The Community of Warrior Penitents

Who We Are:

The Community of Warrior Penitents is a Catholic lay community formed by U.S. military veterans seeking deeper purpose through their Catholic faith. Rooted in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi—himself a soldier turned servant of God—we live by a Rule of Life that calls us to active contemplation and dedicated service to our local communities. Organized into Fraternities, we support one another through prayer, fellowship, and action, striving to embody the humility, simplicity, and compassion that St. Francis modeled.

Our Mission:

The Community of Warrior Penitents exists to guide U.S. military veterans into a life of faith-filled purpose through a Rule of Life inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. Rooted in active contemplation and dedicated service, we seek to deepen our relationship with Christ, strengthen our bonds within Fraternities, and embody the Gospel through prayer, compassion, and outreach to our local communities.

Our Vision:

We envision a community of veterans transformed by faith, united in service, and committed to living the Gospel with humility, simplicity, and love. Inspired by the spirit of St. Francis, we aim to foster a supportive environment where members continually grow in holiness, answer the call to serve others, and find purpose through a life anchored in Christ.

Our Humble Beginning:

The Community of Warrior Penitents was born from a deep desire to provide military veterans with a structured path to purpose, community, and accountability after their service. After 16 years in the U.S. Army, our founding brother recognized the challenges veterans faced when transitioning from the discipline and structure of military life to the civilian world. He saw the need for a life rooted in prayer, active contemplation, and service to navigate this transition with faith and intention.

Through a period of discernment guided by his spiritual director, the foundation of a Rule of Life began to emerge, one inspired by St. Francis of Assisi’s Rule for the Franciscans. During the Summer of 2024, at his spiritual director’s encouragement, he opened the door to other U.S. military veterans who shared a similar calling. From this moment of inspiration and collaboration, the Community of Warrior Penitents was established.

What is Active Contemplation?

Active contemplation is the harmony of prayer and service, where every action becomes a prayer to God. It means living a life deeply rooted in faith, bringing prayer into every aspect of our daily activities. Inspired by St. Paul’s call to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), active contemplation transforms ordinary moments into opportunities for communion with God. By intentionally aligning our work, relationships, and service with His will, we unite the stillness of prayer with the dynamic nature of daily life, making every step a journey closer to Christ.

Who Can Join?

Any Catholic in good standing with the Catholic Church or catechumen in RCIA/OCIA who is a veteran of the U.S. Military or a spouse/child of a U.S. Military veteran.

Why Join the Community of Warrior Penitents?

Joining the Community of Warrior Penitents is a commitment to transformation, purpose, and growth. Many veterans face challenges transitioning to civilian life, struggling with a loss of structure, purpose, or camaraderie. The Community of Warrior Penitents offers a path to rediscover those essential elements through faith, service, community, and prayer.

  • Transformation: Life as a Warrior Penitent fosters personal conversion and renewal. By living according to a Rule of Life inspired by the Franciscan tradition, members embark on a journey to deepen their faith, find healing, and cultivate a Christ-centered life.
  • Community: Veterans thrive in a sense of brotherhood/sisterhood, and the Warrior Penitents provide that bond. Through Fraternities, members support one another in prayer, accountability, and encouragement, building lasting friendships rooted in faith.
  • Service: Serving others is at the heart of the Gospel. The Warrior Penitents actively live out the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, offering their unique skills and experiences to uplift those in need.
  • A Life of Prayer: The Rule calls members to a disciplined life of prayer, including the Divine Office, Scripture, and the Rosary. These practices deepen members’ relationship with God and help them carry a spirit of prayer into every aspect of life.

Joining the Community is not just about what you give, though you’ll serve generously, but also about what you receive: a renewed sense of purpose, a supportive community, and a life that honors God through action and contemplation.

If you’re seeking a faith-filled path that integrates your experiences as a veteran with a call to live the Gospel, the Community of Warrior Penitents may be your next step.

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