This work offers a complete resource for the thousands of people who are members of the First (male), Second (female) and Third (lay men and women) Associates and friends of Franciscan communities, and all who aspire to embrace the simplicity and joy of Francis in their Christian lives. It includes the stories of Francis and Clare, their Rules of life, a daily office, other Franciscan devotions, the essentials of Franciscan spirituality, living as a Franciscan today, a Franciscan calendar, stories of Franciscan saints, places of pilgrimage and more. Contributors include: Murray Bodo ofm, Bishop John Jukes ofm, Damian Kirkpatirck ssf, Samuel Doble ssf, Frances Teresa osc and others.