"Following the Gospel, St. Francis founded his order as a family, a fraternity, with God as the Father of all. In like manner, Mother M. Theresia wanted to see a family spirit among her sisters. This family spirit can only be accomplished, however, if the relationship of the individual to God is rightly ordered. "Prayer unites us with God and brings us closer to Him and love unites us with each other."(Our Form of Life)

St. Francis and Mother M. Theresia fully realized that a loving community is of existential importance for religious life. "In mutually sincere love let us gladly bear each other's weaknesses. The dear Lord has brought us together and He wishes that we sanctify ourselves through love and patience."

Christ with His disciples is the model for our community. His love and kindness should therefore radiate from us to all with whom we live and whom we meet. As members of a family we should be available to one another, exert ourselves to create a harmonious atmosphere, and strive to surpass one another in mutual respect."
(Our Form of Life)

"Through openness and sincere relationships we create that atmosphere of trust which is an indispensable requisite for every religious family. Our foundress repeatedly emphasizes the importance of a loving community: "Above all, let love reign among you. It is the queen of virtues and the soul of religious life. Be of one heart and mind; then all will go well and the most difficult things will become easy.'"(Our Form of Life)

It requires common observance of all the directives, a common lifestyle, our common acceptance and the fulfillment of our duties in order to promote spiritual life and to show loving consideration for our fellow sisters.