THE FRANCISCAN FAMILY
The Franciscan family is structured into three distinct orders, all born from the spiritual vision of their common founder: Saint Francis of Assisi.
First Order – The Friars
The first order was born in 1209, when Saint Francis obtained oral approval from Pope Innocent III. The definitive Rule was approved by Pope Honorius III on November 29, 1223.
This order is characterized by three fundamental elements:
- Fraternal life
- Evangelical poverty
- Service to others
Over time, the order organized itself into Provinces and convents. Since 1517, due to different interpretations of the Franciscan life, it progressively divided into three main branches:
Order of Friars Minor Conventual (OFMConv)
This represents the historical branch of the Franciscan family and guards the body of Saint Francis in Assisi.
Order of Friars Minor (OFM)
These are the Friars Minor who collect the spiritual legacy of the Observance, born from the experience of Paoluccio da Trinci in 1368, and of other later reforms. Their objective is to live the original Franciscanism through a rigorous observance of the Rule.
Order of Friars Minor Capuchin (OFMCap)
Founded in 1525, they emerged as a reform movement of the Observants. They wish to return to the original way of life of Saint Francis, characterized by solitude and penance.
Second Order – The Poor Clares
The second order was founded in 1212 by Saint Clare, from whom it takes its name. It is dedicated to the contemplative life and follows the Rule approved by Pope Innocent IV in 1253.
The communities of the Poor Clares maintain ties with the three male orders, reflecting in their historical journey the same developments as the First Order.
Third Order – The Secular Franciscan Order
The Third Franciscan Order includes a regular branch (composed of men and women belonging to several religious institutes), and the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS), composed of baptized laity who wish to follow the Franciscan spirituality.
Members of the OFS live the Gospel in daily life through:
- Fraternity
- Commitment in the world of work
- Family life
- Social participation
The Fraternities are organized on four levels: international, national, regional, and local.
The Formation Journey
To become members, candidates undergo a period of spiritual and cultural formation to deepen their understanding of the Franciscan charism and the evangelical life. At the end of this journey, they publicly make their profession, formally committing to live according to the Rule.
