In trying to become the persons we were created to be we each keep a Rule of Life, tailored to individual needs, which contains the following main elements:

The Eucharist

Holy Cornmunion is the heart of Prayer, so your worship should include the Eucharist on Sundays and at other tirnes that fit in with your personal lifestyle.

Penitence

Tertiaries are expected to review their lives on a regular basis. They are also asked to remember in their prayers the need for God's forgiveness and healing for both themselves and the world.

Self-denial

This is simply saying 'No' to yourself by putting God first, others next and self last. Often we know our particular weaknesses - these are where we should impose some discipline, e.g. listening instead of talking, getting up in time to say our prayers without hurry, eating or drinking less, the need for exercise.

Retreat

With the ever-increasing speed and pressures of life today we all need to get away at least once a year for a few days to find an opportunity to rest and grow - physically, mentally and spiritually. To make this possible the Third Order organises retreats in local areas. We find these retreats to be times of great renewal.

Study and Reading

As Christians we need to be able to give an answer for the faith we hold and, for this reason, rnembers of the Third Order are encouraged to read not only the Bible itself but other books which help us to know more about God in the church and in the world. You will be asked to set aside time for this purpose each week.

Simplicity

This is the spirit of poverty. Almost every parish has some form of planned giving as part of its life today, in which every committed Christian will wish to share. Giving should include every aspect that you have to offer - your time, your possessions and your money.

Work and Service

Franciscans, like all Christians, dedicate their whole lives to our Lord Jesus Christ, and bring Saint Francis' spirit of humility, love and joy to this dedication. For some in the Third Order this happens in their normal work, but many also undertake service for their local church, charitable or 'gift' work in their fields of interest, or a personal endeavour such as visiting the elderly.

Spiritual Counsel

You will benefit from regular sessions with your spiritual director, who could be a suitable priest or lay person you know and trust. This normally occurs at least twice a year. In the initial stages you will also benefit from sessions with a nominated novice counsellor, who will guide you in your early days with the Third Order.