An initiative of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia
Located in Chester, Pennsylvania, Canticle House is a Franciscan Intentional Community that invites spiritual seekers to live simply, intentionally, and in relationship—with one another, with creation, and with God. Inspired by the lives of Sts. Francis and Clare, we strive to recognize each person and all creation as expressions of God’s ever-unfolding love.
Small acts of care, rooted in community—this is life at Canticle House, with Srs. Pat and Diane.
Walk With Us
Canticle House is seeking women in their 20s or 30s who feel called to share life in community, grow spiritually, and respond to the needs of our world together.
Our Way of Life
Life at Canticle House is rooted in a shared desire to grow—personally and communally—through practices that are simple, authentic, relational, and sustainable. Together, we nurture hope, celebrate diversity, and make daily choices that contribute to the healing and well-being of our Earth.
Community members support one another through shared rhythms of prayer, meals, celebrations, and everyday life. Each person brings their own gifts and commitments—working, studying, or volunteering beyond the household—while contributing to the life of the community.
A monthly program fee includes a private room, shared living spaces, food, and utilities.
Values:
Rooted in the Franciscan tradition, four core values energize the mission and vision of Canticle House. We approach these values as individual and communal practices that invite ongoing reflection, daily openness, and continuous conversion:
~nurturing life-giving and mutual relationships.
~offering hospitality and welcome.
~seeking environmental and social justice.
~living contemplatively, integrating reflection and action.
We believe the practice of these values encourages ever-deepening consciousness of the interconnectedness of everyone and everything, allows for greater participation in the fullness of life, and opens us to love as God loves.
The Canticle House residential community supports one another in living these values through mutually determined rhythms and types of shared meals, prayer, celebrations, and activities. Members work, study, or volunteer beyond the community and contribute to expenses through a monthly program fee that includes a private room, common spaces, shared food, and utilities.
Vision Statement:
As a Franciscan Intentional Community (FIC), Canticle House welcomes young adults and other seekers to engage creatively, holistically, and collaboratively in developing and deepening their understanding of what it means:
~to respond to the call of one’s personal spirituality.
~to offer one’s gifts, time, and dreams for the local and global good.
~to experience intercultural, intergenerational, and interdependent relationships.
~to participate in the transforming work of the Spirit in our world.
~to respect and celebrate all creation as a reflection of God.
