Current Secular Franciscan Order (OFS)
The Rule of 1978 · 2020 English update
The Current Rule
Paul VI approved this distinct rule for Secular Franciscans on 24 June 1978. Members profess a Franciscan Gospel life while remaining in their secular circumstances. Official Rule, approval letter and article 2.
The OFS-USA edition guide identifies the current English version as the 2020 update. This changed the prologue’s translation and source references; it did not introduce a new rule or change its articles.
Read the Source
The complete official Rule
Read the Rule, its prologue, approval letter, and source notes in the CIOFS PDF.
A Reading Guide
3 chaptersThese are brief summaries, not the rule’s wording. Article numbers refer to the official text.
1 · Belonging · Articles 1–3
The Order belongs to the wider Franciscan family. Its fraternities unite Catholics pursuing this vocation in secular life. Constitutions and statutes apply the Rule.
2 · Daily life · Articles 4–19
Read the Gospel and encounter Christ in people, Scripture, Church, and Eucharist. Practice daily conversion, reconciliation, prayer, and Marian devotion. Fulfil ordinary responsibilities; simplify possessions; welcome others; pursue justice; value work and family; care for creation; cultivate peace, joy, and hope in resurrection.
3 · Fraternity · Articles 20–26
Local fraternities belong to regional, national, and international structures. Elected councils serve members. Admission involves formation and permanent profession. Members gather, pray for the departed, contribute according to their means, and receive spiritual assistance and regular visits.