Does anyone know the difference between a Franciscan and Dominican order of Priests?

Answer 1

In a nutshell....Franciscans were founded by St. Francis and Dominicans were founded by St. Dominic. Franciscans take a vow of poverty, most Dominicans do not. Both are known for their emphasis on good preaching. As a matter of fact, the official name of the Dominicans is "Order of Preachers" (O.P.)

Answer 2

I'm not sure about what differences are you looking for: their philosophy? their garments? their rules?

Here is a little something to start with:
Both orders are Catholic (although Franciscans are also known in the Anglican Church)

Catholic Franciscan order was founded in the early 1200's by St Francis of Assisi. Men that belong to this order are called Friars.
The modern organization of the Friars Minor now comprises three separate branches: the 'Friars Minor' (OFM); the 'Friars Minor Conventuals' (OFM Conv), and the 'Friars Minor Capuchins' (OFM Cap).
Feminine branch of the order = Clarisses or Poor Clares

Dominican order was founded in the 13th century and they live their lives following 4 values: community life, common prayer, study and service.
Feminine branch of the order = Dominican sisters

Answer 3

In addition to what the last poster said (which was a good answer by the way)

In St Francis's lifetime, his friars had grown into an order dedicated to spiritual ministrations among the poor, the sick, the ignorant, the outcasts of the great cities; while by the very conception of their institute the Dominicans were dedicated to the special work of preaching, especially to heretics and heathens.

Answer 4

Religious orders ('Religious Institutes', cf. canons 573–746) are the major form of consecrated life in the Catholic Church. They are organizations of laity and/or clergy who live a common life following a religious rule under the leadership of a religious superior. Some of these are enclosed monastic orders, others are not. Their intention is to imitate Jesus more closely, mainly, but not exclusively by observing evangelical chastity, poverty and obedience, which are the three evangelical counsels of perfection (cf. canons 599–601). They bind themselves to this form of living by taking public vows in accordance with the norms of church law. They may additionally profess to obey certain guidelines for living, since each order has its peculiar charism. Religious vows are to be distinguished from Holy Orders, the sacrament which bishops, priests, and deacons receive. Hence members of religious orders are not part of the hierarchy, unless they are also ordained priests or deacons (sometimes referred to as "priest-monks" or "hieromonks" - a term more commonly found among the Orthodox than among Roman Catholics).

Answer 5

Hi, try these sites;
www.franciscans.org
www.op.org.