The Franciscan way of life is centered on a deep love for God and creation, community, service, simplicity, peace and justice, and care for creation. Franciscans strive to follow the example of Jesus Christ and to live in accordance with the Gospel values.

Theological Foundations:

The Franciscan way of life is rooted in theological foundations that emphasize God’s incarnational presence within creation. Central to Franciscan theology is the commitment to living out the Gospel and understanding God’s love as deeply relational and transformative. This tradition fosters an inclusive worldview that reveres creation, highlighting stewardship and solidarity with all beings. Franciscans draw on the teachings of St. Francis and St. Clare, stressing obedience to the Church and enriching spiritual practices through community engagement.

Spiritual Practices:

Franciscan spiritual practices reflect a dynamic relationship between contemplation and action, emphasizing a Christocentric spirituality. Key components include daily prayer, communal life, and a commitment to living simply and humbly. These practices not only nurture personal faith but also engage individuals in service to others, particularly those marginalized by society. Through rituals and disciplines rooted in the teachings of St. Francis, Franciscans foster a transformative spirituality that sees God present in all aspects of life.

Service and Ministry:

Service and ministry are at the heart of the Franciscan way of life, where the focus lies on caring for the poor and marginalized. Inspired by St. Francis’ example, Franciscans engage in direct action and solidarity rather than mere charity. Their ministries encompass feeding the hungry, providing shelter, and advocating for social justice. Through committed outreach, Franciscans aim to embody Christ’s love by fostering genuine relationships with those they serve, thereby transforming lives and communities

The Franciscan Order:

The Franciscan Order comprises three main branches: First Order (Friars Minor), Second Order (Poor Clares), and Third Order. The First Order consists of friars engaged in active service. The Second Order includes cloistered nuns dedicated to prayer. The Third Order is divided into Secular Franciscans and Third Order Regular. In the U.S., specific orders include OFM, OFM Conv., OFM Cap., TOR, and SFO, each with unique focuses within the Franciscan tradition of service, simplicity, and devotion.