What is an Anizan Fraternity?

Men and women who want to follow Jesus and live the Gospel together, in the way of Father Anizan, the founder of the Sons of Charity.  They are persons committed to the world of poor people and to poor neighborhoods, and they are inspired and supported by the spirituality of this man who had a passion for God and for the people.  They want to live, as Jesus did, according to the gospel of mercy and compassion, among the crowds of people.  They do this through their family life, work life, and neighborhood life, and through their commitments both inside and outside the Church, in parishes, groups, and communities.

The Fraternity is a place of prayer, exchange, and learning.  It offers a way of spiritual life that is centered on Charity and the Love of God, which we welcome and share with others.

The Anizan Fraternity was established as a civil association in France in the year 2000, and as a private association of the faithful in January, 2007.  Its purpose is to learn about Fr. Anizan and his spiritual and apostolic life.  It is a place for listening, exchange, prayer and deeper study of its members’ lives; it is a well of spiritual nourishment, that helps people live as men and women who are impassioned for God and for the people.  The Fraternity in France currently has 83 members, who are divided into local groups.  Each group tries to live a serious prayer and sacramental life and an apostolic commitment in service to the Church and society.  Each group generally meets once a month.  A general assembly and special times such as retreats and formation days are held during the year. 

Various Anizan Fraternities have been starting up in different countries.

The General Chapter of the Sons of Charity of July, 2006, expressed its joy to see that there are Christians who want to live out their baptism and the mission in the way of Fr. Anizan, and that diverse groups, which are similar in the essentials, are developing in France, Portugal, Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Africa, and the Philippines.  The Chapter asked the Sons to offer these groups their help and support, while respecting their autonomy.  The Chapter also expressed the desire that an evangelical family be constituted to facilitate exchange and collaboration among those people who are inspired by our founder’s charism:  particularly, the Sons of Charity, the Auxiliaries of Charity, and lay persons who are in relationship with the two congregations. 

If you are interested, contact the Sons of Charity of your country or the General Council.