.
29.12 Each sister should have the freedom to determine her own health care and
matters of health maintenance, provided she is mentally sound. The community
shall do its best to prudently provide for the expenses involved, in accordance with
the expected needs of each member.
Administration of Temporal Goods
30. The congregation and local communities may acquire, possess, administer and
alienate movable and immovable goods under the conditions defined by the
constitutions. The congregation keeps in mind its witness of poverty when
acquiring temporal goods. It administers these goods as gifts of the Lord with
concern for the common good, social justice and charity.
31. The superior general of the congregation has final responsibility for the supervision of
all the movable and immovable goods of the institute and the local communities, in
accordance with the directives of chapter.
32. The congregation as an entity distinct from the local communities can and should
acquire and possess movable and immovable goods to assure its means for existence,
the meeting of general expenses, and assistance to communities in need.
33. The general treasurer of the congregation under the direction of the superior general
administers the movable and immovable goods of the congregation. The general
treasurer is responsible for the ordinary administration of the congregation. She
undertakes no extraordinary administration without authorization of the superior
general and her council.
34. The general treasurer is assisted by local treasurers. She directs only those matters
which concern their office and with due respect for the authority of the superior
general and the local leaders. Monthly, the general treasurer receives the accounts
from the local communities. Annually, she submits a summary of these for review
and approval of the superior general and her council.
35. Monthly the general treasurer gives to the superior general and the council an account
and summary report on the temporal state of the congregation.
36. The local communities may acquire and possess movable and immovable goods to
assure their means for existence and to cover local expenses. The congregation
provides for houses of formation and the establishment and maintenance of other
houses. The congregation contributes to the support of certain forms of ministry,
particularily the care of the poor and oppressed.
37. In houses not owned by the congregation, the goods of the congregation are
administered separately from that of the house.
Separation, Transfer and Re-Entry
Exclaustration
39. A sister in perpetual profession may for a serious reason request and indult of
exclaustration. The superior general with the consent of chapter can grant this indult
of exclaustration. The superior general with the consent of chapter may impose
exclaustration on a member of the congregation for a grave reason, with equity and
charity being observed. During the time of exclaustration, the sister does not wear
the habit. Her obligations to common life cease, but she observes the obligations of
the vowed life in as far as possible. By her vow of obedience she is subject to her
religious superiors. She has neither active nor passive voice in the congregation.
Dispensation
40. A sister in temporary profession who wishes dispensation before her vows expire
may be authorized by the superior general with the consent of chapter to leave
the congregation, whereby her vows cease. A sister in temporary profession, who
wishes, may leave the congregation when the time of profession has expired.
41. A sister in perpetual profession who for a serious reason wishes to leave the
congregation may ask for a dispensation from her vows. This request is to be
presented to the superior general who sends it to the Bishop Visitor together with a
statement expressing her opinion and that of chapter.
Dismissal from the Institute
42. If a sister withdraws from the congregation, she should be sought out with care and
concern and encouraged to return. Only after six months may the process of
dismissal be begun by the superior general and chapter.
43. The superior general with the consent of chapter may initiate a process of
permanent separation of a sister from the institute if her actions are the cause of
scandal in the community as well as outside it. Dismissal is a collegial act done by
secret vote of the chapter and confirmed by the Bishop Visitor.
44. Neither a sister who leaves the congregation of her own accord nor one who is
dismissed from it may claim any indemnity from the congregation. Neither may the
sister reclaim any gifts she may have made to the congregation or their value.
45. Love and concern for the person characterizes the relationship between the
congregation and any member who separates from it. The congregation assists the
separated member in her transition to a new way of life.
Transfer
46. The transfer of a sister into the congregation takes place with the consent of her
previous institute. The superior general in consultation with chapter determines
on an individual basis the manner and the length of probation in the congregation.
The time of probation in the congregation shall not be less than three years for a
perpetually professed sister. If a sister in temporary profession wishes to transfer,
she should obtain a dispensation, leave the congregation and begin anew in another
institute.
47. If a sister transfers from another community to our own, her rank in our community
is determined, for the time being, by the superior general and her council. If a sister
transfers from another community to our own, observances such as silver and golden
jubilees will be determined by the total number of years lived in both communities.
48. The transfer of a sister from the congregation takes place with the consent of the
chapter. The sister has neither active nor passive voice in the congregation during
her time of probation in the other community. The sister is free to return to the
congregation anytime before her permanent incorporation into the other community.
Re-Entry
49. A sister who left the congregation during or at the expiration of her temporary
profession may be readmitted by the superior general with the consent of her chapter.
The sister need not repeat the novitiate. The superior general determines a suitable
probationary period before temporary profession. The time of temporary profession
is at least three years, and may be extended by the superior general if it seems
opportune but not beyond another three years.
50. A sister who left the congregation after receiving a dispensation from her perpetual
profession may in exceptional cases be readmitted. A period of spiritual preparation
and a temporary profession of at least three years precede perpetual profession.
Temporary profession may be extended but not beyond another three years. Only if
it seems opportune, may the superior general extend the time for a further three
years.
51. Even though a sister who re-enters the community takes her original placement
(rank), the usual events such as silver and gold jubilees will be observed when the
necessary number of years in community have been reached.
Bishop Visitor
52. General Chapter elects a Visitor who shall be a bishop of the one, holy catholic
church. The Visitor’s term of office shall be four years, except in the event of the
death, resignation or deposition of the major superior, when he shall continue in
office for one year after the newly elected major superior has begun her term of
office. Notice of his election or re-election shall be sent to the Visitor and he shall be
respectfully asked to accept to continue in office.
53. In the event of the death or resignation of the Visitor, general council elects a Visitor
for the remainder of the term of office.
54. It shall be the duty of the Visitor to make a visitation to the motherhouse at least once
in two years. He shall make inquiry as to the observance of the Rule and
Constitution of the order interviewing, in turn privately, all the professed members of
the community; but he shall not possess any executive authority to act toward the
community except as guardian of its written laws.
55. The Visitor’s consent shall be necessary for the dispensation of perpetual vows,
whether a sister is dismissed or asks to be released from her vows. If anyone is
exclaustrated for more than three years, the Visitor must be informed.
56. The Bishop Visitor has no authority or power to act toward the community other than
those powers granted to him by this constitution. As a leader of a Franciscan lay
community, he leads primarily through influence and pastoral service.
57. The Minister General of the Franciscan Order of the Divine Compassion, if he is a
catholic bishop, or the Bishop Protector of the Franciscan order of the Divine
Compassion may be elected Bishop Visitor.
Significance and Binding Force of the Constitutions
58. The Constitutions and Rule of the Franciscan Missionaries of Divine Compassion
serve as the basic means of fostering unity, peace and stability in our congregation.
They touch the whole life of a sister. They reflect how the sisters strive to make
present Christ’s love and to proclaim this healing love wherever they are. Religious
obedience obliges all the members to specific obligations within the limits of these
particular constitutions. The authentic interpretation of the constitutions belongs to
the General Chapter.
59. The Rule and Constitutions contain spiritual principles which inspire life and action
in the congregation, and norms of action in the congregation, and norms of action
which flow from these principles. Changes in these sections require a two-thirds
vote of the general chapter.
60. The directory gives details for living out daily the spiritual principles of the
congregation and the actions which flow from them. The norms in the directory
apply to all members of the congregation. Changes in the directory require a twothirds vote by the general chapter.