St. Leonard received a special gift from God, technically called Charism, which is the Greek word for "gift".

God continually lavishes these special charisms on the Church. Every charism is for the good of the whole Church, not for the private or exclusive enjoyment of the receiver.

St. Leonard's charism did not die with him, but continues to flourish in the Church.

It lives today in all those who inspire and model their own lives on the spirit of St. Leonard.

These people, young and old, form the St. Leonard Family.

There are two consecrated - meaning religious or vowed - groups forming the St. Leonard Family: the Congregation of St. Joseph and the Sisters of St. Leonard (Murialdine).

The St. Leonard Family comprises also a Secular Institute, as well as organized groups such as benefactors of the Congregation of St. Joseph or of the Sister of St. Leonard, friends, collaborators.

Anyone who somehow and to whatever degree consciously molds his/her life after the spirituality of St. Leonard, is considered a member of the St. Leonard Family