Lay People have been an integral part of the Franciscan tradition from the beginning. This talk will trace the history of that lay participation in the earliest decades and see how it can inform our understanding of lay participation today. Dr. Pryds will give particular attention to what has been called “Fourth Order,” or the many people who self-identify as “Franciscan” without claiming any official membership in one of the traditional three orders of the Franciscan Family. Dr. Pryds will conclude with some reflections on the future of the Franciscan charism in the 21st century.

This Zoom presentation will take place on December 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM Pacific Time, USA.

https://www.fst.edu/events/franciscan-zoom-lecture-by-darleen-pryds-phd/