The Franciscans (grey/gray friars) are a group of related organizations in the Catholic Church, founded or inspired by the Italian saint Francis of Assisi.

Dec 3, 2025 · Franciscan, any member of a Roman Catholic religious order founded in the early 13th century by St. Francis of Assisi. The Franciscan order is one of the four great mendicant orders of …

The Conventual Franciscans are one of the three branches of the First Order of St. Francis. Our Order is spread throughout the world.

While Franciscan theology can refer to a wide range of principles, Franciscan spirituality generally aligns with the teachings of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi. Franciscans include priests, sisters, …

Sign up to receive heartwarming stories of faith from the friars. © 2026 Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Inc. All rights reserved. We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, and to …

Jun 16, 2022 · The Jesuits have their Ignatian Exercises and Examen, the Benedictines have their structured life of Ora et Labora, the Trappists have their silence and contemplation, the Dominicans …

While other mendicant groups such as the Dominicans share a commitment to poverty, preaching, and teaching, the Franciscans stand out in their specific emphasis on joyful simplicity and caring for …