St. Francis of Assisi is a significant person in the history of Christian spirituality; he transformed the Church and religious life as we know it to be today. He was born the son of a successful cloth merchant in Assisi, Italy in 1181. One day while in prayer, Francis experienced what may be called a conversion. He was asked by Jesus: “Francis, rebuild my Church, which has fallen into ruins.”  In response to God, he became a peacemaker and healer, dedicated to helping the poor in their suffering. He attracted a large group of disciples; today these followers number in the millions!

Fast forward eight centuries, the people of God remain to be in need of peace, healing and hope. Today, St. Francis of Assisi's love for Jesus and those who are poor continues to inspire the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor.

Founded in 1845 by Blessed Frances Schervier in Aachen, Germany, who was inspired by the Gospel values of St. Francis of Assisi, the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor are women religious called to bring compassion, hope and healing to the community of life. Their compassion and hope to those in need is exemplified as they house the homeless, care for children and families, feed the hungry, minister to the sick, offer compassion and hope to the hopeless, and care for the community of life. They are from many countries and cultures yet they are one - in communion with each other and the Church and are especially united through their deep spirit of communal prayer. Today the Sisters pray and work in the United States, Brazil, Italy, Senegal, and the Philippines.

Locally, the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor have their feet on the streets while keeping with their Blessed Frances Schervier's commitment to society's most marginalized groups.

A relilgious vocation to the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor calls people to consecrate their lives to service for those who are poor and marginalized worldwide. If you would like to learn more about what it is like to be a Franciscan Sister of the Poor or if you would like to schedule a vocations presentation at your school or organization, please contact Ruthy Trusler, 1-800-761-9040, ext. 132.

Tamar's Place, located in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine area, began as a 'lifeline off hope and help' for those trapped in prostitution. The goal is to give an opportunity to feel safe enough to ask for referrals to other programs like drug rehabilitation, housing, or employment so as to help improve their lives and leave a life of prostitution. Look what the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor are doing to help the victims of Human Trafficking. (Television Interview: What's Working: Sisters of the Poor have their Feet on the Streets of Cincinnati - Tamar's Place.) Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart provides hair care to those who are  poor and homeless. This licensed professional walk-in-salon provides haircuts, perms, and relaxers to low-income and homeless children and adults. The salon is located near Findlay Market in Mercy Franciscan St. John Social Services. (Television Interview: What's Working: Sisters of the Poor have their Feet on the Streets of Cincinnati - Haircuts from the Heart.) Our Lady of the Woods (OLW) is a senior independent living community that provides a healthy environment which promotes independence and dignity to the elderly. It is supported solely by individual donors and grants; OLW receives no public funding.

Tau Community House, located in St. Bernard, Ohio, provides an opportunity for young people and adults to experience a diverse culture, prayers, and community living in a simple lifestyle. Franciscans for the Poor recruits, selects, and places individuals in non-profit agencies that give an opportunity to bond with others for insight into the causes and effects of poverty. While here, volunteers live a simple, communal lifestyle. Young Adult Programs. Although many of the young adults (18 to 40) in the United States are in college or busy building careers or raising children, they want to give and help those in need. They prefer multi-generational settings, and prefer opportunities and services that are real, relevant relational, and genuine. They seek community and spirituality: we provide both as well as opportunitites to serve others. Join us on the 3rd Friday of the month for a free concert, community art show, and light refreshments. Coming soon: a young adult theater! The Centennial Barn evolved from the concept of a community gathering place on the grounds of St. Clare Convent. Completely remodeled into a beautiful and serene venue for meetings, wedding receptions, and a variety of events that improve body as well as soul. It also offers community gardens which last year donated over 2500 pounds of produce to local charities.

Our newest ministry is Art for All People! It is sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor. The mission is to bring the arts to people who are marginalized in the community. When dealing with pain, addiction, and loss there simply are no words to explain the extent of suffering. This is when the language of arts becomes essential. AFAP's goal is to promote healing and reassert a sense of hope through the art making process and trusting relationships. Look for more information!