Our legacy includes a tribute to the brave and visionary Irish Capuchins who dreamed of establishing a school for seminarians. In 1945, after a failed attempt to do so in Mendocino, the friars came across the Flintridge Country Club whose owner was in financial difficulty. The friars made the significant purchase and at the request of Archbishop Cantwell, took in day students from the area that lacked a Catholic high school. A year later, in 1946 the doors to St. Francis High School opened – and the Capuchin Franciscan Order mission “to be a joyful presence of hope and salvation to all, especially to those most in need” was applied to their newest ministry.  At St. Francis High School, those most in need were and continue to be the young men who fill our classrooms with energy and question, enthusiasm and uncertainty – and leave our hillside campus as gentlemen of virtue.

As we begin to welcome third-generation Golden Knights, we see tangible evidence of the strength of our legacy. We understand our Capuchin Franciscan tradition that enriches the mind and heart has not only taken root, it has flourished. 

We ask you to consider this: Is St. Francis High School a part of your legacy? We understand extraordinary gifts create extraordinary opportunities. Gift planning provides dynamic means to honor traditions and encourage our future. It has been said, “Education is our greatest opportunity to give an irrevocable gift to the next generation.” Think what an education rooted in the Capuchin Franciscan tradition that models humility, brotherhood, service and prayer can do for generations of young men. Remember how that education shaped your life and allowed you to uncover and develop God-given gifts to become the best man you can be.  

By making a provision for St. Francis High School in your estate plan, via bequests, charitable trusts, gifts of life insurance or retirement funds, you will be honored as a member in our 1946 Legacy Circle. Named for the year St. Francis High School first opened its doors, the 1946 Legacy Circle honors dear friends who have named St. Francis High School as a beneficiary in their will or estate. This leadership group of dear friends will perpetuate our St. Francis High School legacy and commitment to enriching the mind and heart.