The Rule

The Rule of the Warrior Penitents calls members to a life of active contemplation, where deep prayer and reflection unite with committed service to others. Following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, members dedicate themselves to daily prayer, immersion in Sacred Scripture, study of the Church Fathers, and inspiration from the Saints. Adapted to the unique fellowship of U.S. military veterans and active service members, this Rule guides each Penitent in embodying faith, service, and compassion. Organized into Fraternities, Warrior Penitents support one another through prayer, fellowship, and mutual aid as they strive to live the Gospel in their local communities through building relationships and service.

There are three requirements to being a member of the Community of Warrior Penitents:

Be a current service member, a veteran of the U.S. Military, or a close afamily member.

The CWP is a community for Military members, veterans, and direct family members to grow in faith and purpose together. The veteran community has unique problems and experiences that are best supported by others who have shared those experiences.

2) Be a Catholic (Latin Rite or Eastern Rite) in good standing with the Church.

The CWP uses St. Francis of Assisi as our spiritual father and is the example we look to in how to live our lives. Our foundation revolves around the prayer hours of the Catholic Church and we believe it is the Church started by Jesus Christ.

3) Be willing to live a life of active contemplation following the Rule of the Community of Warrior Penitents.

Similar to swearing into the military, we need to be dedicated to our desire to live a structured life of prayer and service. Deciding to fully join the CWP is a serious step and the reason why there is a discernment and formation process that can last from one to three years.

The Rule of the
Community of Warrior Penitents

  1. Living the Gospel in the Spirit of St. Francis:
    As spiritual children of St. Francis of Assisi, members commit to following Christ with humility, simplicity, and love. Each day, strive to embody the Gospel, finding joy and purpose in service to others.
  2. Prayer and Devotion:
    Daily Prayer: Commit to praying the Morning (Lauds) and Evening Prayers (Vespers) from the Liturgy of the Hours, Monastic Diurnal, or Anthologion, joining Catholics worldwide in the Church’s universal prayer.
    All members are encouraged to pray Order of Readings (Matins), Midday Prayer (Sext), and Night Prayer (Compline) as well if time allows it in their daily lives.
  3. Ongoing Conversion: Embrace an ongoing journey of personal conversion, seeking God’s mercy and striving to grow in holiness and compassion.
    It is recommended that all members have a trusted spiritual director to assist them in continual development and growth in their faith.
  4. Fraternity and Community:
    Gather regularly with fellow members to support one another through prayer, study, and shared mission. Build strong bonds rooted in faith, encouragement, service to the community, and accountability.
  5. Service and Readiness to Serve:
    Always be prepared to respond to the needs of others, whether through direct action or prayerful support. Stay physically active to ensure readiness to serve effectively, however you are needed.
  6. Works of Mercy:
    Corporal Works of Mercy: Live out Christ’s call to serve by feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned, sheltering the homeless, and burying the dead.
    Spiritual Works of Mercy: Begin with those closest to you, offering compassionate correction, guidance, consolation, and forgiveness. Bear wrongs patiently and pray for both the living and the dead.
  7. Simplicity and Technological Discipline:
    Embrace simplicity in all aspects of life, avoiding excess, especially with technology. Limit distractions from devices to prioritize prayer, study, community, and service.
  8. Study and Spiritual Growth:
    Study the writings of the Church Fathers, key Church documents, and other works that deepen understanding of the faith. Reflect on Sacred Scripture daily, allowing it to shape and guide your actions and mindset.
  9. Language Learning, Outreach, and Cultural Awareness:
    Work to learn a secondary language commonly spoken in your area to better connect with and serve the local community, sharing the Gospel effectively with those you meet through action and word.
  10. Stewardship of Creation:
    Practice responsible stewardship of the environment, respecting all creation as a gift from God.
    In gratitude, live simply and avoid unnecessary waste, mindful of your impact on the world around you.
  11. Gratitude and Joy:
    Embrace a spirit of gratitude and joy, especially for God’s mercy and the blessings in daily life. Like St. Francis, find joy in simplicity, humility, and the beauty of creation.
    Remember to remain grateful for a merciful God.