The Order of Friars Minor (OFM) is made up of friars, who, incorporated into Provinces and Custodies, are governed by the Minister General with his Definitory (council).

The Rule of the Friars Minor confirmed by Pope Honorius III (1223) is the foundation of the Order's life and legislation.

The Federation. The Provinces and Autonomous Custodies are governed respectively by the Minister Provincial and his Definitory, the Custos and his Council, elected in the Provincial or Custodial Chapter.

The Order of Friars Minor is composed of both clerics and lay friars, who, by virtue of their profession of the Franciscan life, enjoy the same rights and are subject to the same duties.