Franciscans
(See also the Franciscan Web at American University.)
There are three orders of Franciscans founded by St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare of Assisi. The first order, the Friars Minor, received the approval of Pope Innocent III in 1209. Members of the Friars Minor take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. The second order, the Poor Clares, were founded by St. Clare of Assisi, a follower of Francis, in 1212. This order was formed for women who wished to follow the way of life which Francis preached. The third order, called Brothers and Sisters of Penance, Penitents, or Tertiaries, include lay people as well as monks and nuns. Members of the Franciscan orders include St. Anthony of Padua and St. Margaret of Cortona.
Bibliography
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