Yes. Unlike more traditional communities, the Fellowship is not at risk for medical costs of its members because we are not responsible for member living expenses, and member assets are not held in common.
May married, widowed or divorced persons become vocational members?
Yes. Married couples make their vows together. Single persons promise to remain single. The chastity vows includes the promise not to change one's marital status.
May I become a vocational member of the Fellowship by myself?
No. Vocational members must belong to a Christian denomination. All must have approval of a spiritual director to profess vows. In addition, secular Solitaries must have approval of a bishop, and oblates, of the proper authority of an established religious community. Those authorities must also approve the Solitary's Rule and its practice. Furthermore, denominational requirements must be met.
To whom are the members of the Fellowship obedient?
Lay members of the Fellowship are not under vows and are not expected to be obedient to anyone in the religious sense of the word. Vocational members are considered parallel and equal members. No member has authority over any other member. Obedience is to ones Rule or an entity specified by it.
Are all vocational members necessarily "active?"
No. Those vocational members arising through the various membership steps would do so with the goal of active vocations. However, Solitaries who have already been received by their donominational authority and live a contemplative lifestyle, may transfer their vocations intact into the Fellowship. Those "quiet and secluded" members would be entitled to all the benefits available to active Solitaries in the Fellowship, though it would be understood that some of the vocational work should result in some charitible aid through sale of products or some type of reimbursed service..
Can members be anonymous?
Absolutely. The Fellowship recognizes that many Solitaries do not want public recognition. Those who wish to remain anonymous would receive the Flag and be welcome to take advantage of any benefits available to active members..
No. Friend level of membership has no fees or required donations. Corporate members are required to be contributors of record, but no specific amount is specified. It is hoped, however, that the cost of carrying them is covered.
How can the Fellowship support my vocation?
The Fellowship can use its Relief budget to help defray the cost of the ministry projects of vocational members. In addition, many of the operating costs can be shared. Other types of financial support depend on the type of membership and individual needs.
Can contributions be made to Fellowship Charitos, Inc.?
Donations to the Fellowship are normally divided between Relief Aid, Operating Costs, and Housing or Ministry costs of the Professed Ministers. However, a benefactor may specify a specific purpose for a donation, if desired.
May a member set up a fund for an individual ministry project?
Sometimes. Servants and Ministers may not set up a specific account, but they may apply to the Fellowship Board of Directors to have some of the common Relief Fund provided to support their ministry projects. Life Professed members may have a Mission Fund set up to support their own ministry projects. They would be responsible for supporting it, and could also establish an income producing endowment for it if they chose to do so.
