SFO Governing Documents 

The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order emphasizes the values of poverty, chastity, and obedience, offering a framework for spiritual growth and service to others.

Secular Franciscans and their spiritual assistants will appreciate this little booklet—an English translation of the approved Latin text of the Ritual for the Secular Franciscan Order. The Preface provides background on the history and purpose of the Ritual and helpful guidelines for its use. Part 1 contains the rites for celebrating the various stages of admission to the Secular Franciscan Order. Part 2 contains prayers for use at the various meetings of Secular Franciscan fraternities. An Appendix includes appropriate Scripture readings, Franciscan readings and prayers of St. Francis.

The General Constitutions of the Ordo Franciscanus Secularis (or Secular Franciscan Order) is a document that expands and explains how Secular Franciscans might live out the Rule of the OFS in their daily lives. It is organized into chapters corresponding to the chapters of the Rule. Chapter One (Articles 1-7) addresses the Secular Franciscan Order. Chapter Two (Articles 8-27) discusses the Forms of Life and Apostolic Activity. Chapter Three (Articles 28- 103) focuses on Participation in the Life of the Fraternity, including the organization of Fraternities at local, regional, national and international levels, Franciscan Youth, and Spiritual Assistance.

The organizational structure of the SFO as outlined in the Statutes of the National Fraternity of the SFO in the USA