Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) was founded by the inspiration and workings of St Francis of Assisi (1182-1226). St. Francis was the founder of three Franciscan orders: the First Order (male, Franciscans – conventuals), the Second Order (female, Poor Clares – after St. Clare) and the Third Order (for the laymen of the world). That is why the SFO was for a long time called "the Third Order of St. Francis", and the members of it "tertiaries". In St. Francis's time and immediately after he passed away those were brothers and sisters who wanted to follow example of St. Francis but to remain in the world. Brothers and sisters (which is how they address and feel about each other) live their togetherness in the concrete: in small fraternities or SFO communities connected with monasteries and parishes. Such communities also have their leadership which includes a so-called spiritual assistant (who is always a priest – Franciscan). Brothers and sisters live the Gospel following example of St. Francis and they do everything to devote themselves to an intense spiritual life. They have their rules, spiritual purpose and means of consecration. They serve in the Church, help their brothers in need and poverty, and try to set an example in their social and familial duties.