The Secular Franciscan Order

 Chapter 1

The Franciscan family, as one among many spiritual families raised up by

the Holy Spirit in the Church, unites all members of the people of

God--laity, religious, and priests-- who recognize that they are called

to follow Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi. In various

ways and forms but in life-giving union with each other, they intend to

make present the charism of their common Seraphic Father in the life and

mission of the Church.