About Us

Our Charism

The Franciscans of Restored Hope (FRH) is a religious order rooted in Christ-like love and prayerful service to all—especially those forced to the margins of society. Founded in the spirit of the Franciscan tradition, our charism is shaped by the life and witness of St. Francis of Assisi, who chose radical humility, simplicity, and boundless compassion for the poor and excluded.

Inspired by his example, we serve in the streets, in shelters, and especially at our home base at the Hotel Cecil on Los Angeles' Skid Row. We believe God is already present among the poor and brokenhearted—and our task is not to bring God, but to meet Christ already there. We strive to be signs of restored hope, offering prayerful presence, compassionate accompaniment, and fearless love.

We are a diverse and inclusive community of Friars, Sisters, and contemplatives, bound by our shared mission to reflect the Gospel’s call to care for “the least among us.” Our work is grounded in daily prayer, acts of mercy, and the radical belief that love—freely given and never withheld—can transform lives.

Our Rule of Life

Our Rule is not one of rigidity, but of devotion—a framework that supports a life of faith, integrity, and service. We embrace:

• Simplicity – Choosing lives of intentional minimalism to make space for deeper relationships, inner peace, and humble service.

• Fidelity – Remaining faithful to our prayer life, to each other, and to the sacred dignity of every human being.

• Obedience – A collaborative obedience that listens for God’s will through community, Church, and personal discernment. Our obedience is not blind—it is responsive and mutual.

We walk a path of formation that includes candidacy, novitiate, and profession of vows. We also welcome lay companions—those who feel called to live our charism within their own life contexts, offering prayer, presence, and love in their daily walk.

We do not use militaristic titles or hierarchical structures. Instead, our leadership is entrusted to senior Friars and Sisters, with spiritual support from a Bishop-Protector who accompanies rather than governs.

Discern With Us

We joyfully welcome all people—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or life circumstances—to consider joining our journey of restored hope. Whether you are drawn to a contemplative life or hands-on ministry, whether you're unsure or already certain, there's space for your story here.

Our way of life is not always easy, but it is beautiful. It is marked by listening, serving, praying, and building a world where the forgotten are remembered and the rejected are embraced. If your heart stirs as you read this, we invite you to reach out.

Let’s discern together what God may be calling you to.
Let’s restore hope—one life, one prayer, one act of love at a time.

Our Patron, Br. Benno

Our patron, Br. Benno, was a Franciscan friar renowned for his humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to those in need. For 18 years, he served as the gatekeeper of the monastery, welcoming all who came to its doors with warmth and kindness. Beyond his role, Br. Benno tirelessly fed the hungry, comforted the afflicted, and brought hope to the downtrodden. His life of selfless service inspires us to embody the Gospel’s call to radical love and inclusivity. Through his example, we are reminded to see Christ in every person and to serve others with joy and generosity.

Learn more about Br. Benno here!

Friar Andre Maria

Friar, Hermit

The Rt. Rev. Dylan Littlefield

Friar, Bishop-Protector

Our Members