Rule 2

The Secular Franciscan Order holds a special place in this family circle. It is an organic union of all Catholic fraternities scattered throughout the world and open to every group of the faithful. In these fraternities the brothers and sisters, led by the Spirit, strive for perfect charity in their own secular state. By their profession they pledge themselves to live the gospel in the manner of St. Francis by means of this rule approved by the Church.

Our "family circle" really consists of around 500,000 people who have joined the Secular Franciscan Order, throughout the world. There are thousands of Fraternities.  There are over 12,000 Secular Franciscans in USA. We are a vital part of the family of St. Francis.

Rule 2 emphasizes that brothers and sisters in these fraternities, led by the spirit (that is, discerning their vocation) try to live the life in perfect charity in their own secular state. It also tells us that their profession is a pledge to live the gospel as intended. If the sisters and brothers diligently live the gospel in the manner of St. Francis by means of this rule, great holiness can result from their faithful adherence to the profession, their pledge or promise. The Prologue to the Rule, tells us of the rewards of faithful striving to obey the Rule of St. Francis.

There are fraternities that are "organic" and "in-organic" - that is, fraternities that have received Canonical Approbation, and those who have not, respectively.

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5-10-2008