The Aims of the Third Order
1. To make our Lord known and loved everywhere
Our
Order believes that it is the commission of the church to make the
gospel known to all by bearing witness to Christ through word and
example in our our daily lives. We remember St. Francis' injunction to
"Preach the gospel at all times, if necessary use words".
2. To spread the spirit of love
and harmony
The
Order sets out, in the name of Christ, to break down barriers between
people and to seek equality for all. We are pledged to fight against
the ignorance, pride and prejudice that breed injustice of partiality
of any kind. We try to live in the spirit of of St. Francis' prayer:
"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace."
3. To live simply
Although
we possess property and earn money to support ourselves and our
families, we show ourselves true followers of Christ and of St.
Francis by our readiness to live simply and to share with others. We
aim to stay free from attachment to wealth, keeping ourselves
constantly aware of the poverty in the world and its claim on us.