The Seraphic Order

Among the early followers of St. Francis of Assisi were saints and masters of the spiritual life who shared both a natural and supernatural kinship with their founder. Through their lives and writings they deepened and articulated the spirituality St. Francis embodied—rooted in simplicity, love, and total conformity to Christ. Their witness brought clarity to the distinctive traits of Franciscan life and became a wellspring for generations of Christians seeking to follow the Seraphic Father.

At the heart of Franciscan spirituality lies a profoundly Christ-centered vision: loving imitation of Christ in His humility, poverty, and self-giving. This Christocentrism expresses itself through devotion to the humanity of Jesus—His Sacred Heart, the Holy Eucharist, and the mysteries of His Nativity and Passion. Franciscan piety is marked by childlike trust in God the Father, deep love of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reverence for the priesthood, and a charity that embraces all people as brothers and sisters, especially the poor and suffering.

The Franciscan spirit thrives in an atmosphere of interior freedom, simplicity, realism, and active love. It values the will and the heart above speculation and makes use of created things as stepping stones to God. It is no surprise that on this path many have reached heroic sanctity.

The Seraphic Order gathers the lives and virtues of these Franciscan saints and teachers, offering not only historical portraits but a practical guide to living the Franciscan way. This volume serves as a clear and inspiring introduction to Franciscan spirituality—its origins, principles, and enduring power to lead souls to God.