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Franciscan Friday: The Franciscan Family Tree

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Explaining the Franciscan “family tree” is no easy feat. The simple man from Assisi inspired and attracted so many people to his Gospel-driven lifestyle over the centuries, and each person has found (or created) his or her own place in the vast movement.

Whether male or female, religious or lay, professed or just interested in learning more, there is a place for everyone in the Franciscan movement who values simplicity and wants to work for peace, justice, reconciliation, and care for creation.

We came up with this diagram to help explain to our new missioners, volunteers and staff the Franciscan “family tree.” As an organization, we are blessed to work with all the branches and are particularly proud to be made up of many of what we call the “unofficial fourth order” of Franciscan-hearted people. 

Hopefully this diagram can also help others grasp the diversity of the Franciscan movement. If you have any suggestions for improvement, please let us know. 

Thanks to domestic volunteer and communications associate Anna Robinson for her awesome infographic design!
P.S. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to help us end our fiscal year strong and prepare for our incoming class of lay missioners.  

We prepare and support lay Catholics for two-year international, one-year domestic and 1-2 week short-term mission service opportunities in solidarity with impoverished and marginalized communities across the globe.

The blog is maintained by the communications staff.