The Franciscan Order is divided into three main branches: the First Order, the Second Order, and the Third Order.
- First Order (Friars Minor): This group consists of friars, including both ordained priests and non-ordained brothers, who live together in communities. Their primary focus is on active service, which encompasses preaching, teaching, and assisting those in need.
- Second Order (Poor Clares): This order includes nuns who live in cloistered communities, dedicating their lives to prayer and a simple, devoted lifestyle.
- Third Order: This branch is split into two groups.
- The Secular Franciscans are regular individuals striving to embody Franciscan values in their daily lives, while
- the Third Order Regular consists of religious communities of men and women who engage in active ministries, similar to those of the First Order.
Within the Franciscan branches in the U.S., several specific orders exist:
- Order of Friars Minor (OFM): The original group founded by St. Francis, which includes both non-ordained brothers and ordained priests, focusing on community living and service.
- Conventual Franciscan Friars (OFM Conv.): This group emphasizes preaching and education and also includes both brothers and priests.
- Capuchin Franciscan Friars (OFM Cap.): Known for their commitment to simplicity and poverty, this group comprises both ordained and non-ordained members.
- Third Order Regular (TOR): This order consists of men and women living in community, following Franciscan principles, and includes both brothers and priests.
- Secular Franciscan Order (SFO): This group is made up of laypeople who integrate Franciscan values into their everyday lives.
Overall, the branches represent the main divisions of the Franciscan family, while the orders within those branches each have distinct focuses and missions.