Third Orders – Following a rule of life without taking Solemn vows

Do you feel attracted to a religious order’s way of life but do not feel called to solemnly join the order? Do you want to share your journey through life with like-minded people? Perhaps a third order is an option.

An explanation… Third Orders are lay members of religious orders who follow the the rules for the order and undertake their charism. Any Catholic can join a third order, but you can only be a member of one and you cannot leave without grave reason.

The Code of Canon Law describes third orders as:

“Associations whose members share in the spirit of some religious institute while in secular life, lead an apostolic life, and strive for Christian perfection under the higher direction of the same institute are called third orders or some other appropriate name.” (Can. 303)

In the world and in the order … Unlike religious monks and nuns who live apart from the world, people in third orders stay where they are in the world, embracing the spirit of the order.

Bernard of Bessa, Secretary of St. Bonaventure, said, “The intention of [Secular Franciscans] is to live honorably in their residences and to busy themselves with pious actions and to flee from the vanities of the world.”

The term ‘third order’ was derived in Franciscan circles, with the first order being monks, the second – nuns, and the third – laity. Each in their communities but embracing the precepts of St. Francis.

Examples of third orders in the U.K. include the Third Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Carmelites), Lay Dominicans and the Franciscan Third Order. Oblates are a form of third order that we will explore on the next page.

When looking into third orders, one should discern and choose carefully. And please be aware not all third orders are in full compliance with the Church. If in doubt, make any enquiries direct to a religious house of the order.