Third Order Third Order is a traditional name in the Catholic Church for lay people who share in the spirituality and mission of a religious order while living in the world. In simple terms: > The Third Order is made up of lay men and women who live ordinary lives (family, work, profession) but follow the spirituality of a religious order. Origin of the term “Third Order” In many religious families, there are traditionally three groups: 1. First Order – the main religious (usually priests and br