| − | 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. [https://www.franciscancentertampa.org/the-franciscan-order/ Franciscan website] . | + | 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. [https://www.franciscancentertampa.org/the-franciscan-order/ Franciscan website] 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. |