The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order

Fr. Conelio Mota Ramos, OFM and Fr. Zachary Grant, OFM, Cap.

To provide Secular Franciscans of the English-speaking world with a manual containing not only the text but also an explanation of their new rule, we have assembled in one handy volume:

(1) the approval of the rule by Pope John Paul II and other documents which introduced the new rule;

(2) the approved English translation of the rule with a short official commentary in parallel columns;

(3) a catechism which succinctly analyzes and explains the rule in question and answer form;

(4) two series of instructions on the rule, namely six instructions for postulants before their initiation as Secular Franciscans and twelve instructions for novices before their profession of the rule.

The eighteen instructions (Part IV), inasmuch as they are an exposition of the new rule, are suitable also for reading and study by professed members of the Secular Franciscan Order who feel the need of a better understanding of the rule. They will also supply material and suggestions to the spiritual assistants for conferences on the rule.

Another exposition of the new rule of Secular Franciscan Order is contained in the articles which have appeared in the monthly magazine Franciscan Herald, "official organ of the National Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order" (U.S.A.), volumes LVIII (1979) and LIX (1980), especially the serialized "common reflection prepared by the national assistants' commission for commentary on the new rule." Tolle et lege! Take and read!