Third Order is an expression for laity and clergy regardless of their status or other religious affiliations.
Third order Anacletians make a promise to pray the office daily, support the work of the order, and are allowed to participate in General Chapter, retreats, and other Society events.
For those who are ordained, but have no bishop: It is in the third order we support many of the priests who left the institutional Roman, Anglican, Lutheran and other Apostolic Churches by giving them a support structure. Acting as their ‘touchstone’ we give them access to many of the organized services they are used to, but they are allowed to continue their current, individual ministries without interference.
For those who are ordained and have a bishop: The third order expression allows those who are ordained and active in another church and supervised by another bishop to explore Benedictine Spirituality, the Old Catholic movement, and make connections with possible ministerial partners. The third order rule does not require any clergy to submit their ministerial plan to the society, or to ask permission for any work they undertake.
For laity: The third order allows laity to become lay-members of the society and explore Benedictine Spirituality, the Old Catholic movement, and make connections with possible like minded laity.
We offer educational and retreat opportunitites for all third order members, and they are all invited and welcome to join in and participate in our General Chapter.