| − | The [[Franciscan]]s began in the early 13th century, founded by St. Francis of Assisi, who emphasized poverty, simplicity, and love for all of creation. Over time, the order split into several families, including the Observants<ref>https://ofm.org/</ref>, Conventuals<ref>https://www.franciscans.org/</ref>, and Capuchins<ref>https://www.ofmcap.org/en/</ref>; All of them are also known as the '''first branch of the Franciscan Order'''; they consists of brothers and priests. Franciscans are active in missionary work, social justice advocacy, ecological initiatives, and parish ministry. . | + | The [[Franciscan]]s began in the early 13th century, founded by [[Saint Francis of Assisi |St. Francis of Assisi]], who emphasized poverty, simplicity, and love for all of creation. Over time, the order split into several families, including the Observants<ref>https://ofm.org/</ref>, Conventuals<ref>https://www.franciscans.org/</ref>, and Capuchins<ref>https://www.ofmcap.org/en/</ref>; All of them are also known as the '''first branch of the Franciscan Order'''; they consists of brothers and priests. Franciscans are active in missionary work, social justice advocacy, ecological initiatives, and parish ministry. . |
| | The Poor Clare Nuns constitute the '''second branch of the Franciscan Order''', founded in the 13th century by Saint Clare under the inspiration and guidance of Saint Francis of Assisi<ref>https://cloisteredlife.com/poor-clares</ref>. They are cloistered contemplative nuns. | | The Poor Clare Nuns constitute the '''second branch of the Franciscan Order''', founded in the 13th century by Saint Clare under the inspiration and guidance of Saint Francis of Assisi<ref>https://cloisteredlife.com/poor-clares</ref>. They are cloistered contemplative nuns. |